44128, Cleveland, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44128, Cleveland, Ohio is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.46 percent of residents in 44128 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center with a distance of 2.71 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44128

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, transcends medical treatment. It encompasses the practical realities of transportation, the accessibility of medical facilities, and the emotional toll of navigating a complex system. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP code 44128, provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for individuals considering moving to Cleveland, as it directly affects their ability to receive timely and effective care.

ZIP code 44128, primarily encompassing the suburb of Garfield Heights, Ohio, presents a unique transportation profile. Its proximity to Cleveland offers advantages, yet challenges exist in terms of healthcare access, especially for those battling lung cancer. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing crucial medical services, including oncology appointments, radiation therapy, and diagnostic imaging.

**Driving the Landscape: Highways and Roads**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in 44128 are the major highways that dissect and border the area. Interstate 480, a crucial east-west route, offers direct access to several major hospitals. Heading west on I-480 provides access to University Hospitals Parma Medical Center, a regional healthcare provider. Traveling east on I-480 leads to the Cleveland Clinic's main campus, a nationally recognized center for cancer care.

Another vital thoroughfare is Interstate 77, running north-south and providing access to downtown Cleveland and its concentration of medical facilities. The drive to the Cleveland Clinic via I-77, while typically a short commute, can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Local roads, such as Garfield Boulevard and Turney Road, serve as essential connectors to these highways and to local medical offices. These roads, while often less congested than the interstates, can experience delays during rush hour and are subject to weather-related disruptions.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) provides public transportation within 44128. Several bus routes serve the area, offering connections to downtown Cleveland and various healthcare facilities. Route 9, a key artery, connects Garfield Heights to the RTA's Red Line rapid transit, providing a direct route to the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals.

Accessibility is a critical factor. The GCRTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses and stations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, route frequency and travel times can impact healthcare access. Waiting times, transfers, and the overall duration of a public transit journey can be significantly longer than a car commute, potentially posing a challenge for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing fatigue.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. Their availability in 44128 is generally good, providing on-demand access to transportation. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments, and may be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide a crucial service. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit due to their medical condition. However, availability and scheduling may require advance planning.

**Healthcare Access: The Core of the Score**

The Lung Cancer Score is not simply a reflection of transportation options; it's a measure of their impact on healthcare access. This encompasses the ease of reaching key medical facilities, the affordability of transportation, and the overall time commitment required for appointments.

The proximity of 44128 to major hospitals, including the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals, is a significant advantage. The presence of multiple transportation options, including highways, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, provides flexibility. However, the reliance on highways, which can be subject to traffic, and the potential limitations of public transit, particularly for patients with mobility issues, create challenges.

**Scoring the Factors**

The Lung Cancer Score will consider several factors:

* **Proximity to Hospitals:** The closer the hospital, the better the score.
* **Highway Accessibility:** Ease of access to major highways is a positive factor.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence of frequent and accessible public transit routes is beneficial.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services are considered.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability of specialized medical transportation services is crucial.
* **Traffic Congestion:** The potential for traffic delays, particularly during peak hours, is a negative factor.
* **Overall Travel Time:** The total time required to travel to healthcare facilities is a key consideration.
* **Accessibility Features:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is crucial.

**The Lung Cancer Score for 44128**

Based on the analysis, the Lung Cancer Score for 44128 is moderately favorable. The area benefits from its proximity to major hospitals and a range of transportation options. However, the reliance on highways, potential traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit for some individuals create challenges.

**Recommendations**

* **For Residents:** Prioritize healthcare facilities accessible via I-480 and I-77. Explore public transit options, particularly routes connecting to the Red Line. Utilize ride-sharing services for appointments, and consider medical transportation if mobility is a concern.
* **For Individuals Moving to Cleveland:** Carefully assess the transportation options available in 44128. Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and the potential impact of traffic congestion. Factor in the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and the need for medical transportation.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for residents of 44128 and those considering moving to Cleveland. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of their healthcare journey with greater confidence. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring timely and effective care, ultimately improving the quality of life for those facing the challenges of lung cancer.