43719, Bethesda, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43719, Bethesda, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.92 percent of residents in 43719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 6.12 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation & Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 43719**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment plan demands more than just medical expertise; it requires reliable and efficient transportation to healthcare facilities. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 43719 (Barnesville, Ohio), focusing on its impact on healthcare access for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. We consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers, providing a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. The goal is to understand the challenges and opportunities for patients needing to access critical oncology services.

The 43719 ZIP code, nestled in rural Belmont County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is characterized by rolling hills and a sparse population, which influences transportation infrastructure. This geographical reality shapes the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those with mobility limitations or undergoing intensive treatments. The Lung Cancer Score considers these factors, aiming to provide a realistic picture of the transportation burden.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in 43719. Accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel to larger cities like Wheeling, West Virginia, or Columbus, Ohio. The primary roadways serving the area are State Route 800, State Route 149, and Interstate 70.

Traveling to Wheeling, approximately 30 miles east, typically involves taking State Route 149 and then connecting to Interstate 70. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take around 45 minutes to an hour. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or due to construction, can significantly extend travel times. Winter weather, common in this region, can further complicate matters, leading to delays and safety concerns.

Columbus, a more distant destination (roughly 120 miles), is reached via Interstate 70 West. This journey can take approximately two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic. While Interstate 70 provides a relatively direct route, the long distance increases the potential for fatigue and the need for rest stops, which can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment.

The condition of local roads, including State Route 800 and State Route 149, also impacts travel times. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience wear and tear, especially during winter. This can lead to slower speeds and increased risk of accidents. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities in both Wheeling and Columbus must also be considered.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit options in 43719 are limited. The Southeastern Ohio Transportation Agency (SEOTA) provides some public transportation services in the region. However, the routes and frequency are often insufficient to meet the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

SEOTA operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This system is available to residents of Belmont County, including 43719. However, the limited operating hours and the need for advance booking can pose significant challenges for patients with unpredictable treatment schedules or those requiring urgent care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SEOTA vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible vehicles and the ability to book them on short notice can be a concern. The lack of fixed-route bus services further complicates matters, as patients must rely on the demand-response system, which may not always be available when needed.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as robust as in more urban areas. Availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. This unreliability can be a significant obstacle for patients who need to schedule appointments or require transportation at short notice.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. Several companies operate in the region, providing services ranging from basic transportation to advanced medical care during transit.

Medicaid and Medicare often cover medical transportation services for eligible patients. However, the availability of covered services and the approval process can be complex. Patients need to navigate the insurance system and ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for medical transport.

**Medical Transport Providers**

Several medical transport providers serve the 43719 area. These include:

* **MedExpress:** Offers urgent care and some transportation services.
* **CareRide Medical Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation.
* **First Call Medical Transportation:** Offers a range of transportation options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

These providers offer a variety of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, stretcher transport, and ambulatory services. The availability of these services and the ability to book them on short notice can be a critical factor in healthcare access.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" & Recommendations**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 43719 reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors. It assesses the challenges patients face in accessing lung cancer care, considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of medical transport services.

The score for 43719 is moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural transportation. The area's reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, the complexities of insurance coverage and the need for advance planning can still pose challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for increased funding and expanded routes for SEOTA, focusing on connecting 43719 with major healthcare centers in Wheeling and Columbus.
* **Improve Ride-Sharing Availability:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area, especially during off-peak hours and in remote locations.
* **Streamline Medical Transport Access:** Simplify the process for patients to access and secure medical transportation services, including assistance with insurance coverage and pre-authorization.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.
* **Community Education:** Educate the community about available transportation resources, insurance coverage options, and the importance of early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

**Moving to Bethesda:**

For individuals considering moving to Bethesda, Maryland, to access specialized lung cancer care, the transportation landscape is vastly different. Bethesda benefits from its proximity to Washington, D.C., and the availability of robust public transit, including the Washington MetroMetropolitan Area TransitWashington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metro system. This offers convenient access to healthcare facilities, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center, a leading center for cancer research and treatment.

The proximity to major airports, such as Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), also facilitates travel for patients and their families. The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Bethesda would be significantly higher than for 43719, reflecting the superior transportation infrastructure and healthcare access.

The challenges in 43719 highlight the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all patients, regardless of their location, can access the care they need. The strategies outlined above can help improve healthcare access for lung cancer patients in this rural Ohio community, ensuring that they can focus on their treatment and recovery.