44452, North Lima, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44452, North Lima, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.84 percent of residents in 44452 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hmhp St Elizabeth Boardman Health Center with a distance of 3.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Lima, OH (ZIP Code 44452)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of North Lima, Ohio (ZIP Code 44452)? Perhaps you're already a resident, seeking to understand the landscape of healthcare access, particularly concerning a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up delves into the crucial aspect of transportation, a vital component of healthcare access, and assesses the challenges and opportunities within this specific ZIP code. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all factors contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of how easily residents can reach specialized lung cancer care.

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a complex illness, is not merely about medical expertise; it's about the ability to *get there*. This is especially true in a rural area like North Lima, where the availability of specialized care is often concentrated in larger cities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the time, cost, and ease of travel to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in North Lima is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The convenience of personal vehicles is undeniable, but distance and traffic can quickly become obstacles. From North Lima, the nearest major healthcare hubs are Youngstown, approximately 20 miles to the north, and Canton, roughly 45 miles to the southwest.

Driving to Youngstown, the most accessible option, typically involves navigating **State Route 164** and **U.S. Route 62**. During off-peak hours, the drive to the major hospitals in Youngstown, such as Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, should take around 30-40 minutes. However, rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this time. The potential for delays increases the "Lung Cancer Score" negatively, as timely access to treatment can be critical.

Venturing towards Canton entails a longer drive, primarily utilizing **U.S. Route 62** and **U.S. Route 224**. The journey, spanning approximately 45 miles, can take anywhere from 50 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The commute to Aultman Hospital or Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton requires careful planning, especially for appointments or treatments requiring precise timing. The longer travel distance further lowers the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Option in a Rural Setting**

Public transportation options in the North Lima area are limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus services in the Youngstown area, but these routes typically do not extend directly into North Lima. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

While WRTA may offer routes that get close to North Lima, the final leg of the journey to a medical facility would likely require a combination of walking, ride-sharing, or reliance on family and friends. The lack of direct public transit access significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford or are unable to drive.

The WRTA does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential need for multiple transfers can still pose significant challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Youngstown and Canton areas, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in North Lima itself can be less reliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially when frequent trips to medical appointments are required.

Medical transport services, such as MedExpress or local ambulance services, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are often equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. However, medical transport is typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles, and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for North Lima (44452): A Subjective Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for North Lima, Ohio (44452) is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing availability contribute to this assessment.

The drive times to Youngstown, while relatively manageable, can be impacted by traffic. The longer drive to Canton further complicates access. The absence of a robust public transit system and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport add layers of complexity and cost.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to North Lima**

For individuals considering a move to North Lima, or those already residing there, careful consideration of healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering the possibility of a lung cancer diagnosis.

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate personal transportation options and consider the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Explore Healthcare Providers:** Research the availability of lung cancer specialists and treatment centers in Youngstown and Canton.
* **Plan for Travel:** Develop a detailed plan for transportation to medical appointments, including backup options in case of unforeseen circumstances.
* **Consider Support Systems:** Build a strong support network of family, friends, or community resources to assist with transportation and other needs.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transit options or ride-sharing availability in the area.

Living in North Lima offers a tranquil lifestyle, but careful planning is essential to ensure access to quality healthcare, especially when facing a serious illness like lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that while the physical beauty of the area is undeniable, the practical realities of healthcare access must be a primary consideration. The journey to health is a complex one, and in North Lima, it requires a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access.