44889, Wakeman, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44889, Wakeman, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.48 percent of residents in 44889 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Allen Hospital with a distance of 9.57 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wakeman, Ohio (ZIP Code 44889)

Considering a move to the charming village of Wakeman, Ohio, nestled within the 44889 ZIP code? While the rolling hills and close-knit community offer undeniable appeal, it’s crucial to assess healthcare access, particularly when considering potential health concerns like lung cancer. This write-up provides a detailed "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options to access crucial diagnostic and treatment facilities. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for residents of Wakeman.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the time and effort required to reach specialized medical care. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for lung cancer outcomes, making efficient transportation a vital component of a patient’s journey. This assessment will consider the availability and accessibility of services, providing a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities for those living in or considering a move to Wakeman.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare**

For residents of Wakeman, the most immediate access to specialized lung cancer care lies in nearby cities. The primary route to these facilities is by car, utilizing the network of highways and local roads. The most direct route to larger medical centers in the region involves navigating **US-20**, a major east-west thoroughfare that bisects the village.

Traveling east on US-20, the journey to **Cleveland Clinic’s Avon Hospital** in Avon, Ohio, is approximately a 35-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment options. The drive is relatively straightforward, though potential congestion near Avon can impact travel times.

Venturing west on US-20 leads to **Firelands Regional Medical Center** in Sandusky, Ohio, a journey of roughly 20-25 minutes. Firelands provides oncology services and is a convenient option for residents seeking local care. The drive is generally less congested than the route to Cleveland, making it a potentially quicker option for some.

Further afield, **University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center** in Cleveland offers state-of-the-art cancer treatment. This journey, primarily via **US-20** and then **I-90**, can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic. While offering cutting-edge care, the longer travel time necessitates careful planning.

Smaller, more local healthcare options exist. **Fisher-Titus Medical Center** in Norwalk, Ohio, is a 15-20 minute drive via **State Route 18** and **US-20**. While not a specialized cancer center, it provides primary care and can facilitate referrals to larger facilities.

These drive times, while providing a baseline, are subject to fluctuations based on weather, time of day, and unforeseen circumstances. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Wakeman are limited, posing a significant challenge for those relying on this mode of transportation. The **Lorain County Transit (LCT)** system provides some service within the county, but the routes and frequency are not designed to accommodate frequent trips to healthcare facilities.

While LCT does offer routes that connect to larger cities like Lorain and Elyria, the travel times are significantly longer than driving. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers would make accessing specialized cancer care a lengthy and potentially exhausting process.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. While LCT strives to provide accessible services, the limited routes and potential for delays can still pose challenges. Prospective residents should investigate specific route accessibility and schedule adherence before relying on public transit for regular medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Wakeman area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, as the distance to major medical centers can result in significant fares. While ride-sharing offers convenience, it’s crucial to factor in the potential cost and reliability when assessing its suitability for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved providers**, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility needs. While offering a valuable service, medical transport can be expensive and may require advance booking.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wakeman, Ohio, highlights a mixed bag of healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation is by car, with drive times to regional medical centers ranging from 20 minutes to over an hour. While ride-sharing offers an alternative, its reliability and cost are factors to consider. Public transit presents a significant challenge due to limited routes and long travel times. Medical transport services provide a specialized option, but come with associated costs.

For individuals considering a move to Wakeman, it’s vital to assess their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those with limited mobility or those who cannot drive may face significant challenges in accessing timely and specialized cancer care.

The availability of local primary care providers and the proximity to Firelands Regional Medical Center offer some level of local healthcare access. However, the need to travel to larger facilities for specialized cancer treatment underscores the importance of considering transportation logistics.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Wakeman highlights the need for careful planning and consideration when evaluating healthcare access. While the village offers a desirable lifestyle, potential residents must weigh the convenience of a rural setting against the challenges of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This assessment should be a key factor for those **moving to Wakeman**, ensuring they can secure the vital **healthcare access** needed. The **transportation** options are varied, but their accessibility and reliability are paramount for optimal patient outcomes.