45860, Maria Stein, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 45860, Maria Stein, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.36 percent of residents in 45860 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Lake Health System with a distance of 12.69 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Maria Stein (ZIP Code 45860)

The prospect of a prostate cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding not only expert medical care but also readily accessible healthcare. For residents of Maria Stein, Ohio (ZIP Code 45860), understanding their **healthcare access** landscape is crucial. This analysis, a "Prostate Cancer Score," assesses the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on timely care. Considering the rural nature of the area, this analysis considers the challenges and opportunities for those **moving to Maria Stein**.

The core of effective prostate cancer treatment lies in early detection and consistent follow-up. This requires reliable **transportation** to and from appointments for screenings, consultations, treatments (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy), and ongoing monitoring. The "Prostate Cancer Score" evaluates these factors, providing a comprehensive picture of the healthcare journey within and around Maria Stein.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

Maria Stein, nestled in Mercer County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary arteries are State Route 119 and State Route 29. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic, especially during peak hours and agricultural seasons. The drive to the nearest hospitals offering comprehensive urology services is a key consideration.

Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, approximately 30 miles north via State Route 29 and Interstate 75, is a significant healthcare hub. Expect a drive time of around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This journey necessitates navigating a portion of I-75, a major north-south corridor.

Another option is Wilson Health in Sidney, roughly 20 miles south via State Route 29. The drive time here is shorter, typically 30-40 minutes. This route offers a more direct path, making it a potentially faster option.

For those seeking specialized cancer care, including radiation therapy, The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, about 100 miles east, is a possibility. This trip involves a longer drive, predominantly on I-70, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours.

The drive times, while manageable, highlight the importance of reliable personal vehicles. Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public **transportation** options in Maria Stein are limited. Mercer County does not have a traditional public bus system with fixed routes and schedules. This lack of public **transportation** presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive due to medical conditions.

While specific public transit routes are absent, the Western Ohio Regional Transit Authority (WORTA) may offer demand-response services. These services require advance booking and are often geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities. The availability and accessibility of these services should be confirmed by contacting WORTA directly.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial for any public transit option. WORTA's services are designed to meet ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited scope of these services underscores the reliance on alternative **transportation** methods.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Maria Stein, but their availability and reliability are not guaranteed. Their presence is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for critical medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **CareRide:** Provides non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Medical Transport:** Offers stretcher and wheelchair-accessible **transportation**, catering to a wide range of medical needs.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** Primarily known for emergency services, AMR may offer non-emergency medical **transportation** in certain circumstances.

These services require advance booking and can involve significant costs. However, they provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other **transportation** options. It is important to research and compare pricing and services from different providers to find the most suitable option.

**The Impact on the "Prostate Cancer Score"**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Maria Stein, Ohio, reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing prostate cancer care. The score would be impacted by the following:

* **Accessibility of Urology Services:** The proximity to hospitals with urology departments, such as St. Rita's and Wilson Health, positively influences the score.
* **Reliability of Personal Vehicles:** The dependence on personal vehicles highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential impact of vehicle breakdowns.
* **Availability of Alternative Transportation:** The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services negatively impact the score.
* **Cost and Availability of Medical Transport:** The availability of medical **transportation** services and their associated costs influence the score.
* **Support Systems:** The presence of family, friends, or community organizations that can provide **transportation** assistance can improve the score.

**Moving to Maria Stein: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering **moving to Maria Stein**, the "Prostate Cancer Score" should be a key factor. While the area offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, the limitations in **transportation** options must be carefully considered.

Individuals with a history of prostate cancer or those at high risk should assess their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. This may involve:

* **Maintaining a reliable vehicle:** Regular maintenance and access to a backup plan are essential.
* **Exploring medical **transportation** options:** Researching and pre-arranging medical **transportation** services can provide peace of mind.
* **Building a support network:** Establishing relationships with family, friends, or neighbors who can provide **transportation** assistance is invaluable.
* **Understanding insurance coverage:** Confirming that health insurance covers medical **transportation** costs is crucial.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Maria Stein, Ohio, reflects a healthcare landscape where personal **transportation** is paramount. While the proximity to hospitals offering urology services is a positive factor, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Individuals considering **moving to Maria Stein** or already residing there must proactively address their **transportation** needs to ensure timely access to essential prostate cancer care. By understanding the available options and building a robust support system, residents of Maria Stein can navigate the healthcare landscape and prioritize their health.