15656, Leechburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15656, Leechburg, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.78 percent of residents in 15656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 24.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leechburg (ZIP Code 15656)

The decision to move to a new community, especially when considering healthcare needs, requires careful assessment. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15656 (Leechburg, Pennsylvania), focusing on transportation accessibility to essential breast cancer services. We will explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for potential residents.

Leechburg, nestled along the Allegheny River, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's location, while offering scenic beauty, influences the ease with which residents can access specialized medical care. This score aims to provide a realistic understanding of the journey to breast cancer healthcare, empowering informed decisions for those considering relocating.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Leechburg is the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to hospitals and cancer centers is crucial. The most direct route to many facilities involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 66**, a vital artery connecting Leechburg to larger towns and cities.

Driving to UPMC St. Margaret Hospital in Pittsburgh, a comprehensive cancer care provider, typically requires a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive primarily utilizes **Route 66** south, merging onto **U.S. Route 28** and then connecting to various city roads. The potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, should be factored into this estimate.

Another significant healthcare destination is Allegheny Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights, offering cancer services closer to Leechburg. The drive to Allegheny Valley Hospital is shorter, generally taking around 15-20 minutes, utilizing **Route 66** north. This proximity offers a more convenient option for routine appointments and treatments.

For those seeking specialized care or clinical trials, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh is a prominent option. The drive, again primarily via **Route 66** and **U.S. Route 28**, can extend to 60-75 minutes or longer, depending on traffic and the specific location within the hospital complex.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Leechburg are limited but present a viable alternative for some residents. The primary provider is the **Armstrong County Transit (ACT)**. ACT offers bus routes connecting Leechburg to surrounding communities and, potentially, to transfer points for access to the broader Pittsburgh area.

Unfortunately, specific route numbers and schedules for ACT service within Leechburg and its direct connections to cancer centers are not readily available online. Detailed information on route numbers, frequency, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features must be obtained directly from ACT. This includes information on wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accommodations. This requires contacting ACT for current route maps and schedules, as well as details regarding stops near cancer care facilities.

The journey to UPMC hospitals in Pittsburgh via public transit would likely involve a multi-leg trip, potentially including a bus ride to a transfer point and then a connection to the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) system. This option would significantly increase travel time, potentially exceeding two hours each way, and would require careful planning and coordination.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Leechburg area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing to Pittsburgh hospitals can be substantial, potentially exceeding $75-$100 each way, depending on demand and surge pricing. Residents should consider this cost when planning appointments and treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or other special needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Pittsburgh area, offering services to Leechburg residents. These services may be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's policy and medical necessity. Researching and contacting these companies is essential for those who require this type of assistance.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Leechburg (15656) is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed above. It reflects the challenges and opportunities related to accessing breast cancer healthcare.

The score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. While Leechburg offers proximity to Allegheny Valley Hospital, the longer drive times to Pittsburgh hospitals and cancer centers present a significant consideration.

For individuals with limited mobility, those without access to a personal vehicle, or those reliant on public transit, accessing specialized breast cancer care in Pittsburgh can be a considerable challenge. The need for detailed planning, coordination, and potentially significant transportation costs is paramount.

**Moving to Leechburg: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Leechburg, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Prior to relocating, prospective residents should:

* **Research and confirm the availability of breast cancer specialists and services within a reasonable driving distance.**
* **Investigate the specific routes and schedules of Armstrong County Transit (ACT) and its accessibility features.**
* **Obtain estimates for ride-sharing costs to various healthcare facilities.**
* **Explore the availability and cost of medical transportation services.**
* **Assess their ability to manage the drive times and potential traffic delays, especially during treatment appointments.**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Leechburg highlights the importance of proactive planning and understanding the transportation landscape. While Leechburg offers a welcoming community and scenic beauty, prospective residents must carefully consider the implications of healthcare access when making their relocation decision. The journey to healthcare, especially for breast cancer, requires careful consideration of transportation logistics.