16142, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16142, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.43 percent of residents in 16142 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Jameson with a distance of 8.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Wilmington (ZIP Code 16142)

The journey to breast cancer care in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16142), is a complex equation. Beyond the disease itself, factors like transportation, healthcare access, and the availability of specialized services significantly impact a patient's experience and outcomes. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, explores these elements, offering a nuanced understanding for residents and those considering moving to New Wilmington.

The primary challenge is the relative isolation of the area. New Wilmington, a charming borough, is nestled in Lawrence County, a region with limited public transportation options. This makes personal **transportation** a necessity for most residents seeking **healthcare access**. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel.

**Drive Times: The Highway to Hope**

The most direct route to significant medical facilities involves driving. The primary artery for travel is **US Route 224**, which runs east-west through New Wilmington. Heading east, this road connects to **Interstate 79**, a major north-south highway. Driving south on I-79 provides access to Pittsburgh, a city with numerous hospitals and cancer centers.

The drive to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a nationally recognized facility, is approximately 60 miles. Under ideal traffic conditions, this journey takes around one hour and fifteen minutes. However, rush hour, construction, or inclement weather can significantly extend this travel time. The **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)** offers an alternative, albeit a toll road, potentially shaving off some time, especially during peak hours.

For those seeking care at Allegheny Health Network (AHN) facilities in Pittsburgh, the drive is similar, utilizing the same highway network. The specific destination within the city dictates the exact travel time, but generally, expect a similar duration.

To the west, **US Route 62** offers a less direct route to facilities in the Youngstown, Ohio area. While geographically closer, the quality of care and specialized services may be less comprehensive compared to Pittsburgh. Driving to the closest hospital in Youngstown takes approximately 30 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in New Wilmington are severely limited. The local bus system is virtually non-existent. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, those with mobility limitations, or those unable to drive.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA) offers a demand-response service. This service requires advance booking and operates within Lawrence County. However, it's not designed for frequent trips to distant medical centers. The LCTA does not have any vehicles that are ADA-accessible.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be limited in a rural area like New Wilmington. The cost of ride-sharing to Pittsburgh can be substantial, making it an unsustainable option for regular appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and LogistiCare. These services require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the policy and medical necessity.

However, access to NEMT can be challenging. Availability may be limited, especially for appointments scheduled at short notice. The quality of service and the comfort level of the vehicles can also vary.

**Accessibility Considerations: Navigating Challenges**

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible **transportation** options is a significant concern. The limited availability of ADA-compliant vehicles on public transit and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services exacerbate this issue.

When considering **healthcare access** in New Wilmington, individuals with mobility limitations must carefully assess their **transportation** options. They should investigate the availability of accessible vehicles through NEMT services and confirm that the medical facilities they plan to visit offer accessible parking, entrances, and examination rooms.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for New Wilmington, therefore, is not simply a numerical value. It's a qualitative assessment that highlights the complexities of accessing breast cancer care. The score is impacted by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance to specialized cancer centers in Pittsburgh is significant, requiring travel times that can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of reliable public **transportation** severely limits **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport:** While options exist, their reliability, cost, and availability can be barriers.
* **Accessibility:** The limited availability of accessible **transportation** poses challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Moving to New Wilmington: A Thoughtful Decision**

For individuals considering **moving to New Wilmington**, this analysis underscores the importance of carefully evaluating **transportation** needs and **healthcare access**. While the area offers a peaceful and charming environment, the relative isolation necessitates careful planning for medical care.

Prospective residents should investigate the availability of medical **transportation** services, assess their ability to drive or arrange for rides, and consider the proximity of specialized cancer centers. They should also research the insurance coverage for **transportation** and medical services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for New Wilmington is not a deterrent, but a call for informed decision-making. By understanding the challenges and exploring available resources, residents can navigate the journey to breast cancer care with greater confidence and peace of mind. The score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about medical expertise, but also about the ability to reach that expertise when needed.