44460, Salem, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44460, Salem, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.88 percent of residents in 44460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.16 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44460 (Salem, Ohio)

Considering a move to Salem, Ohio (ZIP Code 44460)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a personalized assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements for timely and consistent healthcare. This information aims to help you understand the practicalities of accessing vital care within and around Salem, ensuring informed decision-making.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment, but a tool to evaluate the ease of reaching medical facilities. It emphasizes the importance of transportation in the healthcare journey, particularly for those with lung cancer, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care. The goal is to paint a clear picture of what "healthcare access" truly means in 44460, factoring in the realities of getting there.

**Drive Time and Highway Navigation**

Salem's geographical location significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are primarily in Youngstown and Canton, requiring car travel. Driving times are critical, especially considering potential side effects of treatment that may impact driving ability.

Traveling to Youngstown, approximately 30 miles east, typically involves using **State Route 14** and then **Interstate 680**. The drive usually takes around 45 minutes, but traffic, particularly during rush hour, can extend this significantly. For those heading to the Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, the route is relatively straightforward, minimizing the potential for navigational stress.

Canton, about 45 miles south, is another healthcare hub, with the Aultman Hospital offering specialized cancer services. The journey involves **State Route 45** south to **U.S. Route 62**, then connecting to **Interstate 77**. This drive can take approximately an hour, again subject to traffic conditions. The longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing radiation therapy, which often requires daily appointments.

Smaller, local clinics and physician offices within Salem itself, such as those associated with Salem Regional Medical Center, offer some immediate care options. However, for specialized cancer treatment, travel to larger facilities is often unavoidable.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Salem are limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD)** provides local bus services, but these are primarily focused on in-town routes and do not offer direct connections to major healthcare centers in Youngstown or Canton.

The SAMTD buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited route network and infrequent schedules make them an impractical solution for most cancer patients needing regular appointments outside of Salem. Reliance on SAMTD would necessitate multiple transfers and extended travel times, potentially exacerbating fatigue and discomfort.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Salem, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or for trips outside of the immediate Salem area. The cost of frequent rides to Youngstown or Canton can quickly become a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to personal vehicles. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **Medicaid Transportation Providers:** These providers offer transportation services for eligible individuals covered by Medicaid. Eligibility criteria and service availability vary.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Companies:** These companies provide scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments. They typically offer door-to-door service and may accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
* **Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergency situations, some ambulance services may offer non-emergency transportation for patients requiring specialized medical care during transit.

Researching and pre-booking medical transportation services is crucial. Confirming insurance coverage and understanding associated costs are essential before relying on these services.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 44460 is not a simple numerical value. It's a qualitative assessment based on the availability and accessibility of transportation options, weighted by the specific needs of lung cancer patients.

**Factors considered:**

* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach major cancer centers in Youngstown and Canton.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The inadequacy of public transportation for regular medical appointments.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of Uber and Lyft.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of NEMT services.
* **Local Healthcare Availability:** The presence of local clinics and physician offices for initial consultations and follow-up care.

The score emphasizes the importance of considering the practical challenges of transportation when evaluating healthcare access. For individuals with lung cancer, reliable and timely transportation is not just a convenience; it's a necessity.

**Moving to Salem: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

If you're considering moving to Salem, Ohio, and have concerns about lung cancer or are at risk, thoroughly assess your transportation needs. Evaluate your ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Research the specific healthcare providers and treatment centers you may need to access. Contact these facilities to inquire about their transportation assistance programs or recommendations.

Living in Salem offers a quieter pace of life, but its location presents challenges for healthcare access. Planning for transportation is a critical step in ensuring you can receive the care you need, when you need it. This "Lung Cancer Score" write-up aims to give you a realistic view of the transportation landscape, enabling you to make an informed decision about moving to Salem, Ohio.