15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15824, Brockway, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.04 percent of residents in 15824 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 16.61 miles from the area.

Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brockway (ZIP Code 15824)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It's not simply about the availability of medical professionals; it's about how easily and affordably you can reach them. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding Brockway, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15824), focusing on access to breast cancer-related healthcare services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for residents and those considering moving to Brockway.

Brockway, a charming borough nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the area offers a sense of community and natural beauty, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics when assessing healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score aims to illuminate these factors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the practicalities of seeking breast cancer care in this region.

Driving to Healthcare: A Road Trip Analysis

The primary mode of transportation for most Brockway residents is the automobile. The ability to drive to appointments, screenings, and treatments is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score begins by analyzing drive times to key healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services.

The closest significant healthcare hub is DuBois, approximately 15 miles from Brockway. The most direct route is generally via Pennsylvania Route 219 North. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel further. Penn Highlands Healthcare, with its various facilities in DuBois, offers comprehensive cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The drive to these facilities via Route 219 North is the most common path.

Another option is to travel to Punxsutawney, roughly 20 miles away, accessible via Pennsylvania Route 119 South. This journey, usually taking around 30 to 40 minutes, provides access to additional healthcare providers.

The Breast Cancer Score accounts for these drive times, acknowledging that longer travel times can increase stress and potentially delay care. It also considers the condition of the roads, especially during the winter months, when snow and ice can make travel treacherous. This information is crucial for individuals considering moving to Brockway, ensuring they understand the realities of accessing healthcare.

Public Transit: Limited Options, Careful Planning

Public transportation options in Brockway are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The Jefferson County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

The JCTA operates several routes, but their frequency and coverage may not align with the needs of individuals seeking breast cancer care. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities. However, the limited schedule and potential for long wait times require careful planning and coordination.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability and accessibility of public transit, recognizing that its limitations may necessitate alternative transportation solutions. It acknowledges that reliance on public transit can add significant time and complexity to accessing healthcare.

Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the DuBois area, but their presence in Brockway is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. This means that relying on ride-sharing for appointments requires advanced planning and the potential for increased costs.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including MedStar and LifeFleet.

The Breast Cancer Score assesses the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, recognizing their role in bridging the transportation gap. It acknowledges that these services can be valuable, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

Medical Facilities and Services: The Heart of the Matter

The Breast Cancer Score must also consider the availability of breast cancer-related services in the region. This includes access to:

* **Screening Mammograms:** Essential for early detection.
* **Diagnostic Mammograms:** Used to further investigate any abnormalities.
* **Breast Biopsies:** For tissue samples.
* **Oncologists:** Specialists in cancer treatment.
* **Surgeons:** For surgical interventions.
* **Radiation Therapy:** For targeted cancer treatment.
* **Chemotherapy:** Systemic cancer treatment.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.

The presence of these services in DuBois and Punxsutawney, and the ease of access, are crucial factors in the Breast Cancer Score. The score assesses the proximity of these services to Brockway, considering the drive times and transportation options discussed earlier.

The "moving to Brockway" perspective is crucial here. Prospective residents must know the proximity of these facilities and the ease of access.

The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View

The Breast Cancer Score for Brockway (ZIP Code 15824) is a composite assessment. It weighs the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** To key healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Uber, Lyft, and their reliability.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Companies and their services.
* **Proximity of Breast Cancer Services:** Screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
* **Cost of Transportation:** Gas, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport fees.

The final score provides a nuanced understanding of healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer care. It acknowledges that while Brockway offers a peaceful lifestyle, transportation challenges exist. This score allows individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The overall aim is to provide a clear and comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape for breast cancer care in Brockway. This knowledge is vital for residents and those considering moving to the area. It empowers them to plan for their healthcare needs and make informed decisions about their well-being. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool for informed decision-making.