15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.90 percent of residents in 15936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hooversville (ZIP Code 15936)

The journey to effective breast cancer care in Hooversville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15936), is a complex one, interwoven with the threads of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. Evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical services, we can construct a "Breast Cancer Score" – a metric reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by those needing diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone **moving to Hooversville** or seeking to understand the local healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge facing Hooversville residents is its rural location. The town is nestled in the heart of Somerset County, with limited direct access to specialized medical facilities. This geographical isolation significantly impacts **healthcare access**, especially for those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles. The nearest major hospitals and cancer centers are located in Johnstown, approximately 20 miles to the east. This seemingly short distance translates into a considerable travel burden when dealing with the complexities of breast cancer.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare in this area. The primary route to Johnstown involves traveling east on US Route 30, a major artery connecting the region. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. The drive itself, without traffic, typically takes around 30-45 minutes.

Alternatively, residents might opt to travel via PA Route 271, a more winding and less direct route. While this road offers scenic views, it is generally slower and may be less desirable for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing fatigue. This route would add approximately 10-15 minutes to the drive time. The condition of these roads can vary, with potential for potholes and other hazards, particularly during winter months, which can further complicate travel.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The Greater Johnstown School District provides bus services, but these are primarily geared towards students and do not offer regular, convenient routes for medical appointments. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides some public transit options, but their routes and schedules are limited in the Hooversville area.

The CCTA operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service, while potentially offering door-to-door transport, is subject to availability and may not be ideal for urgent needs or frequent appointments. The CCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Hooversville is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can be sporadic in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not a guaranteed option, and the cost can quickly accumulate, adding to the financial burden of cancer care.

Medical transport services specifically designed for patients are another option. Companies like MedTrans and various local ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical transport. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options. They are often reserved for individuals who require specialized assistance or who cannot safely travel independently. The availability of these services in Hooversville is not guaranteed and requires thorough research.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Hooversville reflects the challenges in accessing care. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long travel times create a significant barrier for many residents. Individuals without access to a car, those with mobility limitations, and those undergoing treatment that causes fatigue or other side effects face the greatest difficulties.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but their cost and reliability remain concerns. The lack of local specialized medical facilities necessitates travel to Johnstown, adding to the overall stress and financial burden associated with breast cancer care. The limited options for **transportation** make it more difficult for patients to attend appointments, receive timely treatment, and access support services.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" in Hooversville requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit options, including more frequent routes and better coordination with medical facilities, would be a significant step forward. Encouraging ride-sharing services to increase their presence in the area could also improve access.

Furthermore, exploring partnerships with medical transport providers to offer subsidized services for low-income patients could alleviate some of the financial strain. Increasing awareness of existing resources and providing assistance with **transportation** logistics, such as appointment scheduling and ride coordination, can also help patients navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

For anyone **moving to Hooversville** and concerned about breast cancer care, thorough research is essential. Contacting local hospitals, cancer centers, and support organizations to understand the available resources and **healthcare access** options is crucial. Planning for **transportation** needs, including considering the availability of personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, is essential.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the **transportation** challenges faced by residents of Hooversville and other rural communities. By improving access to care, we can ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support, regardless of their location. The journey to healthcare should not be a barrier to survival.