15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.54 percent of residents in 15313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 9.88 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Care in 15313 (Beallsville, PA)

The journey to diagnose and treat breast cancer can be arduous, and the challenges are compounded by geographical barriers. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, examines the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare within the 15313 ZIP code, encompassing Beallsville, Pennsylvania. It delves into the multifaceted landscape of transportation options, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, all crucial elements in determining a patient's access to timely and potentially life-saving care. This assessment is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation hurdles residents of Beallsville might face when seeking breast cancer care, especially for those considering moving to this area.

The primary consideration for residents in Beallsville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The surrounding terrain and the relative lack of robust public transportation options mean that driving is often the most practical, and sometimes the only, way to reach medical facilities. For those without a car, or who are unable to drive due to their condition or other factors, the situation becomes considerably more complex.

The most direct route to major healthcare providers typically involves navigating the local road network. From Beallsville, the primary artery is **State Route 26** (SR 26), which connects to **Interstate 70** (I-70). I-70 serves as the primary corridor for accessing larger medical centers located in Washington, PA, and further afield in Pittsburgh. Drive times to these centers can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific destination.

Reaching Washington Hospital, a significant regional provider, typically requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves traveling west on SR 26 to I-70 West. The hospital is conveniently located near the interstate, making it relatively accessible. However, during peak commuting hours, especially in the morning and evening, traffic congestion on I-70 can add considerable time to the commute, potentially impacting appointment schedules and adding to patient stress.

For access to the more specialized care offered in Pittsburgh, the journey becomes considerably longer. Driving to UPMC facilities, such as UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, the leading provider for breast cancer treatment in the region, necessitates a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This involves traveling west on SR 26, merging onto I-70 West, and then navigating the complex network of highways and roads within the city. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent visits for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up appointments.

Public transportation options within 15313 are limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is the **Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA)**. The WCTA operates a network of bus routes, but their coverage in Beallsville and the surrounding rural areas is sparse. Service frequency is often limited, and routes may not directly connect to major medical facilities. This severely restricts healthcare access.

The WCTA's services may not be fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all aspects. While the WCTA strives to provide accessible transportation, individuals with mobility limitations or other disabilities may encounter challenges. This is especially relevant for breast cancer patients who may experience fatigue, weakness, or other physical impairments as a result of their treatment. The lack of readily available ADA-compliant transportation further exacerbates the difficulties in accessing care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability in rural areas like Beallsville can be inconsistent. While these services may be accessible, they are often more expensive than public transportation, and their reliability can be unpredictable. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can quickly become a financial burden for patients, particularly those who are unable to work due to their illness or treatment.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage. However, the availability of NEMT providers in the 15313 ZIP code may be limited, and the cost of these services can vary. Patients may need to navigate insurance coverage and pre-authorization requirements to access NEMT services, adding another layer of complexity to their healthcare journey.

The Breast Cancer Score for 15313 reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing breast cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential challenges with medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. This assessment highlights the critical need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to ensure that all residents of Beallsville, especially those battling breast cancer, can access the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Beallsville, as they should be fully aware of the transportation limitations before making their decision. The goal is to ensure that the journey to healthcare is not an additional burden for those already facing the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer.