44235, Homerville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44235, Homerville, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.51 percent of residents in 44235 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 5.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Homerville (ZIP Code 44235)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for residents of Homerville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44235), delves into the critical element of transportation, a crucial factor in determining a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. We will assess the ease of moving to Homerville, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately assigning a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility of vital healthcare resources.

Homerville, nestled in the heart of Portage County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil suburban lifestyle, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The ability to quickly reach specialized oncology services, radiation therapy centers, and supportive care facilities is paramount for optimal patient outcomes. This write-up will serve as a guide for residents and potential newcomers, particularly those considering moving to Homerville, highlighting the practical realities of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Care**

For many Homerville residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this system directly impacts a patient’s ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive follow-up care. Key roadways dictate the flow of traffic to and from healthcare facilities.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Homerville to the wider region is State Route 44. This road provides access to Ravenna, where some basic medical services are available, and further connects to Interstate 76, offering a faster route to Akron and Cleveland. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach Akron, depending on traffic, and closer to an hour to reach Cleveland.

Interstate 76, a vital artery, provides access to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, a critical local resource. This facility offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and some outpatient care, but may not offer the specialized oncology treatments.

Moving westward on I-76 leads to Akron, home to Summa Health System and Akron Children’s Hospital, both offering comprehensive cancer care centers. These facilities, while further away, offer a wider range of specialized services, including radiation oncology and surgical oncology. The drive time to these facilities can range from 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic congestion.

Heading east on I-76, you eventually reach Cleveland. The Cleveland Clinic, a world-renowned medical center, offers cutting-edge cancer treatment and research. However, the commute can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within Cleveland.

Navigating these roadways during peak hours, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly impact drive times. Consider these delays when scheduling appointments and planning transportation. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a factor, with parking fees adding to the overall cost of care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Homerville are limited. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus service throughout Portage County, but its coverage is sparse in Homerville and surrounding areas. The routes are designed primarily for commuting to Kent State University and accessing shopping centers in Ravenna and Kent.

While PARTA does offer some ADA-accessible buses, the frequency of service and the limited route coverage pose significant challenges for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of direct routes to major healthcare facilities in Akron and Cleveland necessitates multiple transfers, adding considerable travel time and complexity.

For individuals reliant on public transit, careful planning is essential. Contacting PARTA directly to inquire about specific routes and schedules is crucial. The availability of accessible bus stops and the potential for long wait times must also be considered. This limitation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Homerville and the surrounding areas may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent trips to and from medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide a more specialized option. Companies like First Transit and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

While medical transportation services can be a valuable resource, their availability and cost should be carefully considered. Contacting these providers in advance to inquire about service areas, fees, and booking procedures is essential. The reliability of these services is critical for ensuring timely access to care.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Homerville (ZIP Code 44235), we can assign a Lung Cancer Score. This score reflects the overall accessibility of healthcare resources for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

Considering the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential variability of ride-sharing services, Homerville receives a moderate score. The drive times to major healthcare facilities in Akron and Cleveland are manageable, but traffic congestion can impact travel times. The lack of robust public transit options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services further limit accessibility.

For individuals considering moving to Homerville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The ability to drive or secure reliable transportation is essential for accessing timely and comprehensive cancer care. Careful planning, including pre-arranging transportation for appointments and understanding the limitations of available services, is vital.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve healthcare access for Homerville residents, several steps can be taken. Increased investment in PARTA, with expanded route coverage and increased frequency of service, would significantly benefit those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability is essential. Educating residents about the available transportation options and providing assistance with booking appointments and arranging transportation could also improve healthcare access.

Finally, supporting the development of telehealth services and expanding the availability of outpatient care within Homerville would reduce the need for frequent travel to distant medical facilities. By addressing these challenges, Homerville can improve the Lung Cancer Score and ensure that residents have access to the critical care they need.