44493, Winona, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44493, Winona, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.33 percent of residents in 44493 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 5.78 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Winona, Ohio (ZIP Code 44493)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical aspect of survival and quality of life. In Winona, Ohio (ZIP code 44493), a rural community nestled in Columbiana County, the challenge of accessing specialized medical care is a significant factor in patient outcomes. This report analyzes the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital healthcare services, including those for lung cancer treatment. We will explore the drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions available to the residents of Winona.

The primary concern for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer is timely access to specialists. This includes oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation therapists. The closest major medical centers offering comprehensive cancer care are located in the larger cities of Youngstown and Canton, both of which are a significant distance from Winona. The journey to these facilities requires careful consideration of the available transportation options.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The most common mode of transportation in Winona is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways connecting Winona to the outside world are US Route 62 and State Route 14. Heading east on Route 62, the drive to the Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route can be subject to delays, especially during rush hour.

Traveling west on Route 62, and then south on Interstate 76, the drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton is about an hour and 15 minutes. This route involves navigating a busier interstate, and therefore, is subject to more variability in travel time. The condition of these roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact travel times and safety.

These drive times are crucial for patients needing frequent treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or follow-up appointments. The longer the travel time, the more challenging it becomes for patients to adhere to their treatment schedules and maintain their quality of life. This becomes a significant factor when considering moving to Winona.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Winona are severely limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides some service in the Youngstown area, but its routes do not directly serve Winona. There is no dedicated public transit route that connects Winona to the major hospitals in Youngstown or Canton.

The lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to their illness, or have limited mobility. ADA-accessible options are crucial for patients with disabilities, but the absence of public transit makes this a significant challenge. This absence is a serious consideration for those with a lung cancer diagnosis.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Youngstown and Canton areas, but their availability in Winona is less reliable. The cost of these services can also be a burden for patients, particularly those with limited financial resources. The cost of transportation, coupled with the cost of medical care, can create a significant financial strain.

Medical transportation services, such as Life Fleet and MedExpress, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited. They are often reserved for those with significant medical needs, not for routine appointments.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Winona, Ohio, reflects the challenges in healthcare access. The score is based on the following factors: drive times to major medical centers, availability of public transit, reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transportation. The score is a measure of the ease with which residents can access the specialized care needed for lung cancer treatment.

For residents of Winona, the score is negatively impacted by the long drive times, the lack of public transit, and the cost and uncertainty associated with ride-sharing and medical transport. This translates to a lower score, highlighting the need for improved transportation options and resources for those battling lung cancer.

**Moving to Winona: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Winona, the healthcare access situation is a crucial factor to consider. Those with existing health conditions, particularly lung cancer, must carefully evaluate their ability to access the medical care they need. The distance to major medical centers, the limited public transportation options, and the cost of alternative transportation services should be weighed against the benefits of living in a rural community.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in Winona requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly routes connecting Winona to Youngstown and Canton, is essential. This could include expanding the WRTA service to reach Winona or establishing a dedicated shuttle service for medical appointments.

Community partnerships with ride-sharing services could provide discounted transportation for medical appointments. Increased funding for medical transportation services would make these services more accessible and affordable. Telemedicine initiatives could also play a role, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Winona, Ohio, presents significant challenges for individuals seeking healthcare, particularly those with lung cancer. The long drive times, limited public transit, and the cost of alternative transportation options create barriers to accessing timely and comprehensive care. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services is critical to improving the Lung Cancer Score and ensuring that residents of Winona have the healthcare access they deserve.