45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.73 percent of residents in 45816 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Benton Ridge (ZIP Code 45816)

The air in Benton Ridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 45816), holds the promise of rural tranquility. Yet, for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, that serenity can be shattered by the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the available **transportation** options to facilitate **healthcare access** for those living in this community. It is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating **moving to Benton Ridge**, especially those with existing health concerns.

The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare landscape. We aim to illuminate the realities of accessing potentially life-saving treatments and diagnostic services. The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing access to care.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Benton Ridge, the primary access to specialized medical care hinges on personal vehicles. The nearest major medical centers are in Findlay, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, and Lima, about 30-40 minutes away. The primary route to Findlay involves navigating **Ohio State Route 613** and connecting to **Interstate 75 North**. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours.

The journey to Lima utilizes **Ohio State Route 613** and merges onto **Ohio State Route 115** before connecting to **Ohio State Route 309**. This route is generally less congested than the I-75 corridor but is longer, increasing the time and potential stress for patients. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

For those requiring specialized oncology services, the drive to larger hospitals in Toledo or Columbus becomes a significant undertaking. Toledo, roughly an hour and fifteen minutes away, requires navigating **Interstate 75 North**. Columbus, a two-hour drive, necessitates using **Ohio State Route 12** to **U.S. Route 30 East**, and then **U.S. Route 23 South**. Such journeys necessitate careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical condition and the potential for fatigue.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in Benton Ridge are exceedingly limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Hancock Area Transportation Service (HATS) provides demand-response services within Hancock County, which includes Benton Ridge. However, these services require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical appointments. The service operates Monday through Friday, with limited weekend availability.

The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ARTA) serves Lima and the surrounding area. However, its reach into Benton Ridge is minimal. ARTA's routes are primarily focused on serving the city of Lima, making it a less viable option for residents needing to travel to Findlay or other regional healthcare facilities. The availability of wheelchair-accessible buses is present, adhering to ADA guidelines.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals who are unable to drive or who cannot afford a personal vehicle. This lack of public **transportation** severely limits **healthcare access** and can disproportionately affect elderly residents or those with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. This factor can impact **healthcare access** for those with limited financial resources.

Several medical **transportation** services operate in the region, specifically catering to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation** and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing. The availability of medical **transportation** is crucial for those with mobility limitations or those who are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide:** This company provides non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Call Medical Transport:** Specializes in non-emergency medical **transportation** with a focus on patient comfort and safety.
* **Medicaid Transportation:** Medicaid recipients may have access to free or subsidized medical **transportation** through the Ohio Department of Medicaid.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Benton Ridge (ZIP Code 45816) reflects a landscape where **healthcare access** is significantly influenced by **transportation** limitations. While the proximity to Findlay offers relatively quick access to some medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** pose significant challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Benton Ridge**, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is crucial. The availability of reliable and affordable **transportation** is essential for accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for proactive planning, emphasizing the importance of researching available **transportation** options, establishing a support network, and exploring financial assistance programs to ensure **healthcare access** in this rural community. Addressing these challenges is critical to improving the quality of life for residents facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.