45862, Mendon, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 45862, Mendon, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.48 percent of residents in 45862 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ridgeview Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45862 (Mendon, Ohio)**

Embarking on a journey to assess prostate cancer healthcare access within Mendon, Ohio (ZIP Code 45862) necessitates a deep dive into the practicalities of *transportation*. This analysis transcends mere geography, encompassing the nuanced realities of getting patients to crucial medical appointments, particularly considering the challenges that a prostate cancer diagnosis and its treatment can present. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities.

Mendon, a small village nestled in Mercer County, Ohio, presents a unique set of *transportation* challenges. The community's rural setting necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary arteries for movement are State Route 707, which runs directly through the village, and State Route 118, a north-south thoroughfare connecting Mendon to surrounding towns. The absence of a robust public *transportation* infrastructure significantly impacts *healthcare access*.

The nearest major medical centers are located in Celina (approximately 10 miles east), Van Wert (around 15 miles southwest), and Lima (roughly 30 miles north). The drive to Celina, home to Mercer Health, is generally the most accessible, taking about 15-20 minutes via State Route 707 and US-127. The journey to Van Wert Health, a regional hospital, requires a similar time frame, utilizing State Route 118 and US-30. However, the trip to Lima, with its more specialized medical facilities like Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center, can extend to 45 minutes or more, involving a combination of State Route 118 and US-30.

The drive times, while seemingly manageable, are subject to various factors. Weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Ohio winters, can significantly increase travel times and pose risks to patients, especially those undergoing treatment or experiencing treatment side effects. Traffic, although generally light in this rural area, can still cause delays, particularly during peak hours or when accidents occur.

Public *transportation* options are severely limited. There are no scheduled bus routes or train services that directly serve Mendon. This absence creates a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to physical limitations or other health concerns. The lack of public *transportation* disproportionately affects elderly residents, those with disabilities, and individuals with lower incomes, all of whom may be at higher risk for prostate cancer and require regular medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Mendon are uncertain. Demand for these services is often low in rural areas, leading to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This adds another layer of complexity to *healthcare access*, especially for those needing prompt or frequent medical attention.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to assist patients with their medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Companies like CareRide and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT) services. These services typically require prior scheduling and may have limitations on the distance they cover. The availability and coverage of these services within Mendon and the surrounding areas need to be carefully investigated.

For a patient *moving to Mendon* and facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, the *healthcare access* landscape presents a mixed picture. The proximity to medical facilities in Celina and Van Wert offers a degree of convenience. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public *transportation* options, and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services create challenges.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Mendon, Ohio, must consider these factors. The score should reflect the ease of access to urologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It should also account for the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and access to financial assistance programs.

Further research is needed to determine the specific availability of medical specialists and services in the surrounding areas. A detailed analysis of the cost of *transportation*, including fuel costs, ride-sharing fares, and medical *transportation* fees, is also essential. This information will provide a more complete picture of the financial burden associated with accessing *healthcare*.

The quality of the roads and the availability of accessible parking at medical facilities are also critical considerations. The presence of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, is essential for patients with mobility issues.

The score should also evaluate the potential impact of telemedicine and telehealth services. The ability to consult with medical professionals remotely can significantly improve *healthcare access*, especially for patients in rural areas. The availability of broadband internet access in Mendon is a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of telehealth services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Mendon, Ohio, will ultimately provide a valuable tool for patients, their families, and healthcare providers. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the *transportation* and *healthcare access* infrastructure, allowing for informed decisions and the development of strategies to improve the quality of care for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The score should also serve as a catalyst for community initiatives aimed at enhancing *healthcare access* for all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial circumstances.