44687, Walnut Creek, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44687, Walnut Creek, Ohio is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.51 percent of residents in 44687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 10.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walnut Creek (ZIP Code 44687)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Walnut Creek, Ohio (ZIP Code 44687)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the potential challenges and opportunities for individuals requiring lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Understanding the intricacies of **transportation** options is paramount when evaluating the quality of **healthcare access** in any community. This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative modes of transport, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents.

The Lung Cancer Score aims to provide a realistic picture of the logistical hurdles and advantages that Walnut Creek residents face when seeking lung cancer care. It is not a medical diagnosis tool, but rather a practical guide to understanding the community’s healthcare landscape. This score is based on the assumption that timely access to healthcare is vital for optimal patient outcomes. The higher the score, the better the access to care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Walnut Creek, nestled in the heart of Amish Country, presents unique transportation considerations. The primary arteries connecting the community to major healthcare facilities are State Route 39 and State Route 515. These roads, while scenic, can experience congestion, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons. The drive time to the closest hospital with a comprehensive cancer center, Aultman Hospital in Canton, is approximately 45-60 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating State Route 39 east, then transitioning onto Interstate 77 north.

Alternatively, patients may consider the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton. The drive time is similar, around 40-55 minutes, utilizing a combination of State Route 39 and Interstate 77. The drive to University Hospitals (UH) Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, a more specialized center, can stretch to 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via Interstate 77 north and then Interstate 480 west. This extended travel time underscores the importance of early detection and proactive screening programs.

The availability of multiple healthcare options, while beneficial, is tempered by the distances involved. The variability in drive times, influenced by traffic, weather, and road conditions, necessitates careful planning and consideration for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public **transportation** options in and around Walnut Creek are limited. There is no direct public transit system operating within the village. The closest public transit options are in larger cities like Canton. This significantly restricts access for individuals who do not drive or have limited mobility.

The lack of public transit poses a significant challenge for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The absence of reliable public **transportation** necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport, adding to the complexity and cost of healthcare access. The absence of accessible routes for ADA compliance is a major drawback.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or treatments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedTrans or FirstCall Medical **Transportation**, offer specialized transport for patients with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, these services come with a premium price tag and require advance booking, which may not always be feasible in urgent situations.

The reliance on these services further emphasizes the importance of careful planning and proactive arrangements for healthcare access. The cost and availability of these options can significantly impact the overall **healthcare access** experience for residents.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Walnut Creek (ZIP Code 44687) reflects the complexities of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, the distance to specialized cancer care facilities presents a significant challenge.

The score considers factors such as drive times, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport. The score is designed to provide a realistic assessment of the ease or difficulty of accessing lung cancer care, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions.

**Factors affecting the score:**

* **Drive Time:** Longer drive times to cancer centers negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of public transit significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Limited or costly ride-share options negatively impact the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of medical transport are considered.
* **Proximity to Primary Care:** Access to primary care physicians for screenings and referrals is crucial.

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation:**

The score is based on a scale of 1-10, with 10 representing optimal access.

* **Drive Time (40%):** Drive times to cancer centers are a primary factor.
* **Public Transit (20%):** The availability and accessibility of public transit.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport (20%):** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Primary Care Access (20%):** The availability of primary care physicians for screenings and referrals.

**The Walnut Creek Lung Cancer Score:**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Lung Cancer Score for Walnut Creek (ZIP Code 44687) is estimated to be a 4. This score reflects the following:

* **Moderate Drive Times:** The 45-60 minute drive to Aultman Hospital is manageable but requires planning.
* **Limited Public Transit:** The lack of public transit severely impacts the score.
* **Variable Ride-Share Availability:** Ride-share services are available but may be unreliable.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Medical transport is available but costly.
* **Access to Primary Care:** Access to primary care physicians is generally good.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering **moving to Walnut Creek**, it is essential to acknowledge the **transportation** challenges related to **healthcare access**, particularly for specialized care like lung cancer treatment.

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or your reliance on others for transport.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify nearby primary care physicians and cancer specialists.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research and understand the costs and availability of medical transport services.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Factor in travel time and potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments.
* **Consider Proactive Screening:** Discuss lung cancer screening with your primary care physician.
* **Advocate for Improved Access:** Support initiatives that improve **healthcare access** in the community.

**Conclusion:**

While Walnut Creek offers a desirable lifestyle, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the **transportation** challenges that impact **healthcare access**. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors when making their **moving to Walnut Creek** decision. Proactive planning, awareness of available resources, and a commitment to early detection are crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes.