44904, Mansfield, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44904, Mansfield, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.25 percent of residents in 44904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 5.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44904

The air hangs heavy with the weight of concern. Imagine you're considering a move to Mansfield, Ohio, specifically ZIP code 44904. You're a smoker, or perhaps a former one, and the specter of lung cancer looms. Beyond the personal risk factors, a critical consideration becomes healthcare access: how easily can you reach vital medical services for screening, diagnosis, and treatment? This 'Lung Cancer Score' for 44904 delves into the realities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, painting a picture of the challenges and possibilities that await.

Transportation, the lifeblood of healthcare access, is the central theme. In 44904, the landscape unfolds primarily through the lens of personal vehicles. The primary artery is **Interstate 71 (I-71)**, offering a direct route to larger medical centers. However, traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. **U.S. Route 30** and **State Route 13** also play crucial roles, providing access to local hospitals and specialist clinics. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion and delays, particularly during inclement weather, potentially impacting timely healthcare access.

The drive times to key healthcare facilities are a crucial metric. The **OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital**, a primary care provider, is a relatively short drive, usually achievable within 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For more specialized care, such as oncology services, the drive to **Cleveland Clinic Mansfield Hospital** might extend to 20-30 minutes. The **James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center** in Columbus, a major cancer treatment center, necessitates a drive of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-71. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, especially for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

Public transit options in 44904, while present, are less robust. The **Richland County Richland County Transit (RCT)** offers bus routes within the county. However, the network is limited, and frequency can be a concern. Routes are available, but their coverage may not extend to all residential areas, and the schedules might not align with the demands of medical appointments. While RCT strives for ADA accessibility, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, the inherent limitations of public transit in a primarily car-dependent area must be acknowledged. For those without personal vehicles, relying solely on public transit for healthcare access in 44904 presents a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the Mansfield area. They offer a degree of flexibility and convenience, particularly for those unable to drive. However, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, becoming a financial burden for frequent medical appointments. This factor further complicates the healthcare access equation for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specializing in patient transport, offer an alternative. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be a lifeline for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and scheduling requirements necessitate advance planning, and the cost, while sometimes covered by insurance, can still pose a barrier.

Moving to Mansfield, especially for individuals with pre-existing health concerns, demands a thorough assessment of these transportation realities. The Lung Cancer Score isn't simply a number; it's a reflection of the practical challenges. It's about understanding the time commitment, the financial implications, and the potential stress associated with getting to and from medical appointments.

The availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. While Cleveland Clinic Mansfield Hospital provides oncology services, access to comprehensive cancer centers like the James Cancer Hospital in Columbus requires a longer commute. This distance can impact the timeliness of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, within the local community also becomes a critical consideration.

The overall "score" for 44904, regarding healthcare access for lung cancer patients, is a mixed bag. The presence of local hospitals and some specialized services is positive. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transportation services introduce significant hurdles. The longer commute times to major cancer centers further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering a move to 44904, a proactive approach is essential. Researching the specific healthcare providers in the area, understanding the transportation options, and assessing the potential costs are crucial steps. Exploring insurance coverage for medical transportation services and identifying local support groups can also help mitigate some of the challenges.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for 44904 is not a static assessment. It's a dynamic evaluation that evolves with individual circumstances and the availability of resources. For those facing the potential of lung cancer, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and the healthcare access it provides is not just practical; it's a matter of health and well-being. The decision to move to Mansfield should include a comprehensive evaluation of these factors, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to timely and effective care.