16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.56 percent of residents in 16114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 10.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarks Mills (ZIP Code 16114)

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding not only expert medical care but also accessible and reliable transportation to and from treatment. For residents of Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16114), understanding the nuances of **transportation** options is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" of sorts, assesses the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer-related **healthcare** services, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative **transportation** solutions. It’s a vital consideration for anyone **moving to Clarks Mills**, or already residing there, seeking peace of mind regarding their healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in this rural area is the automobile. Driving is the primary mode of **transportation**, and the efficiency of this system heavily influences the Breast Cancer Score. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Mercer and Sharon, Pennsylvania, both requiring a car trip. From Clarks Mills, the journey to UPMC Horizon in Farrell, PA, typically involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, mainly via US-19 South and then PA-62 West. Traffic is generally light, allowing for a predictable commute.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, the drive to the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute at West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, is a more significant undertaking. This trip, spanning approximately 75-90 minutes, necessitates navigating a longer stretch of US-19 South, merging onto I-79 North, and finally exiting onto the city streets. While the interstate offers a smoother ride, potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time. This longer drive, while offering access to a wider range of specialized services, diminishes the Breast Cancer Score.

Public **transportation** options in Clarks Mills are limited. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission operates a demand-response system, offering door-to-door service within the county. However, this service is not specifically designed for medical appointments and may require advance booking. Furthermore, the service area is limited, and the potential for delays is a factor. This limited availability of public **transportation** substantially lowers the Breast Cancer Score for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. There are no fixed-route bus lines serving Clarks Mills, further restricting access to **healthcare** facilities via public transit.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides can also be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals undergoing long-term treatment. The dependence on ride-sharing, while offering a potential solution, does not significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score due to the inherent uncertainties.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer another option. Companies like MedRide and First Transit Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, potentially impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The availability and cost of these services are essential factors to consider when assessing the overall accessibility of **healthcare**.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of **transportation** options is a critical consideration. While the Mercer County Regional Planning Commission's demand-response system is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles for ride-sharing services is less consistent. Patients with mobility limitations must verify the availability of accessible vehicles when booking ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services. This factor underscores the importance of planning and coordination when navigating the **healthcare** system.

The Breast Cancer Score is also influenced by the proximity of pharmacies and support services. Access to medication and support groups is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. Clarks Mills has limited local options, meaning residents will need to drive to neighboring towns like Greenville or Mercer to fill prescriptions or attend support meetings. The additional travel time and potential for increased stress associated with these trips further impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Clarks Mills, PA (ZIP Code 16114), is moderate. While the proximity to UPMC Horizon in Farrell offers relatively quick access to **healthcare**, the lack of robust public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create challenges. The longer drive to specialized centers in Pittsburgh, the limited availability of local support services, and the potential costs associated with alternative **transportation** options further reduce the score.

For individuals **moving to Clarks Mills** or currently residing there, it is imperative to consider the **transportation** implications of a potential breast cancer diagnosis. Planning for reliable **transportation** options, researching available medical **transportation** services, and understanding the potential costs associated with these services are essential. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure seamless access to **healthcare** and support throughout the treatment journey. This score is not a definitive measure but a guide to help residents understand the realities of **healthcare** access in their community.