15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.70 percent of residents in 15714 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15714 (Northern Cambria)

Considering a move to the charming community of Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15714? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of healthcare accessibility, specifically focusing on transportation options for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. This information can help prospective residents evaluate the ease of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single numerical value but a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. It acknowledges the critical importance of timely access to healthcare for positive outcomes. The score emphasizes the significance of accessible transportation in a rural setting.

**Drive Time Deliberations:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 15714 is the automobile. Drive times to healthcare facilities significantly influence the Breast Cancer Score. The primary healthcare hub for residents is often the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located in Indiana, PA. The most direct route typically involves navigating **U.S. Route 219 South**. The drive, under optimal conditions, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, covering roughly 25 miles. This drive time, while manageable, can be impacted by weather, particularly during winter months, potentially extending travel duration.

Another option for accessing healthcare is the Conemaugh Health System, with hospitals in Johnstown, PA. This trip involves traveling along **U.S. Route 219 South** and then transitioning onto **U.S. Route 22 East**. The distance is approximately 40 miles, and the drive time, without delays, can range from 50 minutes to an hour. The availability of multiple healthcare options, even with slightly longer drive times, enhances the overall Breast Cancer Score.

Smaller clinics and physician offices may be found in nearby towns like Ebensburg. These facilities may offer basic screening services or follow-up appointments, reducing the need for longer trips. However, for specialized breast cancer care, including mammograms, biopsies, and oncology treatments, the larger hospitals in Indiana or Johnstown are generally preferred.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Public transportation options in 15714 are limited, which significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are designed primarily for local travel within Cambria County. There are no direct, regularly scheduled routes connecting Northern Cambria (15714) to Indiana, PA.

The CCTA may offer routes that require multiple transfers, potentially involving a bus to Ebensburg and then another to Johnstown. This journey, while theoretically possible, could consume several hours and would be far less convenient than driving. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of CCTA buses is a crucial consideration. All CCTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, the infrequent service and lengthy travel times pose significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Realities:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Indiana and Johnstown areas, but their presence in 15714 is less consistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular appointments or treatments is not advisable.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized option. These services, often provided by companies like First Transit or local ambulance companies, are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. They may offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve significant costs, impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 15714 is influenced by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare facilities is a significant factor. While drive times to major hospitals are reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create vulnerabilities.

The Breast Cancer Score is diminished by the potential for travel delays due to weather or traffic. The absence of direct public transit routes necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly medical transport services. The limited availability of ride-sharing services further compounds the challenges.

However, the presence of multiple healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance mitigates some of the challenges. The availability of specialized breast cancer care at IRMC and the Conemaugh Health System enhances the overall score. The potential for accessing local clinics for basic services also contributes positively.

**Moving to Northern Cambria: A Transportation Perspective:**

For individuals considering a move to Northern Cambria, 15714, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact of weather and other delays.

Those without access to a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. In such cases, exploring the availability of medical transport services and budgeting for these expenses is crucial.

The proximity to larger healthcare facilities in Indiana and Johnstown provides access to comprehensive breast cancer care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of maintaining a reliable vehicle and considering the potential for travel-related stress.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static value but a dynamic assessment. It emphasizes the significance of informed decision-making. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities before making a move. The availability of healthcare access is a vital consideration when choosing a new home.