44403, Brookfield, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44403, Brookfield, Ohio is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.93 percent of residents in 44403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 9.72 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brookfield, OH (ZIP Code 44403)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is multifaceted. For those contemplating a move to Brookfield, Ohio (ZIP code 44403), and particularly those concerned about prostate cancer care, understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed analysis, acting as a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in Brookfield.

Brookfield, a charming community nestled in Trumbull County, offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, its proximity to specialized medical care, particularly for a condition like prostate cancer, requires careful consideration. This score considers the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. It's about more than just the presence of healthcare facilities; it's about how easily and reliably you can reach them.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

The primary mode of transportation in Brookfield, as in most of the region, is by personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in our score. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in the surrounding cities, primarily in Youngstown, Ohio, and Sharon, Pennsylvania.

For those needing comprehensive cancer care, the journey to the **Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital** is a common destination. This drive, generally via **State Route 7** and then **Interstate 680**, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Another option is the **University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center** in Cleveland, which can take over an hour and a half via **Interstate 80** and **Interstate 480**.

Heading east, the **UPMC Hillman Cancer Center** in Sharon, Pennsylvania, is accessible via **State Route 7** and **State Route 62**, with a drive time of roughly 20 to 30 minutes. This proximity makes it a convenient option for residents. The driving experience is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Brookfield is limited, which significantly impacts our score. The **Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA)** serves the Youngstown area, but its routes within Brookfield are sparse. The availability of public transit to major hospitals and cancer centers is minimal.

The WRTA operates bus routes, but they are primarily designed for local travel and do not provide direct, convenient access to specialized healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the frequency of service on these routes is limited, and the routes themselves may not be directly accessible from all parts of Brookfield.

For individuals with disabilities, the WRTA offers **ADA-compliant services**. This includes buses equipped with ramps and lifts, as well as paratransit services. However, these services require advance booking and may not be readily available for same-day appointments or emergencies. The lack of robust public transit, especially for those with mobility challenges, presents a significant challenge to healthcare access in Brookfield.

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

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the Brookfield area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as **Medicaid-approved providers** and private medical transport companies, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are designed to transport patients who are unable to drive themselves or utilize public transportation. They often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The availability of medical transport services in Brookfield is relatively good. However, it is crucial to research and secure these services in advance, especially for recurring appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Brookfield, Ohio, considers the interplay of all these factors. While the area offers a pleasant living environment, the limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for accessing specialized healthcare services present challenges. The drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers are manageable, but weather conditions and traffic can affect travel times.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional support, but these services come with their own limitations, including cost and availability. For individuals with prostate cancer or those at risk, careful consideration of transportation options is essential.

**Moving to Brookfield: Making an Informed Decision**

For those contemplating a move to Brookfield, it is imperative to assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. If you are comfortable driving and have access to a reliable vehicle, the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities may be acceptable. However, if you rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations, the limited options in Brookfield could present challenges.

Before making a move, it's advisable to research the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area. Contact local healthcare providers to inquire about their patient transportation assistance programs. Consider the proximity of your home to major roads and highways to minimize travel times.

Brookfield offers a tranquil setting, but healthcare access requires careful planning. By understanding the transportation landscape and evaluating your personal needs, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your health and well-being. This "Prostate Cancer Score" is designed to provide the information needed to navigate the healthcare system and ensure access to the best possible care.