44490, Washingtonville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44490, Washingtonville, Ohio is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.10 percent of residents in 44490 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 3.52 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Washingtonville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44490)

The tranquil community of Washingtonville, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 44490, offers a peaceful existence. However, when considering the potential challenges of accessing vital healthcare services, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer, a comprehensive understanding of transportation options becomes paramount. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," will delve into the accessibility of healthcare facilities, specifically focusing on those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, considering the available modes of transportation and their associated challenges.

The primary concern for residents of Washingtonville is the relatively limited availability of specialized medical care within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to larger regional centers, such as Youngstown and Canton, to access comprehensive oncology services. This reliance on external healthcare providers underscores the critical role of transportation in ensuring timely and effective treatment.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

For those who prefer the autonomy of personal vehicles, the journey to healthcare facilities in Youngstown and Canton typically involves navigating a network of well-maintained roadways. From Washingtonville, the most direct route to Youngstown often utilizes State Route 14, a two-lane highway that provides a relatively straightforward passage. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, for destinations further south, such as Canton, Interstate 76 offers a faster, though potentially more congested, route. I-76 is a major interstate highway that connects to other major roadways, including State Route 183. The drive to Canton via this route typically takes around an hour. However, this time can fluctuate considerably depending on traffic volume, especially during peak commuting hours.

Navigating these roadways can present challenges, particularly for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Fatigue, nausea, and other side effects can make driving difficult. Furthermore, inclement weather, common in Ohio, can significantly impact drive times and road conditions, potentially delaying or disrupting scheduled appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The public transportation infrastructure in and around Washingtonville presents a significant hurdle for those seeking healthcare access. The availability of public transit is limited, with infrequent routes and limited accessibility features. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA).

WRTA operates a network of bus routes, but direct service from Washingtonville to major healthcare facilities is severely limited. Riders would likely need to transfer multiple times, significantly increasing travel time and the potential for delays. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present within the WRTA fleet, is not guaranteed on all routes or at all times. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

The lack of robust public transit options underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The challenges of public transit highlight the importance of considering all available options when assessing healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Washingtonville and the surrounding areas can be inconsistent. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies like MedStar and First Transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior booking is often required.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial considerations when evaluating healthcare access. These options can provide a lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation alternatives.

**Healthcare Access and the "Lung Cancer Score"**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Washingtonville reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score considers the distance to specialized medical facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the potential barriers to access faced by individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. However, the score would be positively influenced by the relatively direct routes to major healthcare centers via State Route 14 and Interstate 76.

**Moving to Washingtonville: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Washingtonville, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or those at risk for lung cancer, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and the associated costs.

It is advisable to research the specific healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, including their proximity to Washingtonville and the services they offer. Contacting local healthcare providers and transportation services can provide valuable insights into the realities of accessing healthcare in the area.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Transportation for Healthcare**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Washingtonville underscores the importance of transportation in ensuring healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited availability of specialized medical care within the immediate vicinity necessitates careful consideration of transportation options.

Residents and prospective residents should prioritize understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. By proactively addressing these transportation challenges, individuals can significantly improve their ability to access timely and effective healthcare, particularly for conditions like lung cancer. The availability of reliable transportation is a cornerstone of healthcare access, and its importance cannot be overstated.