43717, Belle Valley, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43717, Belle Valley, Ohio is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.17 percent of residents in 43717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 17.24 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43717

The journey to healthcare, a critical lifeline, takes on added significance when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, focuses on transportation accessibility for residents of ZIP Code 43717 (Belle Valley, Ohio), providing insights into navigating the healthcare landscape. Understanding these transportation options is crucial, especially for individuals considering moving to Belle Valley or seeking specialized care.

The primary concern is healthcare access, and the efficiency of transportation directly impacts this. Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent appointments for diagnosis, staging, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care. Therefore, reliable and convenient transportation is paramount. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Belle Valley, a charming village nestled in southeastern Ohio, presents a unique transportation challenge. The primary roadways are crucial for healthcare access. Driving times to major healthcare facilities, like the Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC) in Cambridge, are a key factor.

Traveling to Cambridge, approximately 15 miles away, typically involves navigating **State Route 83**. Traffic flow is generally moderate, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Driving to larger hospitals in Columbus, such as the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, involves a longer journey. This route typically utilizes **Interstate 77** north to **Interstate 70** west. This drive, roughly 100 miles, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The availability of buses and other public transit services directly affects healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive.

The Southeastern Ohio Transportation Agency (SEOTA) provides limited public transit services within the region. However, routes and schedules may not be directly tailored to frequent medical appointments. Access to SEOTA services from Belle Valley is likely to require a transfer, potentially increasing travel time and complexity.

The lack of frequent service and the potential for transfers significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The absence of direct routes to major hospitals and treatment centers poses a considerable challenge for residents.

**ADA Accessibility in Public Transit**

For individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing lung cancer treatment, ADA-compliant transportation is essential. SEOTA, like all public transit agencies, is mandated to provide accessible services. This includes wheelchair lifts, ramps, and designated seating. However, the limited service frequency and the potential for transfers can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are increasingly popular transportation options. However, their availability in rural areas like 43717 is variable. Coverage may be limited, and wait times could be extended. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers.

**Medical Transportation Brands**

Several medical transportation brands serve the region. These services offer varying levels of support, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit. Researching and contacting these providers is crucial for individuals needing reliable and accessible transportation to healthcare appointments.

**Factors Influencing the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score is influenced by several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing accessibility, and the presence of medical transportation services. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare facilities from 43717.

The limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The presence of medical transportation services, however, offers a more accessible option for those who need it.

**Considerations for Moving to Belle Valley**

For individuals considering moving to Belle Valley, the Lung Cancer Score is an essential consideration. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for accessing healthcare, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or undergoing treatment.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of services in the area. Researching medical transportation options and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps in making an informed decision.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Lung Cancer Score for 43717 highlights the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. While the rural location presents transportation limitations, the availability of medical transportation services offers a vital lifeline.

Understanding these transportation options is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Belle Valley. Careful planning and proactive research are essential for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring access to the necessary care. The journey to healthcare should not be an added burden, and this analysis provides critical insights into optimizing transportation for those facing the challenges of lung cancer.