15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.45 percent of residents in 15773 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 27.04 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Benedict, PA (ZIP Code 15773)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It extends beyond the medical appointments, encompassing the critical element of transportation. This analysis focuses on the healthcare access landscape within ZIP Code 15773, the heart of Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania, evaluating the available transportation options for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," a metric reflecting the ease and accessibility of transportation to vital healthcare services.

Saint Benedict, a charming community nestled in Cambria County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, combined with the potential for limited public transportation options, necessitates a thorough exploration of available resources. This analysis considers drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options, all crucial factors in determining the overall accessibility of breast cancer healthcare.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many residents of Saint Benedict, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is therefore paramount. The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer services is likely UPMC Altoona, approximately 50 miles away. This journey, primarily via US-219 South and then I-99 North, could take anywhere from one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Saint Benedict.

Another significant option is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, roughly 30 miles distant. Travel along US-219 North and then PA-56 East will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the importance of reliable personal transportation and the potential for fatigue during treatment.

Smaller clinics and outpatient facilities closer to Saint Benedict, perhaps in nearby Patton or Ebensburg, might offer screening and initial consultations. However, the availability of specialized breast cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, usually necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The condition of roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact drive times and accessibility.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Saint Benedict and the surrounding areas are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services throughout the county. However, the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent trips to medical appointments. Residents would need to investigate the CCTA routes that serve Saint Benedict and connect to the larger medical centers.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The CCTA is required to adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that services are available to those with mobility challenges. However, even with ADA compliance, the frequency of service and the potential for long travel times could pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

The lack of direct routes to major medical centers from Saint Benedict could necessitate multiple transfers, further extending travel times and adding to the stress of healthcare appointments. Careful planning and coordination are essential for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, their availability in rural areas like Saint Benedict is not guaranteed. The presence of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies cater to this need, but their availability and coverage in the Saint Benedict area need to be confirmed.

Medical transportation services often coordinate with insurance providers and offer various levels of care. These services are invaluable for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the cost and availability of these services must be considered when assessing overall healthcare access.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Saint Benedict, PA (15773) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score will be determined by considering the following:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA compliance of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Screening Facilities:** The distance to local clinics offering breast cancer screening.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating greater accessibility to breast cancer healthcare. A low score suggests significant transportation barriers, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment.

**Moving to Saint Benedict: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Benedict, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Those with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease should carefully evaluate the available healthcare access options. Proximity to family, friends, and support networks is also crucial, as they can provide invaluable assistance with transportation and other needs.

The availability of support groups and resources within the community is another critical factor. Local organizations may offer assistance with transportation, financial aid, and emotional support. Researching these resources is an essential step in assessing the suitability of Saint Benedict as a place to live.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey**

The transportation component of healthcare access is often overlooked, but it is fundamental to a patient’s experience. For residents of Saint Benedict, PA (15773), the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer healthcare. While the area offers a close-knit community, the rural nature of the location and limited public transit options present obstacles. Careful planning, exploration of available resources, and consideration of personal transportation needs are crucial for navigating the healthcare journey and ensuring timely access to vital medical services. The journey demands a proactive approach, and understanding the transportation landscape is the first step toward achieving optimal health outcomes.