15765, Penn Run, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15765, Penn Run, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.59 percent of residents in 15765 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 25.13 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15765

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation network. For residents of Penn Run, Pennsylvania, in ZIP code 15765, understanding the complexities of transportation options is crucial for navigating their healthcare journey. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the ease of access to breast cancer-related healthcare facilities, considering various modes of transportation.

The core of our analysis revolves around the drive-time to the nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and supportive services. The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around Penn Run are Route 119 and Route 286. These highways provide the most direct routes to larger towns and cities where specialized healthcare services are concentrated.

Driving to the nearest hospitals with comprehensive breast cancer care, such as Indiana Hospital in Indiana, PA, or facilities in Johnstown, PA, typically involves a drive along Route 119 or Route 286. The drive to Indiana Hospital, the closest comprehensive facility, is roughly 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, the journey to Johnstown, offering a broader range of specialists and treatment options, could take upwards of an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours.

The time factor, especially when facing a cancer diagnosis, is paramount. Delays due to transportation can exacerbate stress and anxiety, impacting treatment adherence and overall well-being. The Breast Cancer Score will therefore factor in not just distance, but also the anticipated travel time, considering potential traffic bottlenecks and road conditions.

Public transportation options within 15765 are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services within the county. However, the routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population, and may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is critical for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the accessibility features of specific routes is essential.

The ICTA’s routes, while potentially offering a cost-effective option, may involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, especially when traveling to facilities outside of Indiana, PA. For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the extended travel times and the need for transfers can be physically and emotionally draining. The Breast Cancer Score will assess the practicality of using public transit, considering the frequency and duration of medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly in rural areas like Penn Run. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The Breast Cancer Score will consider the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like MedTrans or others specializing in non-emergency medical transportation may be available in the area. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate mobility limitations. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services should be confirmed in advance.

The availability of these specialized transportation services is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. The score will assess the ease of accessing these services, considering factors such as cost, availability, and the level of assistance provided.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the availability of support services within the community. This includes support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators who can help patients navigate the healthcare system and coordinate transportation. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience.

For individuals considering moving to Penn Run, 15765, and seeking healthcare access, the Breast Cancer Score provides a valuable tool for assessing the transportation landscape. It offers a comprehensive overview of the available options, their associated costs, and their practicality for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The score will not only evaluate the physical accessibility of healthcare facilities but also the ease with which patients can access the support and resources they need to navigate their healthcare journey. This includes the availability of patient navigators who can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating transportation, and understanding insurance coverage.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that will be updated periodically to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, the availability of services, and the evolving needs of the community. The goal is to provide residents of Penn Run with the most up-to-date information possible, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The final Breast Cancer Score for Penn Run, 15765, will be a composite measure, reflecting the ease of access to breast cancer-related healthcare facilities. The score will incorporate factors such as drive-time, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, medical transportation services, and the presence of support services.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to care. This will allow residents to easily understand the overall accessibility of healthcare services in their community. The Breast Cancer Score is a vital resource for anyone seeking breast cancer care in Penn Run, providing a clear picture of the transportation landscape and empowering patients to navigate their healthcare journey with confidence.