44440, Mineral Ridge, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44440, Mineral Ridge, Ohio is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.38 percent of residents in 44440 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 5.99 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mineral Ridge (ZIP Code 44440)

Considering a move to Mineral Ridge, Ohio (ZIP code 44440)? This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on lung cancer care, and how transportation options impact your ability to receive timely and effective treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" here considers the ease of navigating transportation to various healthcare facilities, a vital factor in the prognosis and quality of life for individuals facing this challenging diagnosis. This is especially important when considering the impact of *transportation* on *healthcare access*.

Mineral Ridge, a small community nestled in Trumbull County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The availability of comprehensive lung cancer treatment is not directly available within the ZIP code. Therefore, understanding the *transportation* landscape is paramount.

The primary consideration is drive time. The most direct route to major healthcare providers typically involves using State Route 46, a major north-south artery. Traveling south on SR-46 provides access to the Mercy Health – St. Joseph Warren Hospital, a critical facility for initial diagnosis and treatment. The drive, depending on traffic, can range from 15 to 25 minutes. Another option is to head west on Interstate 80, a major east-west highway. This route provides access to University Hospitals – Trumbull Memorial Hospital in Warren. This drive is also approximately 20-30 minutes.

Beyond these hospitals, more specialized cancer centers, such as the Cleveland Clinic, located in Cleveland, require a longer commute. The drive, primarily via Interstate 80 West and Interstate 480 West, can take approximately an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This longer distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical condition and the frequency of appointments.

Public *transportation* options in the area are limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service throughout Trumbull County. However, the routes serving Mineral Ridge are infrequent and may not directly connect to the major hospitals. Moreover, the availability of accessible vehicles equipped with ADA features is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Checking the WRTA website for route maps and schedules, as well as details on ADA accessibility, is essential for those relying on public *transportation*.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a more flexible *transportation* option. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather, should also be considered. Patients and their families should investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in advance.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide specialized *transportation* services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often cater to patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring oxygen or other medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are necessary.

For individuals considering *moving to Mineral Ridge*, evaluating the availability and practicality of these *transportation* options is crucial. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a critical factor, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those concerned about the risk of lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mineral Ridge is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to local hospitals are a positive aspect. However, the limited public *transportation* options and the longer commute to specialized cancer centers in Cleveland negatively impact the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offers additional options, but their cost and reliability need to be carefully considered.

The impact of *transportation* on *healthcare access* extends beyond just getting to appointments. It also affects the ability to receive timely diagnoses, access specialized treatments, and manage the side effects of treatment. Frequent trips for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments can be physically and emotionally draining, making convenient and reliable *transportation* even more critical.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, can be influenced by *transportation* accessibility. Patients may need to travel to different locations to access these resources, making convenient *transportation* essential for their overall well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the practical realities of living with lung cancer in Mineral Ridge. It highlights the need for careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure access to the best possible care.

For those considering *moving to Mineral Ridge*, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and *transportation* capabilities is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide *transportation*, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical *transportation* services.

In conclusion, while Mineral Ridge offers a close-knit community and a relatively affordable cost of living, the challenges of *transportation* to specialized healthcare facilities must be carefully considered. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that *healthcare access* is not just about the availability of medical services; it's also about the ability to reach those services in a timely and efficient manner. Thorough research and planning are essential for anyone considering *moving to Mineral Ridge* and prioritizing their *healthcare access*, particularly when dealing with a complex illness like lung cancer.