44427, Kensington, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 44427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 44427 (Kensington, Ohio)**

The journey to healthcare is a critical factor in the well-being of any community, especially when considering a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. In the rural landscape of ZIP Code 44427, encompassing the village of Kensington, Ohio, the availability and accessibility of medical care are paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates the challenges and opportunities in transportation to healthcare facilities, vital for residents facing this disease. Considering the significance of early detection and treatment, the ease of reaching specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities directly impacts patient outcomes and quality of life.

Kensington's geographical isolation poses unique transportation hurdles. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. The nearest major healthcare hubs, including hospitals and specialized cancer centers, are located in surrounding cities, requiring travel along specific roadways. Interstate 76 (I-76) and State Route 183 (SR-183) serve as the primary arteries connecting Kensington to larger population centers. Access to I-76 is crucial, providing a faster route to Akron and Cleveland, where advanced medical facilities are concentrated. The drive time to these destinations can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Drive times to major hospitals from Kensington are a crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 45 to 60 minutes via SR-183 and US-30. This travel time, while manageable, can be taxing for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms. The drive to University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, a renowned cancer treatment facility, can take up to two hours, primarily via I-76. This longer commute presents a greater challenge, particularly for those requiring frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options are limited in Kensington and the surrounding areas. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, or those with mobility limitations. There is no established bus route that directly serves Kensington, and the closest public transit options are in larger cities like Canton or Alliance. These routes, operated by the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA), may require multiple transfers and extended travel times, making them impractical for many patients. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present in SARTA's fleet, may not guarantee convenient access from Kensington due to the lack of direct routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent, especially in rural locations. The availability of drivers and the cost of rides can fluctuate, adding an element of uncertainty to healthcare access. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. However, the availability of these services in Kensington and the surrounding area must be carefully assessed. The types of medical transport brands available and the cost of these services are crucial factors.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the impact of healthcare access on the decision-making process for individuals considering moving to Kensington. Potential residents, particularly those with a history of cancer or other chronic illnesses, must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The availability of transportation alternatives, such as ride-sharing or medical transport services, can significantly influence their decision. Understanding the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs associated with personal vehicle travel is essential for informed decision-making.

The lack of readily available healthcare access can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced treatment adherence, and poorer health outcomes. Early detection and timely treatment are critical for improving lung cancer survival rates. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the degree of transportation barriers in the region, helping to identify areas where improvements are needed. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation services.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just about numbers and statistics; it’s about people and their health. It is about ensuring that all residents of Kensington have the opportunity to receive timely and effective medical care, regardless of their transportation challenges. This assessment provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 44427. The goal is to foster a healthier community where individuals facing lung cancer can navigate their treatment journey with greater ease and support.