The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
75.21 percent of residents in 15958 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 91 |
---|---|
People Score | 72 |
Provider Score | 80 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 55 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15958 | Summerhill | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.33 | 2.33 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 9.32 | 9.32 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 50.39 | 50.39 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 37.96 | 37.96 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania
The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's a journey interwoven with emotional, physical, and logistical challenges. This analysis focuses on the specific transportation landscape for individuals residing in ZIP Code 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on accessibility to crucial medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Summerhill or currently residing there.
The primary consideration is, of course, the availability of specialized breast cancer care. Within the context of transportation, this translates to the proximity of facilities offering mammograms, biopsies, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a subjective assessment, recognizing the limitations of a purely quantitative approach. It will weigh factors like travel time, mode of transportation, and the availability of support services, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities.
Summerhill, a small borough in Cambria County, presents unique transportation considerations. The mountainous terrain and rural setting influence the options available. The absence of a large metropolitan area necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or public transit to access specialized medical care. The nearest significant healthcare hubs are in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away, and Altoona, roughly 45 miles distant.
Driving is the most common mode of transportation. The primary routes connecting Summerhill to Johnstown include Route 219, a major north-south artery, and local roads like Route 53. Travel time to Johnstown's hospitals, such as UPMC Altoona Hospital and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, can vary from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. These hospitals offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, and chemotherapy.
Reaching Altoona, with its larger healthcare infrastructure, involves navigating Route 22, a major east-west highway. The drive, however, is significantly longer, typically taking around an hour. While Altoona boasts a wider array of specialized care, including radiation oncology centers, the increased travel time presents a considerable burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact travel times and safety.
Public transportation options are limited in Summerhill. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and do not directly serve the hospitals in Johnstown or Altoona. While the CCTA operates within Johnstown, access from Summerhill would require multiple transfers and significantly extend travel times. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial, but the limited route network presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their reliability and cost can be inconsistent. Availability is often lower in rural areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services unaffordable for some. For patients requiring regular appointments, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become prohibitive.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, are available, but their coverage area and cost vary. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and offering support for patients who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services in the Summerhill area needs to be thoroughly investigated.
The "Breast Cancer Score" for Summerhill, 15958, is influenced by the following factors: The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles, with drive times to Johnstown hospitals being relatively reasonable. However, the limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the distance to Altoona's specialized centers negatively impact the score. The availability of medical transportation services and the overall condition of the roads also play a significant role.
Considering these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Summerhill is moderate. While residents have access to breast cancer care within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of alternative transportation options and the potential for increased travel times during adverse conditions pose challenges. Individuals considering moving to Summerhill must carefully weigh the accessibility of healthcare services against other lifestyle factors.
To improve the "Breast Cancer Score," several initiatives could be implemented. Enhancing the CCTA bus routes to include direct service to hospitals in Johnstown and Altoona would significantly improve healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their availability in the area would also be beneficial. Furthermore, providing financial assistance for medical transportation services could alleviate the burden on patients.
Ultimately, the journey to healthcare is a personal one. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. By considering the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, residents of Summerhill can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in healthcare access within their community. This includes those considering moving to Summerhill, for whom understanding these factors is essential.
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