44718, Canton, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44718, Canton, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.46 percent of residents in 44718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 3.97 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44718

The journey to healthcare, a crucial element in any individual's well-being, takes on heightened significance when considering a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 44718, meticulously analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer-specific healthcare within and around Canton, Ohio. Our goal: to provide a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score,' offering insights into the ease or difficulty of accessing potentially life-saving treatments. This is especially critical for those contemplating moving to Canton, allowing for an informed decision regarding healthcare access.

The 44718 ZIP Code, encompassing a significant portion of Canton, Ohio, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Understanding these nuances is key to assessing healthcare accessibility, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of lung cancer treatment. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare access landscape.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Canton's Roads**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this method hinges on the condition of roads and the distances to healthcare facilities. In 44718, the primary arteries influencing healthcare access are Interstate 77 (I-77) and U.S. Route 62 (US-62). These highways serve as the major thoroughfares, connecting residents to hospitals and specialized cancer centers.

From various points within 44718, a drive to Aultman Hospital, a major healthcare provider in Canton, typically takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive usually involves navigating local roads like Whipple Avenue NW or 30th Street NW to access I-77. The speed and ease of this commute significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score, as quick access to medical care is paramount.

Another critical destination is Mercy Medical Center, also in Canton. Reaching Mercy often involves navigating US-62, potentially encountering more traffic during peak hours. Drive times to Mercy from 44718 can range from 15 to 25 minutes, again influenced by traffic flow and the specific origin point within the ZIP Code.

The drive to Cleveland Clinic Akron General, a regional cancer center, presents a longer commute. This trip, typically involving I-77, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. While this drive is manageable, it adds a significant time commitment for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, influencing the Lung Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Canton, while present, presents limitations in terms of healthcare access, especially for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services throughout the region. However, the routes and frequency of service may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

SARTA operates several routes that traverse or are near 44718. These routes, while offering a degree of connectivity, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, impacting the accessibility of healthcare.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SARTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the reliance on public transit for lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue or mobility challenges, can be a significant burden. The Lung Cancer Score must reflect the challenges of relying on public transit for this patient population.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially easing the burden of healthcare access for residents of 44718. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, play a crucial role for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transit. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, offering a valuable lifeline for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and specific needs.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for 44718 will integrate all these factors, considering drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. The score will be weighted to reflect the importance of timely and reliable access to healthcare.

A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, with short drive times, readily available public transit, and reliable ride-sharing and medical transport options. A lower score suggests challenges in accessing healthcare, with longer drive times, limited public transit, and potential difficulties with ride-sharing and medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Canton, this score is crucial. It allows prospective residents to assess the healthcare landscape and make an informed decision about their future. Understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within 44718 empowers individuals to prioritize healthcare access when choosing a place to live.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare services. Regular updates will ensure the score remains relevant and provides the most accurate picture of healthcare accessibility for residents of 44718. This comprehensive analysis is vital for navigating the complexities of healthcare, particularly for those facing the challenges of lung cancer.