44427, Kensington, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 44427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kensington (ZIP Code 44427)

The decision to relocate, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, involves a complex calculus. For individuals considering moving to Kensington, Ohio (ZIP Code 44427), the availability and accessibility of healthcare, specifically urological care, is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of the "Prostate Cancer Score" for this ZIP code, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a critical element for anyone contemplating moving to Kensington.

Kensington, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access. While the town itself may not boast a comprehensive medical center, the surrounding areas offer specialized care. The “Prostate Cancer Score” will evaluate the ease of reaching urologists, oncologists, and related services, factoring in various transportation methods.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Open Road to Care**

The primary mode of transportation in Kensington is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The ability to drive to appointments significantly influences the "Prostate Cancer Score." Residents rely on a network of highways and local roads to reach specialized medical facilities.

The most direct route to larger hospitals and urology practices often involves navigating **State Route 180**, a vital artery connecting Kensington to neighboring towns and cities. Driving east on 180 eventually leads to **State Route 11**, a major north-south highway, offering access to medical centers in Youngstown and surrounding areas. Expect travel times to vary depending on traffic and the specific destination. For instance, a routine appointment in Youngstown could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, barring unforeseen delays.

Alternatively, heading west on 180 provides access to smaller clinics and hospitals in towns like Salem. This route might be preferable for less specialized needs, offering potentially shorter drive times, perhaps 20 to 30 minutes. However, the availability of urological specialists in these areas is more limited.

Beyond these primary routes, local roads like **Kensington Road** and **Homeworth Road** provide access to local businesses and potentially, smaller medical practices. However, these roads are often less maintained and may be subject to seasonal weather conditions, impacting travel times and safety. The "Prostate Cancer Score" must account for these variables, recognizing that reliable transportation is crucial, especially during treatment and recovery.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Kensington are significantly limited. This presents a substantial challenge for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. The absence of a robust public transit system negatively impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score."

There are no readily available bus routes or train services directly serving Kensington. The nearest public transportation hubs are located in larger cities like Youngstown, requiring a significant drive to access them. This necessitates a multi-leg journey, potentially involving a combination of a personal vehicle, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.

The lack of accessible public transit, including routes with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features like ramps and designated seating, is a significant drawback for individuals with mobility limitations. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or require accessible transportation. For someone considering moving to Kensington, the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods is a critical consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

While public transportation is scarce, ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport offer alternative solutions. These options can significantly impact the "Prostate Cancer Score" by providing access to healthcare, albeit at a potentially higher cost.

**Uber** and **Lyft** are available in the area, but their availability and response times may vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Residents should anticipate potential wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **Medicaid Transportation** (if eligible) or private companies like **First Transit**, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, accommodating individuals with mobility limitations. However, they require pre-booking and may have limited availability, impacting the flexibility of scheduling appointments. The "Prostate Cancer Score" acknowledges the importance of these services, especially for those undergoing treatment or experiencing physical limitations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Kensington (44427) is not simply a numerical value; it's a holistic assessment of healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive-Time:** The average drive time to urology clinics, hospitals, and cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence or absence of public transportation options and their accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Proximity to Specialists:** The distance to and availability of specialized urological care, including oncologists and radiation therapy centers.
* **Patient Support Services:** The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources for prostate cancer patients.

The score also acknowledges the importance of considering the financial implications of transportation. The cost of gas, ride-sharing services, and medical transport can significantly impact the overall cost of healthcare.

**Moving to Kensington: A Personalized Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Kensington, the "Prostate Cancer Score" should be a key component of their decision-making process. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transportation options and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for healthcare access.

Potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, assess their ability to drive, and explore the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. They should also research the proximity of urology clinics, hospitals, and cancer centers, as well as the availability of patient support services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a definitive judgment but a guide. It highlights the complexities of healthcare access in Kensington, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall quality of life. Moving to Kensington requires careful planning, particularly for those managing prostate cancer. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is paramount to ensuring timely and accessible healthcare.