The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
60.42 percent of residents in 16145 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove City Medical Center with a distance of 15.08 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 45 |
---|---|
People Score | 43 |
Provider Score | 63 |
Hospital Score | 41 |
Travel Score | 38 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 16145 | Sandy Lake | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.15 | 2.15 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 15.94 | 15.94 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 44.18 | 44.18 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 37.74 | 37.74 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 16145, Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania
**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sandy Lake, PA (ZIP Code 16145)**
The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting, a reality that demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16145), the journey to quality care involves navigating the complexities of transportation, a crucial factor in determining the Breast Cancer Score. This score reflects the ease with which individuals can access essential services, from initial screenings to specialized treatments, impacting their overall prognosis and quality of life. Considering the challenges of rural healthcare, we'll explore the transportation landscape, offering insights for those seeking healthcare or contemplating moving to Sandy Lake.
Sandy Lake, a small community nestled in Mercer County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area's relative isolation means residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for mobility. The primary arteries serving the region are Pennsylvania Route 62 and Pennsylvania Route 358. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters. The drive to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities in larger cities like Pittsburgh or Erie necessitates a significant time commitment, factoring in potential traffic and road conditions.
Drive times are a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. A patient in Sandy Lake needing a diagnostic mammogram might drive to UPMC Horizon in Greenville, PA, a journey of approximately 15 minutes via PA-62. However, for more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or surgical oncology, the commute expands considerably. The drive to UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh, a renowned cancer center, is roughly 75 miles, translating to a drive time of around one hour and 30 minutes, primarily via Interstate 79. This journey is significantly longer, adding stress and fatigue to an already challenging situation.
Public transportation options in Sandy Lake are limited. Mercer County offers a demand-response system, the Mercer County Regional Transit Authority (MCRTA). This service, though available, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent appointments or frequent visits. The MCRTA does not have fixed routes or ADA-accessible buses that can travel to Pittsburgh. The lack of robust public transit presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.
Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Sandy Lake area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments is often expensive and unreliable, potentially delaying or preventing timely access to care. The cost of these services can also add to the financial burden of cancer treatment, a significant concern for many patients.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments, provide an alternative. Companies like MedTrans and Logisticare operate in the region, offering scheduled transportation for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, availability and scheduling can be a challenge, requiring advance planning and coordination. Patients need to be aware of the limitations and potential delays associated with these services.
The Breast Cancer Score for Sandy Lake reflects the cumulative impact of these transportation factors. The score is negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the potential for weather-related delays, and the challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. While the presence of local medical facilities offers some convenience, the need for specialized care often necessitates long-distance travel, increasing the burden on patients.
The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. The American Cancer Society and other organizations offer transportation assistance programs, providing financial aid or volunteer drivers to help patients reach their appointments. These programs can be invaluable, but their availability and eligibility requirements vary. Access to these resources can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score for individuals in need.
For those considering moving to Sandy Lake, the Breast Cancer Score should be a significant consideration. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the potential impact on their healthcare access. The availability of support networks, the distance to specialized care facilities, and the reliability of transportation services are all critical factors to assess.
In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Sandy Lake, PA (ZIP Code 16145) reflects the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare in a rural setting. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents significant hurdles. The drive times to specialized care centers, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles all contribute to a lower score. However, the availability of ride-sharing, medical transportation services, and support programs can mitigate some of these challenges. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, or those considering moving to Sandy Lake, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely access to quality care and improving the overall prognosis. It is important to be proactive and research all available resources. This includes researching the MCRTA, ride-share services, and medical transport options. Careful planning and a proactive approach can help navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Sandy Lake.
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