16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.15 percent of residents in 16153 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove City Medical Center with a distance of 12.10 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stoneboro, PA (ZIP Code 16153)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Stoneboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16153), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is a complex one, intricately woven with the threads of transportation. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the landscape of healthcare accessibility, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a clear picture for those facing this critical health challenge.

Stoneboro, a serene community nestled in Mercer County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation presents challenges when it comes to specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are located in larger regional hubs, necessitating travel. This "Breast Cancer Score" is designed to assist individuals considering a move to Stoneboro, or those already residing there, in understanding the realities of healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Destinations**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Stoneboro is the automobile. The most direct routes to specialized breast cancer care involve navigating the region's network of highways and roads. The journey to UPMC Horizon in Greenville, PA, a facility offering diagnostic services and some treatment options, is a relatively short drive. Departing from Stoneboro, one would typically embark on **PA-358** east, connecting to **US-62** north. The drive, generally under 15 minutes, provides a crucial first step in the diagnostic process.

For more advanced treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, patients often need to travel further. The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Farrell, PA, is a key destination. The drive involves taking **PA-358** east to **I-79** south, then connecting to **US-62** north. This journey, averaging around 30-45 minutes, represents a significant time commitment, especially for frequent appointments.

Another option, the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute at Sharon Regional Medical Center, also in Sharon, PA, is accessible via a similar route. Traveling east on **PA-358** to **I-79** south, then connecting to **US-62** north, the drive is also approximately 30-45 minutes. These travel times, however, are subject to traffic conditions, which can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours.

The time spent in transit is more than just an inconvenience; it can be a significant factor in a patient's overall well-being. The physical and emotional toll of long drives, coupled with the stress of a cancer diagnosis, underscores the importance of efficient and reliable transportation options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in the Stoneboro area are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) operates a demand-response public transit system, offering door-to-door service. However, this service requires advance booking and is not specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients.

The availability of public transit to the major healthcare facilities is challenging. While the MCRPC may provide transportation to locations within Mercer County, the travel times and scheduling constraints may not be suitable for frequent appointments or urgent needs. The lack of fixed-route public transit, with its predictable schedules and accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating for those with disabilities (ADA features), further complicates the situation. The reliance on demand-response services can introduce uncertainty and delays, impacting the timely delivery of care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Stoneboro and the surrounding areas is variable. While they may be accessible, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips. Furthermore, ride-sharing drivers may not be equipped to handle the specific needs of cancer patients, such as assisting with mobility or providing emotional support.

Medical transport services, specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, represent a valuable resource. Companies such as MedTrans and others provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services can be particularly helpful for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Stoneboro, PA, highlights the importance of transportation in accessing breast cancer care. The score is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive to Greenville for initial diagnostics is a positive factor. However, the longer drive times to Farrell and Sharon for advanced treatment pose a challenge.
* **Public Transit:** The limited availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services present both opportunities and limitations.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services offer a valuable resource, but the cost and insurance coverage must be carefully considered.

**Moving to Stoneboro: A Holistic Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Stoneboro, or for those already residing there, this "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the need for careful planning. Access to reliable transportation is paramount. This includes having a personal vehicle, exploring ride-sharing options, and investigating the availability of medical transport services.

The decision to move to Stoneboro should be made with a full understanding of the healthcare landscape. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical care necessitates proactive planning. This includes establishing relationships with healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and developing a contingency plan for unexpected medical needs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a reminder that healthcare access is not solely about the availability of medical facilities. It is also about the ability to reach those facilities, a factor profoundly influenced by the availability of transportation. This analysis serves as a guide, empowering residents of Stoneboro and prospective newcomers to navigate the complexities of healthcare access with informed confidence. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough; ensuring access to timely and effective care should never be an additional burden.