43760, Mount Perry, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43760, Mount Perry, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.85 percent of residents in 43760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 11.36 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Perry (ZIP Code 43760)

The air in Mount Perry, Ohio, a town nestled in the rolling hills of Perry County (ZIP Code 43760), whispers of quietude and a slower pace of life. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, that serenity is often shattered by the pressing need for timely and effective healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, a crucial factor in healthcare access, to determine a “Lung Cancer Score” for residents of Mount Perry. This score will reflect the challenges and opportunities in navigating the journey to treatment, influencing decisions about moving to Mount Perry.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to travel to appointments. In Mount Perry, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The winding roads, while picturesque, can pose challenges, especially for those undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or mobility issues. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating Ohio State Route 37 and Ohio State Route 13. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours.

For those seeking specialized care, the journey often extends to Zanesville, approximately 20 miles away. This drive, primarily along Ohio State Route 146, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. While manageable for routine check-ups, this travel time can be significant for daily radiation therapy or frequent chemotherapy sessions. The availability of reliable transportation is a paramount concern.

Public transportation options in Perry County are limited. The Muskingum County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are restricted. There are no direct public transit routes from Mount Perry to major medical facilities. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle, further complicating their healthcare access. The MCTA offers ADA-compliant vehicles, but their availability and routes are limited.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, but their presence in Mount Perry is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments could prove unreliable and expensive, creating another barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Ambulance, offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who need medical supervision during transport. These services can be essential for patients undergoing treatment, but their cost can be a significant financial burden. The availability of these services, while present, is not a guaranteed solution for all transportation needs.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Mount Perry (ZIP Code 43760) is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those unable to drive. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further restrict healthcare access. The drive times to major medical centers, while not excessively long, add to the burden of treatment, especially for frequent appointments.

Considering these factors, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Mount Perry can be assessed as “Moderate”. While residents have access to medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of alternative transportation options, the potential for travel delays, and the financial implications of ride-sharing or medical transport services create significant challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Perry, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns requiring frequent medical attention, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. The ability to drive, access to a reliable vehicle, or the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services are crucial considerations.

The journey to healthcare is not simply a physical one; it is a journey through a complex landscape of logistics, finances, and emotional resilience. The “Lung Cancer Score” highlights the importance of carefully evaluating the transportation infrastructure in Mount Perry, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to receiving the care needed.

The availability of support services, such as family members, friends, or community organizations, can significantly alleviate the transportation burden. These support networks can provide rides to appointments, offer emotional support, and help navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

Furthermore, the potential for telehealth services should be considered. Telehealth can provide access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy, reducing the need for travel and improving healthcare access for residents of Mount Perry.

The future of healthcare access in Mount Perry may depend on the development of innovative transportation solutions. This could include expanding public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides, or establishing a community-based transportation program specifically for medical appointments.

Ultimately, the “Lung Cancer Score” serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical facilities; it's about the ability to reach those facilities. For residents of Mount Perry, navigating the transportation landscape is a critical component of their healthcare journey. The journey to healthcare is a complex one, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it is a necessity.