45206, Cincinnati, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45206, Cincinnati, Ohio is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.35 percent of residents in 45206 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Of Cincinnati Medical Center, Llc with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 45206

Deciphering healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like lung cancer, involves more than just proximity to a hospital. It demands a nuanced understanding of **transportation** options, a crucial element in the **healthcare access** equation, especially when considering a potential **moving to Cincinnati**. This write-up analyzes the lung cancer healthcare landscape within and around ZIP Code 45206, focusing on **transportation** logistics, crucial for patients undergoing treatment, and assigns a Lung Cancer Score based on accessibility.

ZIP Code 45206, encompassing parts of Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine and Clifton Heights neighborhoods, presents a unique challenge. While offering a vibrant urban environment, it also necessitates careful consideration of how patients, potentially dealing with debilitating side effects, can reach vital medical appointments. This analysis prioritizes factors like drive times, public transit efficiency, and the availability of alternative **transportation** methods.

The cornerstone of lung cancer care often revolves around the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC), a renowned facility located just east of 45206. Driving to UCMC, typically via I-75 North or Martin Luther King Drive, offers a relatively straightforward route. During off-peak hours, the drive can be completed in under 10 minutes. However, rush hour, especially on I-75, can significantly extend this, potentially doubling the travel time. Navigating the city streets, particularly around the Clifton area, can add further delays, especially during events or construction.

Public **transportation** presents an alternative. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand name Metro, provides bus routes serving 45206. Several routes, including the 1, 17, and 19, offer direct or connecting service to UCMC. The ride time, while dependent on traffic, can range from 20 to 45 minutes. Crucially, Metro buses are ADA-accessible, offering ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor, potentially requiring longer wait times.

Beyond these established routes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand **transportation**. These services provide door-to-door convenience, eliminating the need to navigate bus schedules or parking challenges. The cost, however, can fluctuate based on demand and time of day, adding an unpredictable element to the overall healthcare budget. Medical **transportation** services, such as CareRide and First Transit, specifically cater to patients with mobility limitations. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, providing a vital lifeline for individuals unable to utilize other modes of **transportation**. However, availability and scheduling requirements necessitate advance planning.

Access to specialists and comprehensive cancer care extends beyond UCMC. The region boasts a network of hospitals and clinics, including the Christ Hospital, located southwest of 45206, and various outpatient centers. Driving to Christ Hospital, utilizing I-75 South or Central Parkway, typically takes 15-20 minutes, traffic permitting. Public **transportation** options exist, though they may involve transfers, extending the overall travel time. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services remain viable alternatives, offering flexibility in accessing these additional healthcare resources.

The availability of support services, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, also plays a significant role in the overall healthcare experience. The proximity to these services, coupled with the ease of **transportation**, directly impacts the patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans. Long waits for appointments or difficult **transportation** can lead to missed appointments, impacting treatment outcomes.

Considering these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for 45206 is calculated based on a weighted system. Drive times, public transit efficiency, and the availability of alternative **transportation** methods receive varying point allocations. The score also considers the presence of ADA-accessible features on public transit and the availability of specialized medical **transportation** services.

Based on this assessment, the Lung Cancer Score for 45206 is a 7 out of 10. The proximity to UCMC and the presence of multiple public transit routes contribute positively. However, the potential for traffic delays on I-75, the variability in public transit frequency, and the cost of ride-sharing services slightly detract from the overall score. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a crucial safety net for patients with mobility challenges, bolstering the score.

This score highlights the importance of careful planning for individuals considering **moving to Cincinnati** or those already residing in 45206. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer must proactively assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options. This includes understanding the nuances of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical **transportation**.

Ultimately, the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is inextricably linked to **healthcare access**. For lung cancer patients in 45206, a proactive approach to **transportation** planning is essential for ensuring timely access to treatment and support services. This empowers patients to focus on their health and well-being, fostering a more positive and effective healthcare journey.