44484, Warren, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44484, Warren, Ohio is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.66 percent of residents in 44484 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mh St Joseph Warren Hospital with a distance of 0.83 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Warren, Ohio (ZIP Code 44484)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is complex. This assessment delves into the accessibility of lung cancer care for residents of Warren, Ohio (ZIP code 44484), a community nestled in the heart of Trumbull County. We'll examine the crucial element of transportation, dissecting drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all vital components of a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease with which individuals can access potentially life-saving treatment. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Warren, as it directly impacts their healthcare access.

The cornerstone of this analysis is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers. In Warren, the primary destination for specialized lung cancer care is generally the Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized institution. The most direct route involves utilizing the **Ohio State Route 82** (also known as the **Warren-Youngstown Road**), connecting to the **Interstate 80** (I-80) West. This highway is a major artery, providing a relatively smooth and efficient passage.

From Warren, the drive to the Cleveland Clinic main campus, located in Cleveland, typically takes approximately one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time. The **Ohio State Route 46** and **U.S. Route 422** provide alternative routes, though they may involve more stop-and-go traffic and potentially add to the overall travel duration. Residents should factor in these variables when planning appointments and treatments.

Beyond the Cleveland Clinic, other healthcare providers within a reasonable distance offer lung cancer services. Mercy Health - St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a regional medical center, is a viable option for some treatments and consultations. The drive to Youngstown from Warren is considerably shorter, usually taking around 20 to 30 minutes via **Ohio State Route 422** or **U.S. Route 422**. This proximity can be advantageous for routine check-ups, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, reducing the burden of frequent long-distance travel.

Public transportation presents a less-developed option in Warren. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides limited bus service within Trumbull County. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel and do not offer direct, efficient transportation to Cleveland or Youngstown hospitals. The WRTA does operate some routes that connect to the Youngstown area, requiring transfers and potentially increasing travel time to over an hour.

The WRTA's ADA-accessible buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, making them a potentially viable option for those with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects. The lack of robust public transportation highlights a key consideration for those prioritizing healthcare access when moving to Warren.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Warren area. These services offer a more flexible transportation alternative compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, easing the burden of travel for patients with mobility issues or those requiring additional support. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs compared to ride-sharing or personal vehicles.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Warren, Ohio, must incorporate these factors. While the drive time to the Cleveland Clinic, the gold standard for cancer care, is manageable, it is not negligible. The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services add complexity and potential financial burdens. The proximity to Youngstown hospitals offers a more accessible option for certain treatments, providing a crucial element of healthcare access.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 44484 reflects a mixed bag. The availability of high-quality cancer care at the Cleveland Clinic is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly alternative transportation options, coupled with the limitations of public transit, presents challenges. The accessibility of local medical facilities in Youngstown provides a crucial buffer.

For individuals considering moving to Warren, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and financial resources is essential. Those with reliable personal vehicles or the financial means to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services will likely find healthcare access more manageable. Those reliant on public transportation or with limited mobility may face greater challenges.

This assessment underscores the importance of considering all aspects of transportation when evaluating healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the individual's circumstances and priorities. By understanding the available options and their associated costs and limitations, residents of Warren can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have the best possible chance of accessing timely and effective treatment.