16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.63 percent of residents in 16131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 9.59 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16131

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a critical component of treatment and recovery. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 16131 (Hartstown, Pennsylvania), evaluates the accessibility of breast cancer care, considering various transportation options. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking timely and convenient access to essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, all vital elements in navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Hartstown, PA, and needing to understand healthcare access.

Hartstown, a small community nestled in Crawford County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area often translates to longer travel times and limited public transit options, impacting healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges these realities, providing a comprehensive assessment to help residents and potential newcomers understand the landscape of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving to Care:**

The primary mode of transportation in Hartstown is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The closest hospitals with oncology departments and specialized breast cancer services are located in Meadville, approximately 20 miles east. The drive, primarily via **US-6**, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further afield, the journey to larger medical centers in Erie, about 60 miles northwest, takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, utilizing **I-79 North** and **US-19 North**. These larger facilities offer a wider range of specialized services, including clinical trials and advanced treatment options. The drive to Pittsburgh, approximately 100 miles south, is a two-hour trip via **I-79 South**. These longer drives, while offering more comprehensive care, can pose significant challenges for patients undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Road conditions, particularly during winter months, can further complicate these commutes. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. The Breast Cancer Score must account for these seasonal variations, recognizing that healthcare access is not static but fluctuates with environmental factors.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Hartstown are extremely limited, impacting the Breast Cancer Score negatively. Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some service within Crawford County, but its routes and schedules are not designed to serve the specific needs of breast cancer patients. Fixed-route buses are infrequent, and demand-response services (dial-a-ride) require advance booking, making them unsuitable for urgent appointments or unexpected needs. The lack of readily available public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

ADA accessibility on the limited CATA services is a crucial consideration. While CATA strives to provide accessible services, the rural nature of the routes and the limited frequency of service can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect the challenges faced by those who rely on public transportation and the need for improved and more accessible services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hartstown area, but their reliability and availability are not guaranteed. The rural nature of the area means that drivers may be scarce, and wait times can be lengthy. This uncertainty can be particularly stressful for patients who need to attend appointments on time. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect the limitations of ride-sharing in this context.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in patient transportation, provide a more reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited. The Breast Cancer Score must factor in the cost and availability of medical transport services.

**The Score and the Implications:**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 16131 will be influenced by the combination of these factors. The score will be lower due to the longer drive times, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. The score will be partially offset by the availability of medical transport services, although the cost and potential limitations of these services must be considered.

The implications of this score are significant. Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in Hartstown may face challenges in accessing timely and convenient care. The longer travel times can add to the stress and burden of treatment. The lack of reliable public transportation can isolate patients and limit their access to support services. The cost of ride-sharing or medical transport can create financial strain.

For those considering moving to Hartstown, this Breast Cancer Score provides essential information. It highlights the importance of having a reliable mode of transportation and the potential need to plan for longer travel times to access specialized care. It also underscores the need for community support and advocacy to improve healthcare access in this rural area.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 16131, several actions are recommended. Expanding public transportation options, including more frequent routes and demand-response services, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Increasing awareness of medical transport services and exploring options for financial assistance would help alleviate the financial burden on patients.

Finally, community support networks are crucial. Establishing volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives can help patients get to appointments. Creating support groups and educational programs within the community can provide emotional support and information about available resources. These initiatives, combined with efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, will contribute to a higher Breast Cancer Score and ensure that residents of Hartstown have access to the care they need. This is critical for those moving to Hartstown.