44214, Burbank, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44214, Burbank, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.04 percent of residents in 44214 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 5.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44214 (Burbank, Ohio)

The fight against lung cancer demands swift and reliable access to care. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates transportation options for residents of ZIP Code 44214 (Burbank, Ohio), focusing on how easily individuals can reach critical healthcare services. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Burbank, as proximity to specialized medical facilities significantly impacts outcomes. We will explore the landscape of transportation, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of healthcare access within this community.

Burbank, nestled in Wayne County, Ohio, presents a unique challenge. While the community offers a tranquil, rural setting, its location necessitates careful consideration of transportation options for those seeking specialized lung cancer care. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, requiring residents to traverse significant distances.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For residents of 44214, the most common mode of transportation to healthcare will be a personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Burbank to surrounding areas are State Route 3 (SR-3) and U.S. Route 224 (US-224). SR-3 provides a north-south route, while US-224 runs east-west. The condition of these roads, especially during Ohio's harsh winters, directly affects travel times and safety.

Driving to the closest major cancer treatment facilities involves a considerable commute. The Cleveland Clinic, a renowned institution, is approximately a 60-75 minute drive, primarily via US-224 East to Interstate 71 (I-71) North. The journey can be longer during peak traffic hours. Akron, home to Summa Health System, is roughly a 45-60 minute drive, using SR-3 North and US-224 East. These drive times underscore the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for delays impacting timely access to treatment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Critical Considerations**

Public transportation options in 44214 are limited, posing a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) provides some service, but its routes and frequency may not directly serve the specific needs of cancer patients. WCT operates on a demand-response system, requiring advance booking, which could be difficult for urgent appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial. Patients with mobility limitations require accessible transportation to and from appointments. The WCT must provide accessible vehicles, but availability may be restricted, requiring careful planning and coordination. The lack of a robust public transit system highlights the challenges faced by those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for some residents. However, their availability in rural areas like 44214 is not guaranteed. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could also make these services expensive. The reliability of ride-sharing is therefore not a consistent solution.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients requiring assistance. Brands like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or those needing assistance during travel. While these services offer a valuable resource, they can be costly and require advance booking, emphasizing the need for careful planning.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

The Lung Cancer Score for 44214 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal score. The drive times to major cancer centers, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic and weather conditions. The lack of convenient public transit options poses a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles.

The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the picture. While these options offer potential solutions, they are not always readily accessible or affordable. This situation underscores the importance of careful planning and coordination for individuals seeking lung cancer care in Burbank.

**Implications for Moving to Burbank**

For anyone considering moving to Burbank, this Lung Cancer Score highlights the critical importance of evaluating transportation options and healthcare access. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully consider the drive times to specialized treatment centers. The availability of reliable transportation, whether a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing, or the ability to utilize medical transport services, is paramount.

Furthermore, prospective residents should research local support services, such as the Wayne County Health Department, which may offer resources for transportation or assistance with navigating the healthcare system. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of alternative transportation options is crucial for making informed decisions about moving to Burbank.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in 44214 requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transit, including expanded routes and increased frequency, would significantly benefit residents. Partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer discounted transportation options for patients.

Raising awareness about medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those in need would also improve access. Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for 44214 underscores the need for a community-wide effort to address the challenges of healthcare access. This includes advocating for improved transportation infrastructure, supporting local healthcare providers, and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective lung cancer care.