44441, Negley, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44441, Negley, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.14 percent of residents in 44441 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is East Liverpool City Hospital with a distance of 10.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Negley (ZIP Code 44441)

The air in Negley, Ohio (ZIP Code 44441), whispers of rural tranquility, a landscape of rolling hills and the promise of a slower pace. But beneath the surface serenity lies a stark reality: the potential for a lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent battle for timely and effective healthcare. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Negley, delves into the crucial element of transportation, examining the ease or difficulty of accessing specialized medical care. This score is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Negley, particularly those with pre-existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer.

The very nature of lung cancer treatment demands a complex and often arduous journey. Regular appointments with oncologists, radiation therapy sessions, and potentially, surgical interventions, are all part of the fight. The success of treatment hinges not just on medical expertise, but also on the patient's ability to navigate the logistical challenges of reaching the necessary healthcare facilities. This is where the Lung Cancer Score becomes paramount, offering a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of Negley, the primary artery to healthcare is undoubtedly the automobile. The immediate challenge is the limited presence of major medical centers within the immediate vicinity. The closest options require a drive, and the duration of that drive can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Heading east, the primary route involves navigating **State Route 11**, a limited-access highway that offers a relatively swift passage towards Youngstown. From Negley, a drive to the **Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital**, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves merging onto **State Route 11** from local roads such as **State Route 45** or **State Route 170**. The condition of these local roads, especially during inclement weather, can impact the drive time.

Southward, the journey to **East Liverpool City Hospital** involves a drive along **State Route 170** and **State Route 7**. This route, while shorter in distance, can be more challenging due to its winding nature and the potential for slower speeds. Expect a drive time of approximately 25 to 35 minutes.

Westward, the options become more limited. While the drive to healthcare facilities in the Canton area is possible, it necessitates a longer journey, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on the specific destination and the route taken, often involving **U.S. Route 30**. The impact of this extended drive time on the Lung Cancer Score is significant, as it increases the burden on patients already grappling with the physical and emotional toll of their diagnosis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The public transportation options in and around Negley are, unfortunately, severely limited. This is a critical factor impacting the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of public transit is a crucial element of healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The **Eastgate Regional Council of Governments (ERCOG)** provides some regional transit services. However, the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Negley. Even if a route were available, the travel time to a major medical center via public transit would likely be significantly longer than a car ride, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit is a concern. While federal regulations mandate that public transit systems provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the frequency of these vehicles and the overall coverage of the routes in the Negley area are critical factors. The Lung Cancer Score must account for the potential difficulties faced by patients with mobility limitations, making the lack of robust public transit a significant negative.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered a potential alternative for transportation. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Negley is inconsistent. While these services might be available, their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. The Lung Cancer Score needs to acknowledge the potential for surge pricing, long wait times, and the uncertainty of service availability.

Medical transport services, such as **Medicaid-approved non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)**, are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments. However, the availability and eligibility requirements for these services can vary. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the complexities of navigating these services, including the need for pre-booking, potential delays, and the limitations on the types of appointments covered.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Negley, Ohio (ZIP Code 44441), is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services create a challenging environment for patients seeking timely access to healthcare.

The drive times to major medical centers, while manageable for some, can be a significant burden for those undergoing treatment, especially those with mobility limitations or experiencing treatment-related side effects. The lack of reliable public transit further exacerbates the situation, leaving many patients with limited options.

For individuals considering moving to Negley, the Lung Cancer Score should be a key consideration. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is crucial for successful treatment and overall well-being. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural setting. The score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the real-world difficulties faced by those battling lung cancer in Negley, and the importance of transportation in their fight for survival.