45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.73 percent of residents in 45816 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45816**

The journey to quality healthcare, especially for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is not merely about medical expertise; it's deeply intertwined with the ease and efficiency of transportation. For residents of Benton Ridge, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 45816, the "Prostate Cancer Score" reflects the accessibility of vital medical services, considering the available transportation options and the time required to reach them. This analysis focuses on the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities for those navigating the healthcare landscape.

Benton Ridge, a small community, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries connecting it to larger towns and cities with specialized medical facilities are Ohio State Route 65 and Ohio State Route 235. These roadways are essential for accessing urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers, all crucial components of prostate cancer treatment. The drive times to these facilities are a critical factor in the Prostate Cancer Score.

For example, a trip to Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay, a regional healthcare hub, typically involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via Ohio State Route 65. This relatively short commute is a positive factor in the score. However, the availability of specialized prostate cancer care within Findlay itself must also be considered. Does the hospital offer comprehensive services, or will patients need to travel further for specific treatments like advanced imaging or surgical procedures?

Further afield, residents might need to travel to larger cities like Lima or even Toledo for specialized care. Reaching Lima, approximately a 40-50 minute drive via Ohio State Route 65 and US Route 30, presents a longer commute. Toledo, a larger metropolitan area with a broader range of medical specialists, could necessitate a drive of over an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. These longer travel times negatively impact the Prostate Cancer Score, increasing the burden on patients already dealing with a serious illness.

Public transit options in and around Benton Ridge are extremely limited. There are no local bus routes directly serving the village. This lack of public transportation significantly diminishes the Prostate Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other limitations. The absence of a reliable public transit system forces these individuals to rely on family, friends, or other less dependable alternatives.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often sporadic, and availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some patients, further impacting the Prostate Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including some that provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, adding to the overall cost of healthcare and potentially affecting the patient's ability to attend appointments regularly.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is a crucial consideration. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability is not guaranteed. Medical transportation services are more likely to provide ADA-compliant transportation, but their cost and availability remain concerns.

The Prostate Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, which can be essential for patients and their families. The location of these services and the ease of access to them via transportation are important factors in the overall score.

The challenges of transportation are particularly acute for individuals undergoing radiation therapy, which often requires daily visits to a treatment center for several weeks. The cumulative travel time and associated costs can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment.

The quality of roads and traffic conditions are additional factors. While Ohio State Route 65 and Ohio State Route 235 are generally well-maintained, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can add to commute times. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also affect the Prostate Cancer Score, making travel more difficult and potentially dangerous.

For someone considering moving to Benton Ridge, the Prostate Cancer Score should be a key consideration. It provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing prostate cancer care. The score highlights the importance of having a reliable means of transportation, whether it's a personal vehicle, access to ride-sharing, or the availability of medical transportation services.

In conclusion, the Prostate Cancer Score for residents of ZIP code 45816 is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the distance to specialized medical facilities all play a role. While the proximity to Findlay offers relatively short commutes, the need to travel further for specialized care and the lack of accessible public transit pose significant challenges. The Prostate Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access and making informed decisions about where to live and receive medical care.