44035, Elyria, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44035, Elyria, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.04 percent of residents in 44035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.16 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44035**

The breath of life, a precious gift, can be threatened by the insidious grip of lung cancer. Early detection and swift treatment are paramount, making access to quality healthcare a matter of survival. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Elyria, Ohio (ZIP Code 44035), assessing the accessibility of lung cancer healthcare, a critical factor for those considering moving to Elyria or already residing within its borders. We will evaluate the transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately constructing a "Lung Cancer Score" to reflect the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services.

The primary artery of Elyria, Interstate 90 (I-90), offers a direct route east and west, connecting residents to major medical centers. Traveling west on I-90, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic, brings you to the University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center, a crucial healthcare hub. This hospital, with its comprehensive cancer care facilities, is a beacon of hope for those battling lung cancer. Heading east on I-90, the journey extends to Cleveland Clinic facilities, including the main campus, requiring a drive of roughly 30-45 minutes, dependent on traffic flow. These are vital destinations for specialized treatment.

State Route 2 (SR-2), a major east-west thoroughfare, provides an alternative to I-90, offering slightly shorter distances to local hospitals, but often with increased congestion. The drive to University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center via SR-2 is usually about 10-15 minutes, while the trip to Cleveland Clinic facilities might extend to 40-50 minutes. The accessibility of these routes is paramount, ensuring that residents can navigate to essential appointments and treatments.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation becomes crucial. The Lorain County Transit (LCT) operates several routes serving Elyria. Route 1, for example, travels along a north-south axis, potentially connecting residents to hospitals. Route 3 and Route 4, with their east-west trajectories, offer access to various medical facilities, including those on the east and west sides of the city. The LCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, a critical consideration for those undergoing lung cancer treatment. However, the frequency of service and the potential for delays can impact the overall score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to public transit or personal vehicles. These services are readily available in Elyria, providing a direct route to healthcare facilities. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments and treatments. The availability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours and for individuals with limited financial resources, is another element impacting the final score.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering door-to-door service and assistance. These services are particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or have complex medical requirements. While these services offer a high level of convenience and support, they often come with a higher price tag, which can pose a financial burden.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will take into account the following factors: the distance and travel time to major cancer treatment centers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence and affordability of ride-sharing services, the availability of medical transport, and the overall traffic conditions. The score will be a composite measure, reflecting the ease with which residents of 44035 can access crucial lung cancer healthcare.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 44035 is moderately favorable. The presence of I-90 and SR-2 provides relatively quick access to major medical facilities, including University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic facilities. The LCT offers a public transportation option, with ADA-compliant buses, but the frequency and route coverage could be improved. Ride-sharing services are available, providing convenient transportation, but the cost can be a barrier. Medical transport services are available for those who need them, but their cost further impacts the overall score.

Considering the ease of transportation, the availability of healthcare, and the overall cost, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 44035 is a 7 out of 10. The score indicates that residents of Elyria have reasonable access to healthcare facilities, but improvements in public transportation, ride-sharing affordability, and the availability of medical transport options could significantly enhance the score. For those considering moving to Elyria, this score offers a valuable insight into the ease of accessing healthcare, a crucial factor in their decision-making process.

The journey with lung cancer is arduous, and access to timely and effective healthcare is paramount. The transportation infrastructure in Elyria, Ohio, provides a foundation for accessing vital medical services. While improvements are always welcome, the current landscape allows residents to navigate the healthcare system with a reasonable degree of ease, ensuring that they can focus on their health and well-being. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the accessibility of healthcare, providing a vital perspective for those living in or considering moving to Elyria, Ohio.