44854, New Washington, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44854, New Washington, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.44 percent of residents in 44854 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Willard Hospital with a distance of 9.52 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44854

The decision to relocate, especially when considering health needs, demands meticulous planning. This assessment, the “Lung Cancer Score,” focuses on transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 44854, New Washington, Ohio. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals considering a move, particularly those managing or at risk of lung cancer, where timely access to specialized care is paramount. We'll explore the practicalities of getting to vital appointments and treatments, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport.

New Washington, a small village, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. Its rural setting influences the available transportation choices and the proximity of specialized medical facilities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the practicality of navigating the healthcare landscape, considering the potential impact of limited options on patient well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary challenge in 44854 is the distance to specialized lung cancer care. The nearest major medical centers are located in larger cities, requiring travel on various roadways. The most direct route to the Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized cancer center, necessitates a drive of approximately 100 miles, predominantly via US-224 East, merging onto I-71 North. This journey, under ideal conditions, can take around two hours. Traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather, can significantly extend this travel time.

Another option involves traveling to the OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, roughly 20 miles away. This journey primarily utilizes OH-603 South and can be completed in approximately 30 minutes. While closer, this hospital may not offer the same level of specialized lung cancer expertise as larger urban centers. The choice of destination will depend on the specific treatment needs and the availability of specialized services.

Accessing the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland requires a similar route to the Cleveland Clinic, utilizing I-71 North. The drive time remains comparable, approximately two hours. The condition of the roadways, including potential construction zones, should always be considered when planning travel.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in 44854 are extremely limited. The rural nature of the area means that readily available public transit, like buses or trains, is virtually nonexistent. This lack of a public transportation network significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Individuals relying on public transportation would face considerable challenges in reaching specialized cancer care. The absence of regular routes necessitates reliance on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation, which can be expensive and may not be readily available. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any potential public transit options further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of using ride-sharing for long-distance trips to Cleveland or other major medical centers can be substantial, creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services provide a more specialized option for patients requiring assistance with travel. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services in 44854 may be limited, and patients should confirm service areas and pricing beforehand.

**Healthcare Access and Lung Cancer Care:**

The availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. While the OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital offers some cancer services, the comprehensive treatment options and expertise found at larger facilities like the Cleveland Clinic or University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center are often essential for optimal care.

The distance to these specialized centers, coupled with the limited transportation options, presents a significant challenge for residents of 44854. Patients may face long travel times, potentially impacting their ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive timely care. This can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, which can negatively affect patient outcomes.

**Moving to New Washington: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

Individuals considering moving to New Washington, Ohio, with a history of or risk factors for lung cancer must carefully assess the implications of the transportation landscape. The lack of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transportation services require careful consideration.

Before making a move, prospective residents should research the availability of specialized lung cancer care, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapists, at nearby medical centers. They should also investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

It is crucial to factor in the potential for long travel times and the associated stress and inconvenience. The ability to maintain regular appointments and receive timely treatment is vital for managing lung cancer effectively.

**Conclusion: The Lung Cancer Score for 44854**

The Lung Cancer Score for 44854 reflects the challenges presented by limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical facilities. The absence of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

Individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully weigh these factors when considering a move to New Washington. A thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs, the availability of specialized care, and the practicality of navigating the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring their well-being and access to timely, effective treatment. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need to prioritize healthcare access when making relocation decisions. The success of healthcare access in 44854 is a complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the individual needs of those moving to New Washington.