44613, Brewster, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44613, Brewster, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.98 percent of residents in 44613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 11.65 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brewster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44613)**

The crisp air of Brewster, Ohio, a community nestled in Stark County, offers a certain charm. But for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this small town must be weighed against the practical realities of healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a personalized assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing vital medical care, particularly for those considering moving to Brewster.

The core of this score hinges on the concept of "transportation accessibility," a critical factor in cancer treatment. Treatment regimens often involve frequent appointments: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, specialist consultations, and follow-up scans. Each journey, regardless of distance, presents a challenge for patients already battling a debilitating illness. This assessment considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within and beyond ZIP code 44613.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways is a double-edged sword. While offering direct routes, traffic, and the physical demands of driving, especially for those undergoing treatment, must be carefully considered.

The most direct route for specialized care often involves traveling to Canton, Ohio, a regional hub for healthcare. From Brewster, the journey typically begins on **State Route 21 (SR-21)**. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a major cancer treatment center, is approximately 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This relatively short drive is a significant advantage.

However, traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak commuting hours. Delays on SR-21, especially near intersections, can add precious minutes to the journey. Alternative routes exist, but they often involve navigating smaller county roads, which might be less well-maintained or offer fewer amenities.

For those seeking care at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton, the drive time is comparable, utilizing SR-21 and local roads. The convenience of these relatively short commutes is a positive aspect of Brewster's location.

Traveling further afield to Cleveland, Ohio, for specialized care, such as at the Cleveland Clinic main campus, requires a longer journey. The route typically involves taking **Interstate 77 (I-77)** north. This drive can take approximately an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. The longer commute introduces additional challenges: increased fatigue, potential for traffic-related delays, and the need to plan for rest stops.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Brewster and the surrounding areas are limited. This is a significant drawback for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The availability of public transit directly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service within Stark County. However, service to Brewster is limited. The frequency of routes and the coverage area may not adequately serve the needs of patients requiring regular medical appointments.

The SARTA website (www.sarta.com) provides detailed route information, including schedules and accessibility features. Potential riders should carefully review route maps and schedules to determine if public transit aligns with their healthcare needs. ADA-accessible buses are available, providing an essential service for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and the potential for longer travel times compared to driving remain a significant challenge.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Brewster may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While providing a valuable service, medical transport can be expensive and may require advance booking.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but a holistic evaluation considering all the factors discussed. It's a personalized assessment that should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances.

For a patient in Brewster, the score would be influenced by factors such as:

* **Driving ability:** Can the patient drive, or are they reliant on others?
* **Treatment location:** Where is the patient receiving treatment?
* **Appointment frequency:** How often are appointments scheduled?
* **Financial resources:** Can the patient afford ride-sharing or medical transport?
* **Support system:** Does the patient have family or friends who can provide transportation?

The score would then weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation option. The relatively short drive times to Canton for treatment at Aultman Hospital or Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital would be considered a positive factor. The limited public transit options and the potential for high costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport would be considered negative factors.

**Moving to Brewster: A Careful Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Brewster, the "Lung Cancer Score" becomes even more critical. The decision to relocate should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and the availability of healthcare access.

Potential residents should research local healthcare providers, assess the availability of transportation options, and consider the potential financial implications of healthcare-related transportation costs.

The proximity to Canton and the availability of hospitals are significant advantages. However, the limited public transit and the potential reliance on private transportation options should be carefully considered.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Living with lung cancer is a challenging journey. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Brewster (ZIP code 44613) highlights the importance of understanding the local transportation landscape. While the community offers certain advantages, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on private transportation services should be carefully considered. A thorough assessment of transportation accessibility is essential for individuals seeking to maintain their healthcare access and quality of life in Brewster, Ohio. The journey to recovery is often a complex one, and understanding the transportation options is a crucial step in navigating the challenges of lung cancer treatment.