44217, Creston, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44217, Creston, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.19 percent of residents in 44217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 7.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Creston, Ohio (ZIP Code 44217)

Considering a move to Creston, Ohio (ZIP Code 44217)? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access crucial for individuals facing or at risk of this disease. Timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount, and understanding the local transportation landscape is vital. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to help you make an informed decision.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation of transportation accessibility. It highlights the challenges and opportunities in navigating healthcare within and around Creston. This assessment considers the unique needs of lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and mobility limitations. These factors significantly impact their ability to access medical appointments and treatments.

Creston, a small community in Wayne County, presents a unique transportation profile. While offering a peaceful environment, its healthcare access is intertwined with the availability and efficiency of transportation options. The primary focus is on accessing specialized lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical consultations.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Creston. The primary thoroughfare is **State Route 226**, which connects Creston to nearby towns and cities. Accessing larger healthcare facilities in Wooster, approximately 10 miles away, involves a drive primarily along **State Route 226** and then **US Route 250**. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

For more specialized care, such as at the Cleveland Clinic or University Hospitals in Cleveland, a drive of approximately 60-75 miles is necessary. This involves utilizing **US Route 250** to **Interstate 71 (I-71)** North. The drive on I-71 can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Allow for a travel time of 1.5 to 2 hours, factoring in potential delays.

Navigating the local roads requires awareness of seasonal weather conditions. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can significantly impact drive times and road safety, potentially delaying or canceling appointments.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Creston are limited. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) provides public transportation within Wayne County, but service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly in rural areas. The WCT offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service may be an option for local appointments, but it may not be suitable for frequent or time-sensitive trips.

The WCT offers ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, for individuals with disabilities. However, availability may be limited, and advance booking is essential. Contacting the WCT directly to inquire about routes, schedules, and ADA accommodations is crucial.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Creston area, but their availability may be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is risky. The potential for delays or unavailability necessitates having backup transportation plans.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for patients needing assistance. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.

Researching and contacting medical transport providers in advance is essential. Inquire about service areas, pricing, insurance coverage, and availability. Booking appointments with medical transport companies well in advance is recommended to ensure timely transportation.

**Healthcare Access and the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Creston, Ohio, reflects the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation and the limitations of public transit pose potential barriers.

Individuals considering a move to Creston should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Proximity to specialized lung cancer care centers is critical. Factor in drive times, traffic conditions, and the reliability of transportation options.

**Moving to Creston: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Creston requires a balanced perspective. The community offers a slower pace of life and a close-knit atmosphere. However, healthcare access necessitates careful planning and consideration.

Before making a move, research local healthcare providers, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation oncologists. Inquire about their affiliations with hospitals and treatment centers. Understand the transportation options available to access these facilities.

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, a comprehensive assessment of transportation needs is essential. Develop a backup plan that includes multiple transportation options. This may involve relying on family, friends, ride-sharing services, or medical transport.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Creston**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Creston, Ohio, highlights the importance of proactive planning. While Creston offers a desirable lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful consideration. By understanding the transportation landscape, researching available resources, and developing a comprehensive transportation plan, individuals can successfully navigate the challenges and ensure timely access to vital medical care. The decision to move to Creston should be made with a full understanding of the transportation implications and the potential impact on healthcare access.