43804, Baltic, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43804, Baltic, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.36 percent of residents in 43804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coshocton Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.56 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Baltic, Ohio (ZIP Code 43804)**

The quaint village of Baltic, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Amish Country, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. A crucial factor in survival and quality of life is timely access to diagnostic services, treatment, and ongoing care. This analysis explores the transportation infrastructure within and surrounding ZIP Code 43804, evaluating its impact on healthcare access for residents and potential newcomers. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities related to transportation.

The primary mode of transportation in Baltic is the personal vehicle. The village itself is small, and most local destinations are easily accessible by car. However, the nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities involves navigating a network of highways and rural roads.

For residents of Baltic seeking advanced care, the drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is approximately 45 miles. This journey primarily utilizes **State Route 93**, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. The road then merges with **Interstate 77**, a major north-south artery, offering a faster but often congested passage to Canton. The total drive time, under ideal conditions, is about an hour, but this can easily extend due to traffic, weather, or road construction.

Another option is to access the Cleveland Clinic, a renowned medical center, located approximately 90 miles away. This trip involves traveling on **State Route 93** to **State Route 21**, then connecting to **Interstate 77** north. The drive time to Cleveland is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a more significant commitment in terms of time and potential fatigue for patients undergoing treatment. This extended travel time can impact the ability to attend regular appointments and access supportive care services.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. There is no established public bus system operating within Baltic or connecting it directly to major healthcare facilities. The absence of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, those with mobility limitations, or those who cannot drive due to medical conditions.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, is also limited in Baltic. While these services may be available, their presence is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for long-distance trips to hospitals in Canton or Cleveland, can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those already facing medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, availability can be limited, and booking in advance is essential. The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required, potentially adding to the overall financial strain on patients.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It also affects the ability to participate in support groups, access rehabilitation services, and receive palliative care. The stress of long commutes can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis.

For individuals considering moving to Baltic, Ohio, or for current residents, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to evaluate. Those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk should consider the challenges of accessing specialized care. The lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services represent significant barriers.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Baltic, Ohio, reflects the complex interplay of transportation and healthcare access. The score is influenced by several factors: the distance to specialized cancer centers, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation. The score also considers the potential impact of transportation on the patient's physical and emotional well-being.

The score would be lower for Baltic than a city with robust public transit and readily available medical services. The score would be higher for individuals who have reliable transportation, such as a personal vehicle or access to a supportive network of family and friends who can provide rides.

The absence of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services pose challenges. The long distances to major medical centers in Canton and Cleveland can be stressful and time-consuming.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Baltic, Ohio, should prompt a thoughtful evaluation of healthcare access. Prospective residents and current inhabitants alike must carefully consider the transportation options available and how they might impact their ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. The decision to move to or remain in Baltic should be informed by a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare.