15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.00 percent of residents in 15721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.07 miles from the area.

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, becomes a critical aspect of life in Burnside, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 15721. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, analyzes the accessibility of vital medical services, focusing on transportation options available to residents. The ability to navigate the healthcare landscape efficiently, especially during a challenging time, is paramount, influencing treatment outcomes and overall well-being.

The geography of Burnside, nestled in a rural corner of Indiana County, significantly shapes the transportation terrain. Driving is the primary mode of travel for most residents, and the condition of the roads, the distance to medical facilities, and the availability of alternative transportation options become essential factors. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers these elements, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access.

The most direct route to specialized breast cancer care often involves traveling to Indiana, PA, the county seat. From Burnside, this typically entails a drive on Route 286, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The trip, approximately 15 miles, usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time, while manageable, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments, and potentially experiencing side effects.

Alternatively, residents might consider heading east on Route 403, which connects to Route 119, leading to Indiana. This route, while slightly longer, offers a different perspective, avoiding some of the congestion on Route 286. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter, can impact travel times and safety.

For more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Pittsburgh, approximately 75 miles away. This journey necessitates navigating the often-congested Route 22, a major east-west artery. The drive can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic, making it a significant undertaking, especially for those requiring frequent appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" factors in the added stress of long-distance travel.

Public transportation options in Burnside and the surrounding areas are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus service, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the medical facilities in Indiana. Furthermore, the ICTA operates with limited ADA-accessible vehicles, which might pose a challenge for patients with mobility issues. The lack of robust public transit is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score," highlighting the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability can be particularly limited in rural areas like Burnside, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the potential benefit of ride-sharing, but also recognizes its limitations as a primary transportation solution.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. Companies like MedRide or First Transit provide specialized vehicles and trained drivers, offering a more comfortable and supportive experience. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to drive themselves or who require assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the availability and affordability of medical transportation services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within Burnside. Local organizations and support groups can offer emotional support, practical assistance, and resources to help patients navigate their treatment journey. The proximity of these services, and their ability to connect patients with transportation assistance, is a positive factor.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Burnside, ZIP Code 15721, reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. While the proximity to Indiana, PA, offers some advantages, the limitations of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long-distance travel to specialized facilities create significant hurdles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some relief, but the cost and reliability of these options must be considered.

For those considering moving to Burnside, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape. It emphasizes the importance of assessing individual transportation needs and planning for potential challenges. The score also underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in rural communities, including expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of medical transportation services, and fostering a supportive network of local resources.

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. It serves as a reminder that the journey to healthcare is not just about medical treatment; it's also about the ability to get there safely, efficiently, and with the support needed to navigate a challenging time. Understanding the transportation realities in Burnside is crucial for residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders working to improve the lives of those affected by breast cancer.