44266, Ravenna, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44266, Ravenna, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.64 percent of residents in 44266 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ravenna, OH (ZIP Code 44266)

Considering a move to Ravenna, Ohio (ZIP code 44266), and concerned about prostate cancer healthcare access? This report analyzes the transportation landscape and healthcare options, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to help you understand the ease of accessing crucial medical services. This score is a subjective assessment based on the availability and accessibility of transportation options, proximity to specialized care, and the overall convenience of navigating the healthcare system.

Ravenna, a charming Portage County seat, presents a unique blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger urban centers. Your ability to efficiently reach medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is paramount, especially when dealing with a serious condition like prostate cancer. This analysis considers the primary modes of transportation: personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.

**The Importance of Transportation**

Transportation is the lifeblood of healthcare access. The ability to get to appointments, undergo treatments, and receive follow-up care is essential for effective management of prostate cancer. Delays or difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure in Ravenna and its surrounding areas is crucial.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in Ravenna is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town is well-connected by major roadways. Accessing specialized prostate cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Akron or Cleveland.

From Ravenna, the drive to Akron's major hospitals, such as Summa Health System's Akron Campus or Cleveland Clinic Akron General, is typically around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route involves taking State Route 14, which connects to Interstate 76, and then transitioning onto Interstate 77 to reach Akron.

Cleveland, home to the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic, is a slightly longer journey. Expect a drive time of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, using State Route 14 to Interstate 480 West, which connects to Interstate 77 North. This route provides relatively direct access to the Cleveland Clinic's main campus.

The drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can also pose challenges, potentially delaying or disrupting travel plans.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation in Ravenna and Portage County is limited but available. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus services throughout the county. PARTA offers fixed-route services, with some routes connecting Ravenna to Kent and other surrounding communities.

While PARTA's routes may not directly serve hospitals in Akron or Cleveland, they provide a crucial link for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. It is essential to check PARTA's schedules and routes to determine the feasibility of using public transit for medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transportation. PARTA is committed to providing accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and other accommodations. However, the frequency of service and the time required to reach medical facilities using public transit may be a significant factor for individuals with prostate cancer, who may require frequent appointments and treatments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ravenna, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide or other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. While medical transport provides a valuable service, it can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access and Prostate Cancer Specialists**

The proximity to specialized prostate cancer care is a critical factor. Ravenna itself does not have specialized prostate cancer treatment centers. Therefore, residents must travel to larger medical centers in Akron or Cleveland.

Akron hospitals, such as Summa Health and Cleveland Clinic Akron General, offer comprehensive cancer care, including urology departments and oncology services. Cleveland Clinic, with its main campus in Cleveland, is a world-renowned institution for cancer treatment, offering cutting-edge technologies and a wide range of specialists.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment**

Considering the transportation options and healthcare access in Ravenna, we assign a preliminary "Prostate Cancer Score." This score is a subjective assessment based on the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. The drive to Akron is generally manageable, but Cleveland is further.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. PARTA provides some service, but direct routes to specialized care are lacking.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available but potentially costly and subject to availability.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but expensive.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** Requires travel to Akron or Cleveland.

Based on these factors, we assign a preliminary "Prostate Cancer Score" of **6 out of 10**. This score suggests that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Residents of Ravenna will likely need to rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport to access specialized prostate cancer care.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Ravenna**

* **Assess Your Transportation Needs:** If you anticipate needing frequent medical appointments, evaluate your ability to drive or access reliable transportation.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Familiarize yourself with PARTA's routes and schedules.
* **Research Ride-Sharing Availability:** Determine the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in Ravenna.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Services:** If necessary, research medical transport providers and their costs.
* **Choose a Healthcare Provider:** Select a primary care physician in Ravenna and establish a referral pathway to urology and oncology specialists in Akron or Cleveland.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your health insurance plan covers transportation costs and the services of specialists in Akron or Cleveland.

**Conclusion**

Moving to Ravenna presents a lifestyle choice with inherent tradeoffs. While the town offers a peaceful environment, access to specialized prostate cancer care requires careful consideration of transportation. By understanding the available options, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare needs and ensure you can effectively manage your health. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a starting point for your assessment, and further research and planning are recommended to ensure a smooth transition and access to the healthcare you require.