44514, Youngstown, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44514, Youngstown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.65 percent of residents in 44514 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hmhp St Elizabeth Boardman Health Center with a distance of 2.94 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 44514**

The shadow of lung cancer hangs heavy, a reality for many, and the ability to access timely and effective healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 44514 (Youngstown, Ohio, and surrounding areas), explores the nuances of transportation and healthcare access, vital factors influencing patient outcomes. It's a deep dive for those already here, and a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating *moving to Youngstown*. We'll dissect the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support, offering a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities.

The geography of ZIP Code 44514, a mix of urban and suburban landscapes, presents a complex transportation puzzle. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for mobility. Accessing specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel, and the duration of that travel significantly impacts a patient's well-being.

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

For those with a car, the primary arteries of movement are Interstate 680 (I-680), connecting the city's core with its eastern and southern reaches, and the Ohio State Route 7 (SR-7), a north-south corridor. Traveling to the major healthcare hubs, such as Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital or the nearby Cleveland Clinic, is a common journey.

From many parts of 44514, a drive to St. Elizabeth Hospital can take between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Trips to Cleveland, where specialized cancer centers are located, can range from one to two hours. The drive time is a critical factor, particularly for patients undergoing treatment, as it can exacerbate fatigue and stress. The condition of the roads, particularly during harsh Ohio winters, can add to the challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides public transportation within the Youngstown area. While WRTA offers a network of bus routes, the coverage is limited, and service frequency can be a concern, particularly in the evenings and on weekends.

Specific routes that serve the area, such as Route 1, 2, and 7, offer connections to hospitals and medical facilities. However, the reliance on these routes requires careful planning. The WRTA strives to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, with accessible buses and services. But the availability of accessible transportation is sometimes limited, and the need for advance notice can pose a barrier for some patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of *transportation* options. They are often a convenient alternative to public transit, especially for those with mobility limitations or those needing more flexibility in their schedules.

Medical transport services, like MedTrans or First Transit, specialize in non-emergency medical *transportation*. These services are specifically designed for patients needing assistance to and from medical appointments. They provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, availability and cost can be significant factors.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial element. The primary healthcare providers in the area, such as Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, offer comprehensive cancer care services. However, patients may need to travel to Cleveland or Pittsburgh for specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or clinical trials.

The availability of specialists, oncologists, pulmonologists, and support staff, is another critical factor. The ability to see a specialist promptly can significantly impact treatment outcomes. The efficiency of the healthcare system, including appointment scheduling and wait times, is also essential.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 44514 is not a single number but a composite assessment. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. It also factors in the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, which are vital for patients and their families.

The score would be lower for those who live further from healthcare facilities, have limited access to a personal vehicle, and rely on public transit with limited service. The score would be higher for those with easy access to *transportation*, proximity to healthcare providers, and a strong support network.

**Moving to Youngstown: A Consideration**

For those considering *moving to Youngstown*, the "Lung Cancer Score" is a crucial factor. It is essential to assess the *transportation* options and the proximity to healthcare facilities before making a decision. The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, is also essential.

The decision to move should involve a thorough evaluation of all factors, including the individual's health status, the availability of family support, and the financial implications of healthcare and *transportation* costs.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 44514 highlights the complexities of *healthcare access* in this region. It underscores the importance of efficient *transportation* options, readily available healthcare services, and a robust support network.

Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves enhancing public transit, expanding ride-share services, and ensuring the availability of medical *transportation*. It also involves strengthening the healthcare infrastructure, increasing the availability of specialists, and providing comprehensive support services.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment where all residents, regardless of their *transportation* limitations or geographic location, have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care. The "Lung Cancer Score" is a call to action, urging the community to prioritize the health and well-being of its residents.