43771, Philo, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43771, Philo, Ohio is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.61 percent of residents in 43771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 10.61 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Philo, Ohio (ZIP Code 43771)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Philo, Ohio, a small community nestled along the Muskingum River. For those considering a move to this corner of Appalachia, especially individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities, a vital component of any comprehensive healthcare plan.

Our analysis centers on ZIP Code 43771, encompassing Philo and its surrounding areas. The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities for accessing specialized lung cancer care. The score evaluates the transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport, painting a realistic picture for potential residents.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Philo is the ability to reach medical facilities. The primary route for accessing care involves personal vehicles. The nearest major medical centers offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment are located in Zanesville, approximately 10 to 15 miles away. This drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The most direct route involves taking **Ohio Route 60** south, a well-maintained two-lane highway that offers relatively smooth passage.

Alternatively, residents might opt for **Ohio Route 77**, which provides a slightly longer, but often less congested, route to Zanesville. For those residing in the more remote areas of the ZIP code, the drive might involve navigating smaller, winding county roads, such as **County Road 14** or **County Road 4**, adding time and potential stress to the journey. Understanding these routes is crucial for anyone considering moving to Philo, especially those with existing health concerns.

Public transportation options are limited in Philo. The Muskingum County Transit (MCT) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While MCT provides transportation throughout Muskingum County, its availability and frequency might be a significant hurdle for regular appointments or urgent care needs. The routes are not fixed, and the service is not specifically tailored for medical transportation.

The MCT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the scheduling process and potential wait times can be a significant factor for individuals requiring frequent medical attention. The lack of fixed routes and the need for advance booking necessitates careful planning for those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, but their presence in Philo is less consistent. Availability might fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is risky, as delays or cancellations could disrupt critical treatment schedules. The reliability of ride-sharing services must be carefully assessed before moving to Philo.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region, catering to individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door transport and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve associated costs, adding to the overall expense of healthcare access.

Companies like **CareRide** and **MedRide** operate in the area. These companies specialize in transporting patients with medical needs, ensuring safe and reliable transport. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, the type of assistance required, and the specific provider. It is essential to research and compare the services offered by different NEMT providers to find the best fit for individual needs and financial constraints.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Philo, Ohio, reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. The primary challenge is the limited availability of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive to Zanesville for specialized care is manageable but requires careful planning. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services further complicates the situation.

The opportunities lie in the accessibility of the healthcare facilities in Zanesville, the availability of medical transportation services, and the relative proximity of the major medical centers. The key to navigating the healthcare landscape successfully is proactive planning. Potential residents should research the specific transportation options available, assess their individual needs, and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Philo with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory issues, a thorough evaluation of the transportation landscape is essential. This includes assessing the feasibility of driving, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Philo, Ohio, is not a definitive judgment but a call for informed decision-making. The quality of life in Philo, with its scenic beauty and close-knit community, is undeniable. However, prospective residents must balance these advantages with the practical considerations of healthcare access, particularly the crucial element of transportation. This assessment aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare access landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being when moving to Philo. The journey to healthcare, like the journey of life, requires careful planning and a willingness to adapt to the realities of the road ahead.