44411, Deerfield, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44411, Deerfield, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.98 percent of residents in 44411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 16.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deerfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 44411)

Deerfield, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Trumbull County, presents a unique landscape for its residents. While the promise of a quieter life and a strong sense of community draws many, particularly those **moving to Deerfield**, the reality of **healthcare access** can be a complex equation. This write-up assesses the **transportation** challenges and opportunities for individuals residing in ZIP code 44411, specifically focusing on their ability to access crucial lung cancer screening and treatment. We will create a "Lung Cancer Score" to help residents, and prospective ones, understand the practicalities of navigating the healthcare system.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, considers the ease with which a resident can reach facilities offering lung cancer screening (low-dose CT scans), diagnostic services (biopsies, bronchoscopies), and treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation). It factors in travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of support services. A higher score indicates better access.

**The Highway to Healthcare: Road Travel**

For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are Interstate 80 (I-80) and State Route 7. I-80, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides the most direct route to larger medical centers. Driving east on I-80, the journey to University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, Ohio, is approximately a 30-minute drive, barring traffic. This facility offers comprehensive cancer care, including screening and treatment.

Heading west on I-80 offers access to the Cleveland Clinic system. The Cleveland Clinic main campus, renowned for its cancer institute, is roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, assuming moderate traffic. The drive involves navigating I-80 to I-480, then onto I-90. The Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a shorter trip, about 50 minutes, via State Route 45 and US-62.

State Route 7, a north-south highway, is another crucial route. Traveling north on Route 7, one can reach Trumbull Regional Medical Center in Warren, Ohio, in about 20 minutes. This hospital offers cancer services, including screening and treatment, and is a more accessible option for many Deerfield residents. South on Route 7, the drive to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is approximately 40 minutes.

The condition of these highways and roads, traffic congestion, and seasonal weather conditions can significantly impact travel times. During winter months, snow and ice can add considerable delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Deerfield area are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) operates in the Youngstown-Warren area, but its routes and frequency are not ideal for accessing healthcare. There is no direct bus service from Deerfield to major medical centers.

The closest WRTA route to Deerfield is likely the Route 81, which runs along State Route 7. However, this route primarily serves local communities and does not offer direct connections to hospitals. Individuals needing to use public transit would likely require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and the potential for missed appointments.

Furthermore, the WRTA's accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, are essential for ADA compliance. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make public transit a less viable option for many.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Deerfield can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-share prices can also fluctuate, making them a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and First Transit, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, they typically require pre-booking and can be subject to availability. The cost of medical transport is often higher than ride-sharing.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Factors and Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 44411 is based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest facilities offering lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Accessibility:** The ease with which individuals with disabilities can access healthcare facilities.
* **Cost:** The overall cost of transportation, including fuel, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport costs.

**The Score:**

Based on the analysis above, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 44411 is moderate. While residents have access to several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit options and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services present challenges.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Personal Vehicles:** Residents should prioritize having access to a personal vehicle.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing:** Familiarize yourself with the availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Research medical transportation options and determine eligibility.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support efforts to expand public transit services in the area.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When **moving to Deerfield**, factor in the distance to healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion:**

Accessing healthcare in Deerfield, Ohio, requires careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. While the area offers access to quality medical facilities, the limited public transit and potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing necessitate proactive measures. Understanding these realities is crucial for residents and those contemplating **moving to Deerfield**, particularly those at risk for lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.