44654, Millersburg, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44654, Millersburg, Ohio is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.77 percent of residents in 44654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 3.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Millersburg, Ohio (ZIP Code 44654)

Considering a move to Millersburg, Ohio (ZIP code 44654), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, analyzing transportation options to relevant healthcare facilities, vital for early diagnosis and ongoing care. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, offering a comprehensive view of your healthcare journey.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a formal medical assessment. Instead, it's a qualitative evaluation of transportation barriers that could impact timely access to lung cancer-related services, including primary care, pulmonology, oncology, radiation therapy, and diagnostic imaging. Each mode of transportation is evaluated for its convenience, reliability, and accessibility for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer.

Millersburg, a charming village nestled in Holmes County, offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and community spirit. However, its location presents specific transportation challenges for healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating careful consideration of transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate these realities.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for residents of Millersburg. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US-62, SR-241, and SR-39. These routes, while scenic, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

For primary care and initial lung cancer screenings, the closest options are often found within Holmes County. Drive times to local clinics are generally manageable, typically under 15-20 minutes, assuming minimal traffic. However, for specialized care, the journey becomes significantly longer.

The Cleveland Clinic, a leading cancer center, is approximately a 90-minute to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves US-62 East and I-77 North. The Akron General Hospital, another potential option, is closer, around a 60-90 minute drive via US-62 East and SR-21 North.

The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital in Columbus is a more distant option, requiring a 2-2.5 hour drive primarily via SR-39 East, US-62 East, and I-71 South. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public transit options in Millersburg are limited. The availability of public transportation for healthcare access is a significant factor in our Lung Cancer Score.

Holmes County is served by a local transit system, but its routes and schedules are limited. This system primarily caters to local needs and may not offer direct routes to major cancer centers in Cleveland or Columbus. Furthermore, the frequency of service may not be suitable for the demands of cancer treatment, which often requires multiple appointments per week.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. While the local system may offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited route network and scheduling constraints pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues, a common concern for lung cancer patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Millersburg, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to distant cancer centers can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance for patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the region, including Ohio Medical Transport and First Medical Transport. These services often offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, medical transport can be expensive, and availability may require advance booking.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The presence of local medical facilities is a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. While Millersburg itself may not have a dedicated cancer center, the availability of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and diagnostic imaging services (like CT scans and X-rays) within the local area is essential for early detection and initial treatment.

The proximity to hospitals and healthcare centers in nearby towns and cities is also vital. The presence of these facilities impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score.

**Lung Cancer Score Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Millersburg (ZIP code 44654) is moderate. While local primary care and initial screening options are accessible, the need to travel to larger cities for specialized cancer care presents significant transportation challenges.

The drive times to major cancer centers in Cleveland and Columbus are considerable, impacting the convenience and potential stress of treatment. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport further complicate healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering a Move to Millersburg:**

For individuals with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Before moving, research the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

Establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the Millersburg area to facilitate early screenings and referrals. Explore the possibility of telemedicine appointments for follow-up care to reduce the need for frequent travel.

Consider the potential financial burden of transportation costs when budgeting for healthcare. Assess the availability of support networks, such as family or friends, who can assist with transportation needs.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Millersburg offers a unique lifestyle. However, individuals considering a move should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment. By understanding the limitations of available transportation options and proactively planning for their healthcare needs, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure timely access to quality care. The Lung Cancer Score, while a simplified assessment, highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access and helps individuals make informed decisions about moving to Millersburg.