45872, North Baltimore, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45872, North Baltimore, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.28 percent of residents in 45872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 13.39 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in North Baltimore, Ohio (ZIP Code 45872)

The air in North Baltimore, Ohio, is often thick with the scent of industry, a constant reminder of the town's economic engine. But beyond the familiar smells and the comforting hum of small-town life, a crucial aspect of well-being demands our attention: access to healthcare, specifically for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 45872, focusing on the challenges and opportunities they face when seeking vital medical care. The aim is to paint a realistic picture of **healthcare access** and its impact on those potentially **moving to North Baltimore**.

The very nature of lung cancer treatment necessitates frequent and often lengthy appointments. Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and follow-up visits can stretch over months, even years. For residents of North Baltimore, the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is not just a convenience; it’s a matter of survival. A delayed appointment, a missed scan, or a cancelled treatment due to transportation woes can have devastating consequences.

The primary artery for travel in and out of North Baltimore is Interstate 75. This major north-south thoroughfare provides the most direct route to larger medical centers in Findlay, approximately 15 miles to the north, and Bowling Green, roughly 30 miles south. The drive to Findlay, typically taking 20-30 minutes, offers access to Blanchard Valley Hospital, which provides comprehensive cancer care. The journey to Bowling Green, usually a 35-45 minute drive, opens doors to Wood County Hospital, another potential healthcare provider.

However, relying solely on I-75 presents its own set of challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. Accidents, weather conditions, and construction projects can further complicate matters, potentially causing delays that could jeopardize critical appointments. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a burden on those who may be physically impaired, elderly, or lack access to a car.

Alternative routes, though less direct, offer some relief. State Route 18, running east-west, provides a connection to nearby towns and potentially shorter routes to some healthcare facilities, though it is often a slower and less reliable option. County roads, such as Township Road 234 and County Road 24, offer a network of local roads that can be useful for shorter trips or as detours around traffic, but they are often poorly maintained and can be difficult to navigate, especially during inclement weather.

Public transportation options in North Baltimore and the surrounding areas are limited. The Wood County Senior Center offers some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these services are often restricted by eligibility requirements and may not be readily available for all medical appointments. There is no readily available public transit system in North Baltimore. The absence of a robust public transit infrastructure underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals undergoing extensive medical treatment. The financial strain of healthcare, coupled with the expense of transportation, can create a vicious cycle, hindering access to necessary care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, but these services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for North Baltimore, therefore, reflects a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create a challenging environment for individuals seeking lung cancer treatment. The drive times to major medical centers, while manageable under ideal conditions, are subject to delays and disruptions.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that must consider individual circumstances. Factors such as age, physical condition, financial resources, and social support networks significantly impact a patient’s ability to access healthcare. A patient with a supportive family and a reliable vehicle will likely fare better than an elderly individual with limited mobility and no access to transportation.

For those considering **moving to North Baltimore**, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical consideration. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer, must carefully evaluate the **healthcare access** landscape. They should assess the availability of transportation options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the potential financial burden of accessing care.

The need for improvements in **transportation** infrastructure is clear. Investing in public transit options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation programs could significantly enhance **healthcare access** for residents of North Baltimore. Increased awareness of available resources, coupled with proactive community initiatives, could empower individuals to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for North Baltimore, Ohio, reveals a landscape where access to healthcare is a matter of navigating a complex web of transportation options. While the town offers access to medical facilities via I-75, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation create significant challenges. Improving transportation infrastructure, increasing awareness of available resources, and fostering community support are crucial steps towards ensuring that all residents of North Baltimore have equal access to the life-saving care they need. This is particularly important for those considering **moving to North Baltimore**, as they must understand the realities of accessing healthcare in this community.