44285, Wayland, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44285, Wayland, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.00 percent of residents in 44285 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44285

The ZIP code 44285, encompassing the charming village of Wayland, Ohio, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for men concerned about prostate cancer. This analysis, a "Prostate Cancer Score," considers the critical elements of transportation and healthcare infrastructure, offering insights for residents and those contemplating a move to Wayland. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The most significant factor influencing the Prostate Cancer Score is transportation. Wayland, nestled in Portage County, is primarily a rural community. This means that while the air is fresh and the pace of life is slower, the journey to specialized medical services often requires navigating significant distances. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount, making the condition of roads and the availability of parking crucial.

The primary artery connecting Wayland to larger population centers is State Route 14. This two-lane highway, though generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near intersections with other major routes. Heading west on Route 14 provides access to the city of Ravenna, where some primary care physicians and general medical services are available. However, for specialized urological care and advanced treatments, the journey extends further.

To reach the Cleveland Clinic, a leading institution for cancer care, the most direct route involves heading north on State Route 14, merging onto the Ohio Turnpike (I-80), and then navigating through the city. This drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. The Ohio Turnpike requires a toll, adding to the overall cost of transportation. Traffic, particularly during rush hour, can significantly extend this travel time. The Cleveland Clinic offers comprehensive prostate cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, and radiation therapy.

Another option for accessing healthcare is University Hospitals, also in Cleveland. The route to University Hospitals is similar, involving travel on the Ohio Turnpike or a combination of local roads and highways. The drive time is comparable to the Cleveland Clinic, typically around one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Both the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals provide a full spectrum of prostate cancer care, making them key destinations for residents of 44285.

Public transportation options in Wayland are limited. Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus services in Portage County. However, these routes are primarily designed to serve the larger towns and cities in the county and do not offer direct, frequent service to Wayland. Furthermore, the routes and schedules are subject to change, and the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a critical consideration for patients with mobility challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles is almost absolute.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability in Wayland is variable. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. This can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. Patients needing regular transportation for appointments or treatments cannot solely rely on ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. However, these services come at a cost and require advance booking. The availability of medical transport in Wayland is another factor influencing the Prostate Cancer Score.

The availability of local healthcare providers in Wayland itself is a crucial aspect of the score. While Wayland may have primary care physicians, the availability of urologists and oncologists is limited. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers for specialized care. The proximity of Wayland to Ravenna provides access to some general medical services, but the need for more specialized care drives residents towards the Cleveland area.

The overall condition of the roads in and around Wayland impacts the Prostate Cancer Score. Potholes, poor road surfaces, and inadequate lighting can pose challenges, particularly for patients with physical limitations or those driving at night. Road maintenance and infrastructure improvements are essential for ensuring safe and reliable transportation.

The economic factors associated with healthcare access in Wayland also contribute to the Prostate Cancer Score. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, tolls on the Ohio Turnpike, and the potential expense of ride-sharing or medical transport services all add to the financial burden of healthcare. These costs can be a significant barrier to care, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those without adequate health insurance.

For those considering moving to Wayland, the Prostate Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should factor in the travel time to medical facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the associated costs. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare services is a crucial step in making an informed decision about relocating.

The Prostate Cancer Score for 44285 reflects the challenges inherent in accessing specialized healthcare in a rural environment. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the journey to prostate cancer care requires careful consideration of transportation logistics, financial resources, and the availability of support services. Residents and prospective movers must weigh these factors to ensure they can effectively manage their healthcare needs. The reliance on personal transportation and the limited public transit options underscore the importance of individual preparedness and the need for community resources to support those seeking prostate cancer care.