44693, Deersville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44693, Deersville, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 44693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 35.58 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deersville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44693)**

Deersville, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Harrison County, presents a unique set of challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score,” evaluates the transportation infrastructure available to residents of ZIP code 44693, focusing on the critical element of getting to and from medical appointments, treatments, and support services. The score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on the overall healthcare journey. This is especially relevant for anyone considering moving to Deersville, as the ability to reach specialized care is paramount.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Deersville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area is largely rural, with limited public transportation options. The nearest major medical centers, where specialized lung cancer care is available, are located in larger cities like Canton and Pittsburgh. This necessitates significant travel times, placing a burden on patients and their families.

The most direct route to Canton, Ohio, for specialized lung cancer treatment, typically involves traveling on **State Route 22** east. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The drive from Deersville to Canton, a distance of approximately 45 miles, can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This is a significant time commitment, especially for individuals undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Alternatively, patients may opt to travel to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for treatment. This journey involves navigating **State Route 22** east to **U.S. Route 22**, then merging onto **State Route 60** before accessing the city's hospitals. The distance to Pittsburgh is roughly 80 miles, and the drive can easily take 2 hours or more, particularly considering the potential for traffic delays, especially around Pittsburgh's urban core. This extended travel time adds considerable stress and fatigue to an already challenging situation.

Public transportation options in and around Deersville are extremely limited. Harrison County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This lack of options can be particularly problematic for elderly patients, those with disabilities, or individuals facing financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability can vary. The rural nature of Deersville and the surrounding areas may result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban areas. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips to medical appointments can quickly become a significant financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** may offer services in the area, but their coverage and eligibility requirements can vary. These services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability, particularly for short-notice appointments. The cost of these services can also be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals with lung cancer in Deersville. Patients and their families must proactively arrange transportation for each appointment, considering factors like traffic, weather conditions, and the patient's physical condition. This can be a complex and stressful undertaking, adding to the emotional and physical challenges of battling cancer.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Deersville reflects the challenges posed by the limited transportation infrastructure. The long drive times to specialized medical centers, the scarcity of public transportation, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. This underscores the critical need for individuals considering moving to Deersville to carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation options.

Moving to Deersville requires a thorough evaluation of healthcare access. Potential residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions like lung cancer, should carefully consider the implications of long travel times, limited public transit, and the potential financial burden of transportation costs. It is essential to research the availability of medical transportation services, explore potential support networks, and factor in the time and cost associated with traveling to and from medical appointments.

The “Lung Cancer Score” serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of transportation in healthcare access. The score highlights the need for patients and their families to be proactive in planning and securing transportation for medical appointments. It also underscores the potential impact of transportation challenges on treatment outcomes and overall quality of life. The score is a call to action, emphasizing the need for improved transportation infrastructure and support services to ensure that all residents of Deersville have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

The healthcare journey for lung cancer patients in Deersville is significantly influenced by transportation. The absence of convenient public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services create barriers to accessing timely and consistent medical care. The “Lung Cancer Score” reflects these challenges, underscoring the need for careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to transportation arrangements. For those considering moving to Deersville, a thorough assessment of healthcare access, including transportation options, is essential to ensure a supportive and manageable healthcare experience. The score serves as a vital tool in understanding and addressing the unique healthcare challenges faced by residents in this rural Ohio community.