44243, Kent, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44243, Kent, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.12 percent of residents in 44243 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 5.27 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44243

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, a constant companion for those contemplating a move to Kent, Ohio, ZIP code 44243. This score, designed to assess lung cancer healthcare access, considers the intricate web of transportation options that define the daily lives of residents. It's a vital aspect of healthcare access, a critical consideration when evaluating the area's suitability. The journey to medical care, particularly for a disease as complex as lung cancer, demands careful planning and an understanding of the available resources.

For those considering a move, this score offers a comprehensive overview, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare facilities. This includes the drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options, all of which are crucial for timely and effective treatment. The goal is to illuminate the path to care, providing clarity and empowering informed decisions about health and well-being in Kent.

The heart of 44243 beats along the arteries of roadways, with **Interstate 76 (I-76)** and **State Route 43** serving as the primary conduits for travel. Accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals and cancer centers. From the center of Kent, a drive to the Cleveland Clinic, a leading cancer center, typically takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey unfolds primarily along I-76 West, transitioning onto I-77 North.

Alternatively, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland presents another viable option. The drive time is similar, utilizing I-76 West and I-480 West, potentially offering a slightly different route and traffic pattern. The proximity of these major medical institutions provides a significant advantage for residents of 44243, ensuring access to advanced treatment options. The ease of transportation is paramount in these situations, and the infrastructure facilitates this.

Traveling south to Akron, Ohio, the location of Summa Health System, offers another option for lung cancer care. This journey, primarily along State Route 43 South and I-76 West, can be completed in approximately 20-30 minutes. This proximity provides a convenient alternative, particularly for routine appointments or follow-up care. The shorter travel time can significantly reduce stress and improve the overall patient experience.

Public transportation, a cornerstone of healthcare access for many, presents a mixed bag in 44243. The **Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA)** provides bus service, offering a limited network within the county. The primary route serving Kent is the **Route 11**, which connects to the Akron Metro system. However, this route operates with limited frequency, particularly on weekends, and may not always align with the demands of medical appointments.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. PARTA strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts. However, the reliance on a single bus line and the potential for long wait times can pose challenges, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment. The complexities of public transportation in this area highlight the importance of considering all available options.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a more flexible alternative. These services can be readily accessed in Kent, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments or long-distance travel. It is important to factor in these expenses when evaluating the overall cost of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **MedTrans**, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with specific medical needs. While these services can provide valuable support, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

When considering a move to Kent, the availability of transportation options is a crucial factor. The drive times to major cancer centers, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions. Public transit, while present, has limitations in terms of frequency and accessibility. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer more flexible alternatives but come with associated costs.

The healthcare landscape in 44243 is a tapestry woven with threads of accessibility and challenges. The drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options all play a role in the overall Lung Cancer Score. Moving to Kent requires a nuanced understanding of these factors to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively. The journey to healthcare is a critical aspect of the overall quality of life.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for 44243 is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. The availability of multiple transportation options, from highways to ride-sharing, provides a degree of resilience. However, the limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness. The journey to healthcare in this ZIP code is a testament to the importance of considering all available options.