44902, Mansfield, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44902, Mansfield, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.74 percent of residents in 44902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 0.87 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44902

The air hangs heavy with the weight of worry for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Within the 44902 ZIP code, a complex web of factors dictates the ease with which individuals can access vital healthcare. This 'Lung Cancer Score' assesses the accessibility of crucial services, focusing on transportation, a critical component of healthcare access, especially when considering the physical and emotional toll of this disease. We'll explore the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions available, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those moving to Mansfield, Ohio, and seeking care.

The journey to treatment often begins with a drive. From various points within 44902, the primary destination for specialized lung cancer care is typically the OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, located at 335 Glessner Ave. The time spent behind the wheel can significantly impact a patient’s well-being, adding stress and fatigue to an already difficult situation.

From the northern reaches of 44902, a drive to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital involves navigating a combination of local roads and major thoroughfares. Residents near Lexington-Springmill Road, for example, might utilize that road to connect with **U.S. Route 30** (US-30). This highway offers a relatively direct route, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend the travel time. The hospital itself is readily accessible from US-30, requiring a turn onto Glessner Avenue. The drive, in ideal conditions, might take 10-15 minutes, yet during rush hour, this could easily stretch to 20-25 minutes.

For those residing in the southern areas of 44902, the route might involve a journey along **State Route 39** (SR-39) or **State Route 97** (SR-97). These roads offer alternative pathways to the hospital, though they may involve more turns and potential delays at intersections. The distance to the hospital is generally greater from these locations, and travel times could range from 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.

Public transportation, an essential lifeline for many, presents a more complex picture. The Richland County Richland County Transit (RCT) operates within Mansfield, offering bus routes that can provide access to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. However, the coverage and frequency of these routes are limited. Individuals with lung cancer often face debilitating symptoms, making the use of public transit a significant challenge.

The primary bus route serving the hospital is likely Route 1, though the specific route details and schedules are readily available on the RCT website or through their customer service. The frequency of buses on this route is typically hourly, and the service may not operate on weekends or evenings. This limited schedule can be a major impediment for those needing frequent appointments or emergency care. ADA accessibility, including ramps and designated seating, is a crucial feature of the RCT buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the overall limitations in frequency and coverage remain a significant hurdle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential transportation option. The availability of these services in Mansfield, Ohio, is generally good, providing a more flexible alternative to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments, and this financial burden can be a significant concern for individuals facing the high costs associated with cancer treatment. The reliability of ride-sharing services can also be a factor, with potential delays or cancellations impacting a patient's schedule.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles, and may be equipped with medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the Mansfield area, including local ambulance services and specialized non-emergency medical transport companies. These services, while offering enhanced support, typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of these services, especially during evenings and weekends, can also be a factor.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 44902, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital is accessible, the transportation options available present a spectrum of challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering the most direct route, can be difficult for those experiencing fatigue or mobility issues. Public transit, while offering a more affordable option, is limited in frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing provides flexibility but can be expensive. Medical transport services offer specialized care but are the most costly.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for 44902 would need to consider the individual circumstances of each patient. Factors such as their physical condition, financial resources, and access to social support all play a role in determining their ability to access healthcare. For those moving to Mansfield, Ohio, with a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of options, including readily available and affordable ride-sharing, reliable and frequent public transit, and access to medical transport when necessary. Improving healthcare access in 44902 requires ongoing efforts to enhance public transit, expand ride-sharing availability, and ensure the affordability of medical transport services. This is especially critical given the often complex and time-sensitive nature of lung cancer treatment. The goal is to create a system that minimizes the burden of transportation, allowing patients to focus on their health and well-being.