44853, New Riegel, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44853, New Riegel, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.03 percent of residents in 44853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44853 (New Riegel, Ohio)**

The air in New Riegel, Ohio (ZIP Code 44853), carries the scent of farmland, a gentle reminder of the rural heartland. However, for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this Seneca County community is juxtaposed with the critical need for timely healthcare access. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical facilities, thereby contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score reflects the practical challenges of navigating the healthcare system, especially for those whose mobility may be compromised. Considering a move to New Riegel? Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial.

The primary challenge for residents of 44853 is the distance to specialized medical centers. The closest major hospitals with comprehensive oncology services are located in nearby cities, necessitating travel. The primary route for most residents involves navigating the network of state and county roads.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. The most direct route to the healthcare hubs involves utilizing **State Route 18** and **U.S. Route 224**. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical appointments. The drive to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, the drive to more specialized facilities in larger cities like Toledo or Columbus can extend to over an hour, demanding careful planning and potentially adding stress for patients.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. Seneca County does offer a public transit system, but it is not designed to meet the needs of those with complex medical requirements. The system, which is designed to accommodate ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. The limited service area and the need for pre-booking make it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for patients with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent transportation. The reliability of these services is another concern.

Medical transportation services, specializing in non-emergency medical transport, offer a more tailored solution. Companies such as MedTransport and First Medical Transport provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility limitations, offering door-to-door service and assistance with medical equipment. However, these services come at a cost, which may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The accessibility of healthcare is a critical determinant of the "Lung Cancer Score." For residents of 44853, the score is impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The distance to specialized medical facilities, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, adds to the complexity of accessing timely care.

For individuals considering a move to New Riegel, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access should be carefully evaluated. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the need to travel for specialized medical care is a significant factor to consider. Prospective residents should research the availability and cost of transportation options, including ride-sharing, medical transport services, and the potential for assistance from local support organizations.

Furthermore, the availability of support services for cancer patients is a crucial element of the "Lung Cancer Score." Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the local chapter of the Cancer Support Community offer resources and assistance, including transportation support. These organizations can help patients navigate the healthcare system, provide financial assistance, and offer emotional support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 44853 reflects the intricate interplay of transportation infrastructure, healthcare access, and community support. While the community offers a sense of tranquility, the need for long-distance travel to access specialized medical care presents a significant challenge. The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The journey to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, though relatively short, requires navigating **State Route 18** and potentially dealing with traffic. The longer drives to facilities in larger cities, such as Toledo or Columbus, necessitate careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns. The use of **U.S. Route 224** can also be a factor in the commute.

The absence of robust public transit options adds to the transportation burden. The limited demand-response service in Seneca County, while ADA-compliant, is not ideally suited for frequent medical appointments or urgent care needs. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the potential challenges for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are another consideration. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, their availability can be unpredictable, and the cost can be a barrier for some patients. The need for pre-planning and the potential for delays can also add to the stress of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services provide a more specialized solution, offering door-to-door service and assistance with medical equipment. However, these services come at a cost, which may not be covered by all insurance plans. The need to navigate insurance coverage and the potential for out-of-pocket expenses can add to the financial burden on patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of residents facing a cancer diagnosis. The score encapsulates the challenges of accessing timely care, the stress of navigating transportation options, and the importance of community support. For those considering a move to New Riegel, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 44853 is influenced by the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing, and the need for specialized medical transport services all contribute to the score. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the potential for traffic delays, and the importance of community support are also key considerations. For individuals considering a move to New Riegel, a comprehensive assessment of these factors is essential to ensure access to timely and effective healthcare.