44048, Kingsville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44048, Kingsville, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.51 percent of residents in 44048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashtabula County Medical Center with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44048)

Kingsville, Ohio, a charming community nestled in Ashtabula County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This assessment, tailored for residents and prospective newcomers, delves into the intricacies of transportation infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and the overall ease of navigating the healthcare landscape, ultimately aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility of vital services. This score will consider the time and effort required to reach crucial medical appointments, factoring in various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and highlighting potential barriers to care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Kingsville lies in its transportation network. The primary mode of transit for most residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The area is primarily served by **Interstate 90 (I-90)**, a major east-west artery, providing relatively swift access to larger medical centers in Cleveland, approximately an hour's drive west. **State Route 193** and **State Route 84** serve as crucial north-south and east-west connectors, respectively, linking Kingsville to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to appointments.

Moving to Kingsville, prospective residents should carefully consider the impact of seasonal weather conditions on transportation. Winter in Northeast Ohio can bring heavy snowfall and icy road conditions, significantly increasing travel times and potentially hindering access to healthcare. The availability of reliable vehicles, equipped with appropriate tires and safety features, becomes paramount during these months. Furthermore, individuals with mobility limitations may find it challenging to navigate snow-covered sidewalks and parking lots, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in the area are limited but still present. The **Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA)** does not directly serve Kingsville, leaving residents with few public transit options. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation providers. This lack of robust public transit represents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or prefer not to drive. The absence of accessible public transit options also disproportionately impacts seniors and individuals with disabilities, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative to personal vehicles, although their availability and cost can vary depending on demand and location. While ride-sharing can provide a convenient option for short trips, the cost can quickly escalate for longer journeys to Cleveland or other regional healthcare centers. Individuals with limited financial resources may find ride-sharing services unaffordable, further exacerbating healthcare access challenges.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including **Medicaid-approved transportation services** and private companies. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. However, availability may be limited, and booking appointments in advance is often necessary.

The primary healthcare facilities serving Kingsville residents include local clinics and smaller hospitals in surrounding towns. **University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center**, located approximately 15 minutes away, offers a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and some specialized treatments. For more comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostics, surgery, and radiation therapy, residents often travel to **Cleveland Clinic** or **University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center** in Cleveland. These facilities are renowned for their expertise in lung cancer treatment but require a significantly longer commute.

The distance to specialized cancer care centers in Cleveland presents a major challenge for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care can place a significant burden on patients and their families, both financially and emotionally. The extended travel times can also lead to increased fatigue and stress, potentially impacting treatment outcomes.

The availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs, is crucial for individuals navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. While some of these services may be available locally, others may require travel to Cleveland or other regional centers. The ability to access these support services can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

Considering the factors discussed above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Kingsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44048) reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present significant challenges. The distance to specialized cancer care centers in Cleveland and the potential for increased travel times during inclement weather further complicate healthcare access. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers, coupled with the presence of local healthcare facilities, provides some mitigating factors.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Kingsville, Ohio (44048) is a 6 out of 10.** This score reflects the moderate level of healthcare access, with room for improvement in public transportation, specialized care proximity, and the availability of comprehensive support services. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should carefully consider these factors when making decisions about moving to Kingsville. The community's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and expanding access to healthcare services will be crucial in enhancing the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents have timely access to the care they need.