15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.60 percent of residents in 15772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 6.98 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rossiter, PA (ZIP Code 15772)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, is fraught with anxiety. When considering a move to a new community, understanding the ease of accessing medical services becomes paramount. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in Rossiter, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15772), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to assess the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport. This score aims to provide prospective residents with vital information, facilitating informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, the efficiency of available transportation options, and the availability of support services. Each element is weighted to reflect its significance in the overall healthcare experience. The higher the score, the better the access to care. We'll delve into the specific transportation realities of Rossiter, PA, to determine its score.

Rossiter, a small community nestled in Indiana County, presents unique transportation challenges. While the area boasts a close-knit atmosphere, its rural nature significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The absence of a robust public transit system and limited ride-share availability necessitates careful planning for medical appointments, especially those requiring frequent visits.

The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are located in Indiana, PA, approximately 15 miles away. Driving time varies depending on traffic and weather conditions, but generally, the trip takes between 20 and 30 minutes via **US Route 119** and **PA Route 286**. This relatively short drive time earns Rossiter a moderate score for accessibility via personal vehicle. However, this score is tempered by the potential for inclement weather, which can significantly increase travel times, particularly during winter months.

Public transportation options are severely limited in Rossiter. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the city of Indiana. There are no direct bus routes from Rossiter to the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), the primary healthcare provider in the area. This lack of public transit severely impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," especially for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive. The ICTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, but their utility is limited by the lack of convenient routes to healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana County area, but their presence is inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Rossiter. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not advisable. This unpredictability further diminishes the "Breast Cancer Score."

Specialized medical transportation services are available, though their cost and availability must be considered. Companies like Medical Transport Services and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden, especially for frequent appointments. This adds a layer of complexity to the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

For those considering moving to Rossiter, the "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of assessing individual transportation needs. If driving is not an option, the challenges of accessing healthcare in this area are substantial. The absence of reliable public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative options, such as medical transportation services or relying on family and friends for assistance.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Rossiter, PA (ZIP Code 15772) is therefore moderate. The relatively short drive to Indiana, PA, and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some degree of accessibility. However, the lack of robust public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services significantly impact the score.

The score also highlights the need for proactive planning. Individuals considering a move to Rossiter should research their healthcare needs, including the frequency of appointments, the availability of specialized care, and the associated transportation costs. They should also explore options for support, such as local community groups or volunteer driver programs.

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, the stress of managing treatment is compounded by the challenges of transportation. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is critical to ensuring timely access to care. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare in a specific location, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Moving to Rossiter requires a thoughtful approach to healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges for those seeking specialized medical care. Understanding these challenges is crucial for anyone considering a move to this area, especially those with existing health concerns. The "Breast Cancer Score" encourages prospective residents to prioritize their healthcare needs and plan accordingly.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Rossiter, PA, reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the proximity of healthcare facilities offers some advantages, the limitations of transportation options necessitate careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare management. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and explore all available resources to ensure they can access the care they require. The score is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical services; it's also about the ability to reach them.