45144, Manchester, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45144, Manchester, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.80 percent of residents in 45144 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 35.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Manchester, Ohio (ZIP Code 45144)

Considering a move to Manchester, Ohio (ZIP Code 45144)? Assessing your healthcare access, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this disease. It analyzes drive times, public transit availability, and ride-share/medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of your healthcare journey. This is especially critical for those considering a relocation, as the ease of accessing specialized care directly impacts quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment, factoring in the time and effort required to reach facilities offering pulmonology, oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. It considers factors like road conditions, traffic patterns, and the availability of alternative transportation modes. A higher score suggests more convenient access, while a lower score indicates potential challenges.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Route**

Manchester, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary route to specialized lung cancer care involves driving. The closest hospital with oncology services is likely the Adams County Regional Medical Center (ACRMC) in Seaman, Ohio. This is a relatively short drive, typically around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. You would primarily utilize **Ohio State Route 52** and **Ohio State Route 247** for this journey.

However, ACRMC may not offer the full spectrum of lung cancer treatments. For more comprehensive care, you'll likely need to travel further. The closest major healthcare hub is in Cincinnati, approximately 80-100 miles away, depending on the specific destination within the city. This trip would involve a combination of **Ohio State Route 52**, merging onto **U.S. Route 52**, and then connecting to **State Route 32** or **U.S. Route 50** to access Cincinnati.

The drive to Cincinnati can take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, heavily influenced by traffic, especially during peak hours. This extended travel time necessitates careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The condition of **Ohio State Route 52** and **U.S. Route 52**, particularly in the winter months, can also impact travel times due to potential snow or ice.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Manchester are extremely limited. There is no readily available public bus system that directly connects Manchester to Cincinnati or other major healthcare providers. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive due to their condition.

The absence of reliable public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals needing regular treatments. Consider the added burden of coordinating rides and the potential delays associated with relying on others. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any potential local transit options further compounds the difficulty for individuals with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Manchester area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness for long-distance travel to Cincinnati are questionable. Availability can be inconsistent, and the cost of a round trip could be substantial. This makes them a less-than-ideal solution for regular appointments.

Medical transport services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, represent a more viable option. Several companies operate in the region, including but not limited to, companies such as Care Ride or First Choice Medical Transportation. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may require advance booking.

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

Considering the factors above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Manchester, Ohio (45144) is moderate to low. While ACRMC in Seaman provides a closer option, the limited scope of services necessitates travel to Cincinnati for comprehensive lung cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public **transportation**, and the potential cost and availability challenges of ride-share and medical transport services contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access scenario.

The score is influenced by several elements. Firstly, the distance to Cincinnati, a major medical center, is a significant factor. Secondly, the absence of robust public transit limits options for those without personal vehicles. Thirdly, the cost and availability of ride-share and medical transport services can create barriers to access. Finally, the potential for inclement weather to impact road conditions adds another layer of complexity.

**Implications for Moving to Manchester**

For individuals considering **moving to Manchester**, this "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration. If you have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, thoroughly assessing your transportation options and healthcare needs is crucial.

Consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential for accessing specialized care.
* **Financial Planning:** Budget for potential transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and the potential use of ride-share or medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Family/Support:** Having family or friends who can provide transportation assistance can significantly improve your healthcare access.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify your insurance coverage for transportation services and out-of-network care if necessary.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Investigate the specific lung cancer specialists and treatment centers in Cincinnati and assess their suitability for your needs.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Living in Manchester offers a unique lifestyle, but healthcare access, especially for a serious condition like lung cancer, requires careful consideration. While the drive to ACRMC is manageable, the need for specialized care in Cincinnati presents challenges. The absence of public transit and the potential cost and availability constraints of alternative transportation options contribute to a moderate to low "Lung Cancer Score." For those considering a relocation, a thorough assessment of your individual needs, transportation options, and financial resources is critical to ensure adequate **healthcare access**. This proactive approach will help you navigate the healthcare landscape and prioritize your well-being in your new community.