44272, Rootstown, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44272, Rootstown, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.90 percent of residents in 44272 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 6.16 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Rootstown, Ohio. Nestled in the heart of Portage County, this community offers a blend of rural charm and accessibility, attracting families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle. However, when considering a move, especially for those with health concerns, the crucial factor of healthcare access demands careful scrutiny. This write-up, designed to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, delves into the intricacies of transportation and healthcare options within and around ZIP code 44272, guiding potential residents through the landscape of care.

For individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer, timely access to specialized medical care is paramount. This score considers the ease with which residents can reach diagnostic facilities, treatment centers, and supportive services. It examines the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities. The goal is to empower prospective residents to make informed decisions, ensuring their healthcare needs are met with minimal disruption.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Rootstown, and indeed much of America, is the automobile. For residents of 44272, the primary routes to healthcare facilities are dictated by the local road network. Traveling eastward, State Route 44 provides a direct link to Ravenna, home to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center, a critical healthcare hub. The drive, typically taking around 10-15 minutes, offers relatively smooth passage, though rush hour traffic can extend travel times.

Heading west, State Route 224 offers another avenue to healthcare. This route leads to the city of Kent, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, where residents can access various medical specialists and facilities. The journey along Route 224 is generally straightforward, though drivers should be mindful of potential congestion near Kent State University. These two state routes, 44 and 224, are vital arteries connecting Rootstown residents to crucial healthcare services.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus services within Portage County. However, service frequency and route coverage in Rootstown are limited. While PARTA does offer routes that connect to Ravenna and Kent, the travel times can be significantly longer than driving, often exceeding 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination and transfer requirements.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. PARTA strives to provide accessible transportation, but it's essential to confirm the availability and suitability of specific routes for individual needs. Planning trips in advance and contacting PARTA directly to inquire about accessibility features is highly recommended. The limitations of public transit highlight the dependence on alternative transportation for many Rootstown residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. While these services are generally available in Rootstown, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. Individuals relying on ride-sharing should factor in potential wait times and the financial implications.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, offering specialized transportation options. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. However, medical transport can be costly, and advance booking is usually required.

When assessing healthcare access, the distance to specialized care is critical. For lung cancer patients, this includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and surgical specialists. The University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna offers a range of services, including oncology care. However, for more specialized treatments, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further afield.

Cleveland Clinic, located approximately an hour's drive north via the Ohio Turnpike (Interstate 80), provides a comprehensive cancer center with cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach. The drive along the Turnpike is generally efficient, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. The journey to Cleveland Clinic underscores the importance of considering travel time when evaluating healthcare options.

The Akron area, accessible via State Route 44 or the Ohio Turnpike, also offers healthcare facilities. Summa Health System, with its cancer center, provides another option for treatment. The travel time to Akron is typically between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The availability of multiple healthcare providers in the surrounding areas offers patients a degree of choice and flexibility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Rootstown, 44272, is influenced by several factors. The proximity to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center provides a solid foundation of local healthcare. However, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services introduce potential challenges. The need to travel to Cleveland or Akron for specialized care adds to the complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Rootstown, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of using ride-sharing or medical transport services. Investigating the specific services offered by local hospitals and cancer centers is also crucial.

The availability of support services, such as cancer support groups and palliative care, is also an important consideration. These services can provide emotional support and practical assistance to patients and their families. The proximity to these resources can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

Moving to Rootstown presents a unique set of considerations for those seeking access to healthcare. The community's rural character offers a peaceful environment, but the transportation infrastructure requires careful evaluation. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, residents can ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a framework for this assessment, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their future in Rootstown.