44672, Sebring, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44672, Sebring, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.69 percent of residents in 44672 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 20.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sebring, OH (ZIP Code 44672)

Imagine the quiet charm of Sebring, Ohio, a community nestled in the heart of Mahoning County. You envision a life here, perhaps a new beginning, a fresh start. But before you pack your bags, especially if you're a smoker or have a family history of lung cancer, it's crucial to understand the landscape of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this serious disease, a vital consideration when moving to Sebring.

The Lung Cancer Score aims to quantify the ease of reaching essential healthcare services from the 44672 ZIP code. This involves analyzing drive times, public transit availability, and ride-share options, all crucial elements of healthcare access. The score will highlight potential challenges and empower you to make informed decisions regarding your health and well-being, particularly if you are at an elevated risk.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

For residents of Sebring, the car is often the primary mode of transportation. The nearest hospital with advanced lung cancer treatment capabilities is generally the Mercy Health - St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, approximately 25 miles away.

Driving from Sebring to Youngstown involves a journey primarily on **U.S. Route 62** east. Traffic is usually moderate, but conditions can vary. Expect an average drive time of 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. **Ohio Route 14** provides an alternative route, though slightly longer.

For specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or surgical oncology, you might need to travel to Cleveland Clinic or University Hospitals in Cleveland, roughly 75 miles away. This trip involves taking **U.S. Route 62** north to **U.S. Route 224** west, connecting to **Interstate 76** and then **Interstate 77** north. The drive time to Cleveland can range from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic, particularly during rush hour.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Sebring are limited. The primary provider is the **Mahoning County Transit (MCT)**. However, the MCT's services are designed to serve the Youngstown area and do not extend directly into Sebring with frequent routes.

To access the MCT, you would likely need a combination of a local taxi or ride-share to reach a transfer point, such as the Salem Area Mass Transit District (SAMTD) in Salem. From there, you might be able to connect to a route that eventually reaches Youngstown. This journey could take a significant amount of time, potentially several hours, making it an impractical option for urgent medical needs or routine appointments.

The MCT does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the infrequent service and the need for multiple transfers present significant barriers to healthcare access for those in Sebring.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Sebring area, although availability may be less consistent than in larger cities. While these services can provide a convenient option for individual trips, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans or FirstCall Medical Transportation, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, particularly for long-distance travel.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Assessing the Risks**

Based on the available transportation options, the Lung Cancer Score for Sebring, OH (44672) reflects the challenges in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential difficulties for individuals needing regular medical care, especially those undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The drive times to Youngstown and Cleveland, while manageable, can be taxing, particularly for patients experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment. The lack of readily available public transit options further restricts access, particularly for those without personal transportation.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some alternatives, but the cost and availability of these services can be a concern. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics when seeking healthcare services in this area.

**Making Informed Decisions: Moving to Sebring**

When considering a move to Sebring, it's essential to factor in the challenges related to healthcare access. Individuals with a history of smoking, a family history of lung cancer, or any other risk factors should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and the potential impact on their healthcare needs.

Consider the proximity to medical facilities, the availability of transportation assistance, and the potential costs associated with accessing care. If you are considering moving to Sebring, it is crucial to research local healthcare providers, understand the availability of transportation services, and assess your personal needs to ensure you can receive timely and accessible care.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a complex issue, and it's essential to be proactive in planning for your health needs. By understanding the transportation landscape and the available resources, you can make informed decisions and ensure your well-being in your new community.