15535, Clearville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15535, Clearville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.88 percent of residents in 15535 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 13.63 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clearville, PA (ZIP Code 15535)**

The journey to breast cancer care in Clearville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15535) is more than a physical trip; it's a complex negotiation of time, resources, and available transportation. This report delves into the landscape of healthcare access for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, considering the critical elements of transportation. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Clearville, or for current residents seeking optimal care.

Clearville, a rural community nestled in Bedford County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, making transportation a significant consideration. This analysis will explore the various modes of transportation available, assessing their efficiency, accessibility, and potential impact on a patient's well-being. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing timely and quality care.

**The Road Ahead: Driving Times and Routes**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by the location of the patient's home within the ZIP code and the destination. The primary routes involve navigating the region's highways and roads.

The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves utilizing US-220 North, a major arterial highway. Depending on the specific location within 15535, the drive to UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital, for example, may take approximately 20-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but can experience delays during inclement weather or peak travel times.

Further afield, the drive to larger facilities like UPMC Altoona or Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center requires a longer journey. These trips often involve a combination of US-220, I-99, and potentially the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). The drive to Altoona could take upwards of an hour, while Hershey could be a two-hour endeavor, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, particularly for patients undergoing treatment requiring frequent visits.

Navigating the local roads, such as PA-96 and PA-36, offers alternative routes, but these roads are often narrower and may be subject to more frequent delays due to local traffic or seasonal road conditions. These routes can be useful for shorter trips to local medical offices, but are less suitable for accessing larger hospitals.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Clearville are limited. The region is not served by a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of widespread public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive.

While there may be limited local shuttle services or demand-response transportation options, these are not readily available and may require advance booking. These services often have limited hours of operation and may not be suitable for patients needing frequent appointments or emergency care. The lack of ADA-compliant features on available transportation options is another significant concern.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Clearville, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, are designed to provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and its Implications**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Clearville, PA (ZIP code 15535) would reflect the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care. The score would take into account the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The availability and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The estimated cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport costs.

A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing timely and quality breast cancer care due to transportation limitations. A higher score would reflect better access, with more readily available and affordable transportation options.

**Moving to Clearville: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Clearville, understanding the "Breast Cancer Score" is crucial. Those with a history of breast cancer, or those at high risk, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and potential impact on their healthcare access.

It is essential to research the availability of medical facilities, transportation services, and the associated costs. Consider the potential for increased travel time and the impact on overall well-being.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The journey to breast cancer care in Clearville, PA, is shaped by the availability of transportation. While the community offers a peaceful environment, accessing healthcare requires careful planning and resourcefulness. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access, particularly in rural communities like Clearville. Understanding these nuances is critical for anyone navigating the healthcare landscape, whether a long-time resident or someone considering moving to Clearville.