43713, Barnesville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43713, Barnesville, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.35 percent of residents in 43713 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 1.14 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Barnesville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43713)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and effective treatment. For residents of Barnesville, Ohio (ZIP code 43713), **healthcare access** hinges on the ability to navigate the surrounding landscape. This write-up aims to assess the challenges and opportunities presented by the local **transportation** infrastructure, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical services. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions, offering crucial insights for individuals considering **moving to Barnesville** or seeking care within the area.

The primary concern for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis is the timely delivery of care. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact prognosis. Therefore, a robust assessment of **transportation** options is paramount. This evaluation considers the distance to specialized oncology centers, the reliability of available transport, and the accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the hurdles and supports that residents may encounter.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but rather a composite evaluation. It considers factors like drive times, public transit frequency and accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Each aspect is weighted based on its impact on timely access to care. The ultimate score aims to illuminate the practical realities of navigating the **healthcare access** landscape within and around Barnesville.

**Drive Times: The Open Road and Its Challenges**

Barnesville, nestled in rural Belmont County, presents a **transportation** landscape dominated by roadways. The most direct route to specialized oncology services often involves driving. The closest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are located in Wheeling, West Virginia, approximately 30 miles east, and Cambridge, Ohio, about 40 miles west.

Reaching Wheeling typically involves navigating Ohio Route 149, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is around 45 minutes. However, this can easily extend to an hour or more, particularly if weather conditions are unfavorable. The route offers scenic views, but the narrow roads and potential for delays necessitate careful planning.

The journey to Cambridge involves a drive along Interstate 70 (I-70) west. This route is generally faster, with a drive time of approximately one hour. I-70 is a major interstate highway, but traffic can be heavy during rush hour and weekends. This can be particularly problematic for individuals experiencing fatigue or other symptoms related to their condition.

The condition of the roads is a significant factor. Winter weather, common in this region, can render roads treacherous, delaying or even preventing travel. The need for reliable, weather-resistant **transportation** is critical for patients.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public **transportation** options in Barnesville are limited. The Belmont County Transportation Department (BCTD) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available to residents of Belmont County, including those in the 43713 ZIP code. However, it may not always be the most convenient option for urgent medical appointments.

The BCTD operates a fleet of vehicles, some of which are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts. This is crucial for patients with mobility impairments. However, the service's availability is limited, and it may not be able to accommodate all requests, especially during peak times or for long-distance trips.

The lack of frequent or scheduled public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Reliance on the BCTD requires careful planning and coordination, which can add stress and potential delays to the process of seeking medical care. The absence of a robust public **transportation** system is a major challenge.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Barnesville area, though their availability may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The reliability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the availability of drivers. This can be a significant concern for patients needing to get to appointments promptly.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a more specialized option. These services often offer door-to-door transport and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. They may also be equipped to handle medical equipment.

However, medical **transportation** services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited. Patients may need to pre-arrange transport well in advance, which can be challenging in emergency situations or when appointments are scheduled on short notice. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden for patients, adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Considering the factors above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Barnesville (43713) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to major hospitals are manageable under ideal conditions, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic pose significant challenges.

The limited public **transportation** options and the potential for delays in securing ride-sharing or medical transport further complicate **healthcare access**. The cost of medical **transportation** services can be a barrier for some patients.

For individuals **moving to Barnesville** or residing there, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests the following:

* **Prioritize reliable personal transportation:** Owning or having access to a reliable vehicle is essential.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance and arrange **transportation** accordingly.
* **Explore all options:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Consider location:** When choosing a residence, consider proximity to major roadways and hospitals.
* **Advocate for improvement:** Support efforts to improve public **transportation** and expand access to medical services.

The challenges to **healthcare access** in Barnesville highlight the need for comprehensive planning and proactive measures. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the limitations of the **transportation** infrastructure require careful consideration for anyone facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible and reliable **transportation** in ensuring timely and effective medical care.