15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.14 percent of residents in 15474 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 Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 13.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Point Marion (ZIP Code 15474)

Point Marion, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Monongahela River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis focuses on breast cancer care, evaluating the ease with which individuals can access screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. We'll examine the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15474, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective measure reflecting the relative ease of accessing vital healthcare services, especially for those considering moving to Point Marion.

The cornerstone of any healthcare access assessment is transportation. For residents of Point Marion, the primary mode of personal transportation is the automobile. The town is relatively small, and many essential services, including healthcare facilities, are located outside its immediate boundaries. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating a combination of highways and local roads.

The primary artery connecting Point Marion to the broader region is **US Route 119**. This highway provides access to Morgantown, West Virginia, a city with significant healthcare resources, including the WVU Medicine system. Driving time to Morgantown can vary, typically ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. The route is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise due to construction or accidents.

Another important route is **Pennsylvania Route 166**, which connects Point Marion to Uniontown, Pennsylvania. Uniontown offers a range of healthcare services, including the Uniontown Hospital. The drive time to Uniontown is usually shorter than to Morgantown, approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This route is crucial for accessing local medical appointments and services.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The **Fayette County Transit Authority (FCTA)** provides bus service in the area. However, service frequency and route coverage in Point Marion are restricted. While FCTA may offer routes that pass through or near Point Marion, these routes may not directly serve healthcare facilities or may require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and complexity.

The FCTA buses, while offering a vital service, may not always be the most convenient option for medical appointments. The schedules might not align with appointment times, and the routes may not be direct. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on all buses should be verified to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Point Marion may be sporadic. The availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments could be risky, as delays in securing a ride could lead to missed appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically involve pre-booked transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

The availability and cost of medical transport services vary. It's essential to research and compare different providers to find the most suitable option. These services are particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

Considering the transportation landscape, we can begin to formulate a Breast Cancer Score for Point Marion. The score will consider several factors: the distance and travel time to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, are a significant factor. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potentially unreliable ride-sharing services create a degree of transportation vulnerability.

The Breast Cancer Score will also factor in the quality of healthcare services available in the region. The proximity to Morgantown and Uniontown, with their comprehensive medical facilities, is a positive aspect. However, the availability of specialized breast cancer care, such as mammography, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy, within a reasonable distance is crucial.

The score will also consider the affordability of healthcare services and transportation options. The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can be a significant burden, especially for low-income individuals.

The final Breast Cancer Score for Point Marion, considering all factors, would likely fall in the moderate range. While the town is within reasonable driving distance of quality healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some relief, but their reliability and affordability need careful consideration.

For individuals considering moving to Point Marion, this assessment highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. It's essential to assess the availability of transportation options, research the quality of healthcare services in the surrounding area, and consider the associated costs. Planning ahead and exploring all available resources is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care.