44436, Lowellville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44436, Lowellville, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.89 percent of residents in 44436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mh St Joseph Warren Hospital with a distance of 16.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lowellville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44436)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of autumn in Lowellville, Ohio, a village nestled along the Mahoning River. For residents of ZIP Code 44436, the crisp air also carries the weight of health concerns, particularly the specter of lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** for individuals in Lowellville, specifically focusing on **transportation** options to medical facilities capable of diagnosing and treating lung cancer. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced understanding for residents and those **moving to Lowellville**.

Lowellville, a small community, presents unique challenges in **healthcare access**. The village's location, while picturesque, necessitates reliance on external resources for specialized medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the realities of navigating this landscape, considering the critical importance of timely access to care in the face of a potential lung cancer diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are paramount, making the efficiency and reliability of **transportation** options a matter of life and death.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Lowellville residents is the automobile. The nearest hospitals capable of comprehensive lung cancer care are located in Youngstown, Ohio, a short drive away. The most direct route typically involves traveling north on State Route 289, a relatively straightforward artery. From there, drivers can connect to Interstate 680, offering a faster, though potentially congested, path to Youngstown's medical centers.

A drive to Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The journey primarily utilizes I-680, making it a relatively easy commute for those living in Lowellville.

Another significant option is the Cleveland Clinic's main campus in Cleveland, Ohio. This trip presents a significantly longer commute, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-680 North to I-80 West. This extended drive time, while offering access to world-class facilities, introduces challenges for frequent appointments and urgent situations. This longer journey underscores the importance of considering the proximity of specialized care when assessing **healthcare access** for those living in Lowellville.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in Lowellville are limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus services within the Youngstown area. However, direct routes from Lowellville to major hospitals are nonexistent. Residents would likely need to utilize a combination of routes, potentially requiring a transfer and adding significant time to the journey.

The WRTA system is generally considered ADA accessible, with features like ramps and lifts on most buses. However, the infrequent service and circuitous routes make public transit a less viable option for individuals needing timely access to cancer care. The lack of convenient public **transportation** highlights a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Youngstown area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. The availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. While offering a convenient option, the cost of frequent rides for appointments and treatments can be a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedExpress and various private ambulance companies, are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are often covered by insurance, but pre-authorization may be required. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability and response times of these services can vary, potentially delaying access to critical care.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **MedExpress:** Offers medical transportation services, including non-emergency transport.
* **Various Private Ambulance Companies:** Several private companies provide ambulance services, including emergency and non-emergency medical transport.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" in Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lowellville (44436) considers these factors: Drive times to major hospitals are relatively short, offering good access for those with personal vehicles. Public transit is limited, posing a significant challenge. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer alternative options, but with potential limitations in cost and availability.

This score should be interpreted as a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual circumstances, including mobility, financial resources, and the severity of the illness. For those **moving to Lowellville**, it is crucial to factor in these **transportation** considerations when evaluating **healthcare access**.

**Conclusion: A Call for Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lowellville serves as a reminder of the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the proximity to Youngstown hospitals offers a degree of convenience, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport highlight areas for improvement.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in expanded public transit options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide affordable **transportation** to medical appointments, and ensuring the availability of accessible medical **transportation** services are crucial steps. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources and providing support for individuals facing lung cancer are vital for improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents of Lowellville have equitable access to the care they need.