15929, Dilltown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15929, Dilltown, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.92 percent of residents in 15929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dilltown (ZIP Code 15929)

The quaint charm of Dilltown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15929), nestled amidst the rolling hills of Indiana County, offers a tranquil escape. But for those considering a move, particularly women, understanding healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the realities of transportation and healthcare access in this rural community, providing a clearer picture for prospective residents.

The cornerstone of this assessment is transportation. Dilltown's relative isolation necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Dilltown to larger healthcare hubs are Route 403, a north-south thoroughfare, and Route 56, which traverses east-west. These two highways are critical for accessing specialized medical facilities, including those equipped to handle breast cancer diagnoses and treatment. Travel times, however, are a crucial factor.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare provider, UPMC Altoona, located approximately 45 miles east, typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via Route 56 East and then US-22 East. This journey, while manageable, can be taxing, especially for frequent appointments or during inclement weather. The route, though mostly well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, particularly around the city of Johnstown.

For those seeking care at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, a shorter drive of about 25 miles via Route 56 East is necessary. The drive time is generally around 40 minutes, making it a more accessible option for routine screenings and some treatments. However, the availability of specialized oncology services and advanced imaging may influence the choice of facility.

Johnstown, the nearest city, offers more comprehensive healthcare options. The drive, though relatively short, still presents a transportation barrier. The time commitment for regular appointments, such as mammograms, can significantly impact a patient's schedule and well-being. The ability to secure timely and convenient transportation is thus a critical component of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Dilltown are extremely limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the city of Indiana, approximately 15 miles away. The ICTA's services are not designed to cater to the specific needs of healthcare transportation, and routes to Johnstown or Altoona are not readily available. ADA accessibility is a factor to consider; however, the limited service makes it a less viable option for those requiring regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown and Indiana areas, but their presence in Dilltown is sporadic. Availability is heavily dependent on driver availability and can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is risky, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed care.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. However, these services are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those unable to drive. While they offer a crucial lifeline for certain patients, they are not a practical solution for routine screenings or follow-up appointments. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden.

The lack of robust public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services in Dilltown highlight the importance of personal vehicle ownership. This reality underscores the need for residents to maintain their vehicles and budget for fuel and maintenance costs. For those without personal vehicles, the challenges of accessing healthcare are significantly amplified.

The availability of breast cancer screening services within Dilltown itself is limited. While some primary care physicians may offer basic screenings, specialized imaging services, such as mammograms and ultrasounds, are typically available only at hospitals or specialized imaging centers in Johnstown or Altoona. This necessitates travel, adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score for Dilltown, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create a transportation barrier that can impact the timeliness and convenience of healthcare.

Moving to Dilltown requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents, particularly women, should assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This includes factoring in the time and cost associated with travel to healthcare facilities, the potential for delays, and the need for reliable transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It emphasizes the need for proactive planning, the importance of reliable transportation, and the potential impact of these factors on overall health and well-being.

The journey to healthcare in Dilltown is a journey that requires careful navigation. Understanding the transportation landscape is the first step in ensuring access to the vital services needed for breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The ability to overcome these transportation barriers is essential for maintaining good health and thriving in this rural community.