15533, Breezewood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15533, Breezewood, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.44 percent of residents in 15533 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 10.15 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Breezewood, PA (ZIP Code 15533)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is a complex one. It’s not just about the medical expertise available; it's also about the ease with which a patient can access it. This assessment, focusing on ZIP code 15533 (Breezewood, Pennsylvania), provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' that considers the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. This score, while not a formal medical evaluation, aims to offer a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking breast cancer care within this specific geographic area. If you are **moving to Breezewood**, this is a critical factor to consider.

Breezewood, nestled in the heart of Bedford County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. Its rural character, while offering scenic beauty, translates to limited public transit options and a reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for **transportation** are the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway), and I-70. These highways offer relatively swift passage to larger medical centers, but the distances involved and potential for traffic congestion must be factored into any assessment of healthcare access.

The cornerstone of this analysis is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities. The closest major hospital with a dedicated breast cancer center is UPMC Bedford, located approximately 20 miles from Breezewood. Driving along the US Route 30 corridor is the most direct route, typically taking around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. However, this route can be subject to delays, especially during peak travel times or due to construction. Alternatively, utilizing the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) to I-99 offers a slightly longer, but potentially faster, route, especially if traffic is heavy on US Route 30. This route could take around 45 minutes.

Further afield, the renowned Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, offering specialized breast cancer treatment, is about 90 miles away. This journey, primarily via I-76 and I-81, could take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, assuming ideal traffic conditions. This underscores the importance of considering the total time commitment, including travel, waiting, and appointment duration, when evaluating **healthcare access**.

Public transit options in Breezewood are severely limited. The local transit authority, Bedford County Transit, primarily serves the immediate Bedford area. Their routes are infrequent, and service to Breezewood is minimal, with no direct routes to major medical facilities. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is also a concern, as the availability of ADA-compliant buses and routes is limited. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for a segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Breezewood area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or treatments. Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available, but they are typically reserved for patients requiring urgent care or those with specific medical needs. The cost of these services is also a major consideration.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Breezewood, therefore, reflects the challenges posed by the transportation landscape. The score is impacted by the distance to specialized care, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport. The score would likely be lower than in areas with more readily available and affordable transportation options.

The absence of direct public transit routes to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities is a significant drawback. While ride-sharing offers an alternative, its cost and availability are potential barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles, while providing flexibility, places an additional burden on patients, particularly those undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

The impact on **healthcare access** extends beyond the initial diagnosis and treatment. Follow-up appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, and physical therapy all require regular transportation. This can create a logistical and financial strain on patients and their families. This is a critical factor for anyone **moving to Breezewood**.

To improve the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Breezewood, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding public transit services, including dedicated routes to medical facilities, would significantly enhance access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also provide a valuable solution. Furthermore, community initiatives to provide volunteer driver programs or carpooling networks could alleviate some of the transportation burdens.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experience of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the importance of considering the practical aspects of accessing care, not just the medical expertise available. For those considering **moving to Breezewood**, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. The availability of reliable **transportation** is crucial for a positive healthcare experience.