43840, Stone Creek, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 43840, Stone Creek, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.39 percent of residents in 43840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 10.73 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stone Creek (ZIP Code 43840)

The quaint village of Stone Creek, Ohio (ZIP Code 43840), nestled amidst rolling hills and the tranquil Tuscarawas River, offers a serene lifestyle. But when faced with a serious health concern like prostate cancer, the reality of healthcare access becomes paramount. This write-up explores the transportation landscape surrounding prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment for residents of Stone Creek, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all contributing to a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease of accessing vital medical care.

The score, though not a formal metric, reflects the relative challenges and advantages in navigating the healthcare system from Stone Creek. Factors like distance, mode of transportation, and accessibility features are considered. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Stone Creek, as understanding healthcare access is a critical component of any relocation decision.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

For residents of Stone Creek, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to specialized prostate cancer care often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The primary artery is **Ohio State Route 256**, which connects Stone Creek to larger towns and cities. Heading east on 256, the drive to Dover, Ohio, home to Union Hospital, a potential site for initial diagnosis and some treatment, is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Further specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, might necessitate travel to Canton, Ohio, approximately 45 minutes away via **Interstate 77 North**. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours. The **Ohio State Route 39** offers an alternative, albeit slightly longer, route to Canton, bypassing some of the I-77 traffic.

For more comprehensive care, including access to clinical trials or specialized oncology centers, Cleveland, Ohio, approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive via I-77 North, becomes a consideration. This extended drive time underscores the importance of early detection and proactive planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within and around Stone Creek are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

The Tuscarawas County Transportation System (TCTS) provides demand-response service within the county. While TCTS can potentially transport residents to medical appointments, it requires advance booking and may involve longer travel times due to the need to accommodate multiple passengers. The TCTS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the potential for delays should be carefully considered.

The nearest major public transit hub is likely in Canton, Ohio, where the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) operates a network of bus routes. However, the connection between Stone Creek and Canton via public transit would likely involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, making it less practical for regular medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Stone Creek area, though their reliability and availability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This is an important consideration when relying on ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may offer assistance with mobility. However, the cost of medical transportation can be significant, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Stone Creek, considering the transportation landscape, is best described as moderate. While the proximity to Dover and Canton offers access to initial diagnosis and treatment options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but they come with potential limitations in terms of cost, availability, and reliability.

**Implications for Moving to Stone Creek**

For individuals considering moving to Stone Creek, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. The ability to drive and the availability of a reliable vehicle are significant advantages. Proactive planning, including identifying local healthcare providers and understanding the available transportation options, is essential.

The score highlights the importance of early detection and regular check-ups. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area is a critical first step. This physician can provide referrals to specialists and help navigate the healthcare system.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Living in Stone Creek offers a peaceful and close-knit community. However, when facing a health challenge like prostate cancer, residents must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape to access the necessary care. The availability of healthcare access directly impacts the quality of life for Stone Creek residents.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive healthcare planning and the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents, regardless of their location or mode of transportation. This includes advocating for improved public transit options, supporting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transportation services for those who need them.