44817, Bloomdale, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44817, Bloomdale, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.51 percent of residents in 44817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 13.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bloomdale, Ohio (ZIP Code 44817)

Bloomdale, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Wood County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. The journey to specialized care, a critical factor in survival and quality of life, is intrinsically linked to transportation options. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 44817, analyzing the available transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing vital medical services. We'll explore the intricacies of driving times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture for those considering moving to Bloomdale or seeking care within the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but rather a comprehensive assessment of the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare. It considers the time and effort required to reach diagnostic facilities, treatment centers, and support services. This assessment is particularly crucial for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis, as timely access to care significantly impacts treatment outcomes. The score highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation network, offering insights into the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in Bloomdale.

For residents of 44817, the most common mode of transportation is personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Bloomdale to regional healthcare hubs are State Route 18 and State Route 235. These roads offer relatively direct routes, but their efficiency is contingent on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. The nearest major medical centers are located in Bowling Green, Findlay, and Toledo, each presenting varying drive times.

Traveling to Bowling Green, home to Wood County Hospital, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via State Route 18. This relatively short commute provides access to general medical services, including diagnostic imaging, but may not offer specialized lung cancer treatment. Findlay, a city roughly 30 minutes away via State Route 235 and I-75, houses Blanchard Valley Health System, which offers a more comprehensive range of services, potentially including oncology and radiation therapy.

The journey to Toledo, the largest city in the region, requires a longer commute, approximately 45 minutes to an hour via I-75 North. Toledo is home to several major hospitals, including ProMedica Toledo Hospital and the University of Toledo Medical Center, which boast advanced cancer centers and specialized lung cancer treatment options. While the drive is longer, the potential access to a wider array of specialists and cutting-edge therapies is a significant advantage.

Public transportation options in Bloomdale are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service can be a lifeline for some, its availability and scheduling may not always align with the urgent needs of cancer patients. The service's ADA accessibility is a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access transportation. However, its reliance on pre-arranged bookings can pose a challenge in emergency situations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers in Bloomdale and the surrounding rural areas might be less consistent compared to larger urban centers. The cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden, especially for patients undergoing lengthy treatment regimens.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues or other medical requirements. Companies like CareRide and various local ambulance services might provide transportation to and from medical appointments, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bloomdale, therefore, is influenced by the following factors: the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost and availability of medical transport. The drive times to healthcare centers are manageable, but the lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness.

Considering moving to Bloomdale? The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape. Prospective residents should factor in the potential drive times to medical facilities, assess their reliance on personal vehicles, and explore alternative transportation options. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial.

The accessibility of healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community well-being. For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and efficiently can significantly impact their treatment journey. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bloomdale underscores the need for residents to proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs, ensuring they can access the vital services required for their health and well-being. It's a reminder that while Bloomdale offers a peaceful setting, the journey to quality healthcare requires careful consideration of the transportation realities.