44308, Akron, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44308, Akron, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.56 percent of residents in 44308 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Akron General Medical Center with a distance of 0.68 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44308

The decision to move to a new city is multifaceted, especially when considering healthcare access. For individuals residing in or contemplating a move to ZIP Code 44308 in Akron, Ohio, understanding the landscape of prostate cancer care is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare facilities, culminating in a "Prostate Cancer Score" to help assess the ease of accessing crucial medical services.

Akron, a city steeped in industrial history, offers a blend of urban and suburban living. The 44308 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Goodyear Heights and portions of Firestone Park, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access, particularly for those facing prostate cancer. Factors like age, mobility, and financial constraints influence the ability to reach medical appointments. This analysis delves into the intricacies of transportation, highlighting the available options and their impact on healthcare access.

One of the primary considerations is drive time. The major thoroughfares in and around 44308 are crucial. Interstate 76 (I-76) and Interstate 77 (I-77) serve as the primary arteries, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Traveling west on I-76 provides access to Summa Health System's Akron Campus, a major healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive, depending on traffic, can range from 10 to 20 minutes. Similarly, heading south on I-77 offers access to Cleveland Clinic Akron General, another prominent healthcare institution, typically within a 15 to 25-minute drive. Local roads, such as East Market Street, allow for more direct routes, although traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.

Public transportation, provided by the Akron Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (METRO), offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. METRO operates several bus routes that traverse 44308. Route 1, for example, travels along East Market Street, connecting residents to downtown Akron and various medical facilities. Route 7 provides access to the Akron-Canton Airport, while Route 10 travels north-south. METRO buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Waiting times can sometimes exceed 30 minutes, adding to the overall travel time and potentially impacting the timeliness of medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who prefer door-to-door service. These services are readily available in Akron, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of drivers can also fluctuate, potentially leading to delays, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver density. Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and other specialized companies, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, offering a more personalized and supportive transportation experience.

Considering the available transportation options, healthcare access in 44308 presents a mixed bag. The proximity to major highways offers relatively quick access to large medical centers, but reliance on personal vehicles can be a barrier for some. Public transportation provides an affordable alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and coverage can pose challenges. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but come with a higher price tag. Medical transportation services offer specialized support but may not be readily available or affordable for all.

The healthcare landscape in Akron is dominated by two major players: Summa Health System and Cleveland Clinic Akron General. Both offer comprehensive prostate cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Summa Health System's Akron Campus provides a wide range of services, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. Cleveland Clinic Akron General offers similar services, with a focus on advanced technologies and specialized expertise. The availability of specialists, such as urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, is generally good in the Akron area. However, the wait times for appointments can vary depending on the specialist and the complexity of the case.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 44308 considers the following factors: drive time to major healthcare facilities, public transportation accessibility, availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transportation options. It also accounts for the availability of prostate cancer specialists and the overall quality of care provided by local healthcare providers.

**Prostate Cancer Score for 44308:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Access to major hospitals via I-76 and I-77 is generally efficient, but traffic can impact travel times.
* **Public Transportation:** Moderate. METRO provides bus service, but frequency and coverage limitations exist.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Good. Uber and Lyft are readily available, but cost is a factor.
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate. Specialized services are available, but availability and cost may vary.
* **Healthcare Provider Access:** Good. Both Summa Health System and Cleveland Clinic Akron General offer comprehensive prostate cancer care.

**Overall Score:** 7 out of 10.

This score reflects a reasonable level of healthcare access in 44308, with the caveat that individual circumstances and transportation needs may significantly impact the experience. Individuals considering moving to Akron or residing in this ZIP code should carefully assess their transportation capabilities, financial resources, and specific healthcare needs. Proactive planning, including researching transportation options, identifying preferred healthcare providers, and establishing a support network, is essential for ensuring seamless access to prostate cancer care. This knowledge empowers informed decision-making, facilitating a smoother transition and improving the overall healthcare experience.