44149, Strongsville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44149, Strongsville, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.11 percent of residents in 44149 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest General Health Center with a distance of 3.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44149

Considering a move to Strongsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44149)? Beyond the allure of suburban tranquility, a crucial factor in your decision should be healthcare access, especially if you're concerned about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to vital medical facilities. This score is not a definitive medical evaluation, but a practical guide to understanding the ease of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view of transportation accessibility for individuals needing specialized lung cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

Strongsville's location offers both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. Proximity to major highways is a definite plus. The primary route to Cleveland Clinic's main campus, a leading center for lung cancer treatment, is via Interstate 71 (I-71) North. The drive, typically taking 25-40 minutes, is subject to traffic, especially during peak hours. Accessing the Cleveland Clinic's Avon Hospital, located west of Strongsville, is quicker, around 15-20 minutes via I-90 West and the Chester Road exit.

Another crucial facility, University Hospitals (UH) Seidman Cancer Center, is accessible via I-71 North, though the drive is slightly longer, potentially 35-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Local roads like Pearl Road (State Route 42) offer alternative routes, but they are often slower due to traffic lights and congestion. Accessing smaller, community-based hospitals and specialized clinics within the Cleveland area can also be achieved via these main arteries and connecting roads, such as the Ohio Turnpike (I-80).

**Public Transit: Navigating the RTA Landscape**

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides public transportation options, though their coverage in Strongsville is less extensive than in the city of Cleveland. The 83-Pearl-West 130th bus route offers service along Pearl Road, a major thoroughfare. However, this route primarily serves local destinations and does not directly connect to major hospitals.

For access to the Cleveland Clinic or UH, a transfer to other RTA lines might be necessary, requiring a combination of bus rides and potentially the use of the Rapid Transit (Red Line or Blue/Green Lines). This can significantly increase travel time, potentially exceeding an hour or more, depending on the destination and transfer points. The RTA offers ADA-accessible buses and trains, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the multiple transfers and longer travel times can be a significant hurdle for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Mobility**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Strongsville. They offer a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative to driving or public transit. The cost of a ride to Cleveland Clinic or UH can vary significantly depending on the time of day and demand. These services are particularly useful for individuals unable to drive or who prefer not to navigate traffic.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility or assistance with mobility. However, these services typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent situations.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Breakdown and Considerations**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 44149 is moderately positive. While the proximity to major highways provides relatively quick access to hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can be a disadvantage for those without access to a car or facing financial constraints. Public transit, while available, is less convenient and can significantly increase travel time, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

**Scoring Factors:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Access to major hospitals is relatively quick, but traffic can impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. RTA service is available, but direct routes to hospitals are lacking, requiring transfers and increasing travel time.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Accessible. Uber and Lyft provide convenient options, but costs can be a factor.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Specialized services offer door-to-door transportation, but advance booking is required.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Consider your ability to drive, the availability of a vehicle, and your financial resources for ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Evaluate insurance coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers transportation costs, especially for medical appointments.
* **Research hospital locations:** Determine the proximity of hospitals and specialized cancer centers to your potential residence.
* **Explore alternative transportation options:** Investigate the availability of volunteer driver programs or community transportation services.
* **Consider the impact of treatment:** Factor in the potential side effects of treatment, such as fatigue or nausea, which can affect your ability to drive.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to Strongsville offers numerous benefits, but healthcare access is a critical consideration. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating transportation options, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs and circumstances. By understanding the available resources and potential challenges, you can ensure that you have access to timely and effective lung cancer care. The decision to relocate should always prioritize your health and well-being, and a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount.