15483, Stockdale, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15483, Stockdale, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.86 percent of residents in 15483 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stockdale (ZIP Code 15483)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is not merely a medical one. It is a logistical, emotional, and often financially taxing undertaking. Understanding the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment options is crucial for residents of Stockdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15483), a community nestled along the Monongahela River. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing this challenging disease.

The score considers factors like drive times to cancer centers, public transportation availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. This information helps prospective residents, current patients, and their families assess the feasibility of receiving comprehensive breast cancer care within a reasonable distance. It is a crucial aspect of moving to Stockdale.

Stockdale's location, while offering a sense of community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Pennsylvania Route 88, which snakes along the river, and the more direct Pennsylvania Route 43, a limited-access highway. These routes dictate the majority of commutes for medical appointments.

For residents relying on personal vehicles, drive times to cancer centers are the first consideration. The closest major cancer centers are likely located in the Greater Pittsburgh area, a drive that can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. A trip to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, for example, would involve navigating Pennsylvania Route 43 and then various city roads.

Another option is the Washington Health System, which could be accessed via Pennsylvania Route 88 or Route 43. Traffic on these routes can vary considerably, particularly during rush hour. The presence of bridges and river crossings can also introduce delays.

Public transportation options within Stockdale are limited. The primary provider in the region is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA). WCTA operates bus routes, but their frequency and coverage in Stockdale are not extensive. The routes are designed to connect to larger towns and cities, but may not always provide direct access to cancer centers.

The WCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfer times can significantly increase travel duration. This is a crucial factor in assessing the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The reliability of ride-sharing is a factor, particularly for appointments that require punctuality, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with their travel. These services provide door-to-door transport, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Companies like First Transit or MedRide may operate in the region, but their availability and cost vary. These services are vital for patients who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

The Breast Cancer Score for Stockdale will reflect the interplay of these transportation options. A high score indicates excellent access to care, while a low score signifies significant challenges. The score will be a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure, the availability of medical services, and the needs of the community.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is immense. The added burden of transportation difficulties can exacerbate stress and anxiety. The Breast Cancer Score is designed to provide clarity and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The score's methodology will consider the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to major cancer centers during peak and off-peak hours, utilizing GPS data and real-time traffic information.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of WCTA bus routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Estimated wait times, cost, and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability, cost, and types of services offered by medical transport providers.
* **Cost of Transportation:** Fuel costs, public transit fares, and estimated ride-share expenses.

The Breast Cancer Score is not merely a number; it is a tool for understanding the realities of healthcare access in Stockdale. It aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape, allowing individuals to proactively plan their care and advocate for improved services.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access. The score will also include a detailed breakdown of each factor, providing specific information about drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and medical transport options.

The score will be regularly updated to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community needs. This dynamic approach ensures that the Breast Cancer Score remains a relevant and valuable resource for residents of Stockdale.

Ultimately, the goal of the Breast Cancer Score is to empower individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities, patients can make informed decisions about their care, reducing stress and improving their overall well-being. This information is particularly important for those considering moving to Stockdale, as it can significantly influence their healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score is a testament to the community's commitment to supporting its residents through every stage of their healthcare journey.