16156, Volant, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16156, Volant, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.77 percent of residents in 16156 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove City Medical Center with a distance of 7.83 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Volant, PA (ZIP Code 16156)**

The rustling leaves of Volant, Pennsylvania, whisper tales of a close-knit community, a haven nestled amidst the rolling hills of Lawrence County. But when the shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis falls, the idyllic landscape can suddenly feel vast and isolating. This assessment delves into the realities of healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 16156, analyzing the transportation landscape that dictates their ability to reach vital medical services. It's a crucial component in understanding the “Breast Cancer Score,” a measure of how easily residents can access the care they need.

The primary challenge for Volant residents is the relative scarcity of specialized medical facilities within their immediate vicinity. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and specialized breast care clinics are concentrated in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This reliance on **transportation** introduces a critical layer of complexity to the healthcare equation.

Driving is undoubtedly the most common mode of **transportation** for Volant residents. The journey to healthcare often begins on local roads like State Route 208, a thoroughfare that winds through the heart of the community. From there, the most direct route to more extensive medical facilities typically involves connecting to Interstate 79 (I-79), a major north-south artery. The drive to UPMC Jameson in New Castle, a hospital with cancer care services, is approximately a 20-30 minute trip, depending on traffic.

Heading further afield, to the renowned Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a center offering cutting-edge treatments, transforms the commute into a journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This involves traversing I-79 south, a significant time commitment that can be compounded by weather conditions, rush hour congestion, and the physical and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis. The drive to the Cleveland Clinic, another highly regarded institution, is roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, adding another layer of complexity.

Public **transportation** options in Volant are extremely limited. There is no established bus route that directly serves the community. This lack of public transit significantly disadvantages those who cannot or prefer not to drive, including individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a personal vehicle, and those who may find driving challenging due to their treatment. The absence of readily available public **transportation** elevates the importance of alternative options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Volant area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening, cannot be guaranteed. Furthermore, the expense of frequent ride-sharing trips to medical appointments can quickly become a significant financial burden, especially for patients facing other medical costs.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with travel. Companies like MedExpress and other private medical transport providers are available, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services can be booked in advance and cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including those with mobility challenges. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a critical role in ensuring that accessible **transportation** options are available. While the absence of robust public transit presents a challenge, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are generally required to offer accessible vehicles upon request. This is particularly important for patients undergoing cancer treatment who may experience physical limitations.

For those considering **moving to Volant**, understanding these **transportation** dynamics is crucial. The availability of a reliable vehicle, the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport, and the ability to navigate long drives are all factors that must be considered. The distance to specialized healthcare facilities, coupled with the limited public transit options, can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Volant, PA, is therefore significantly influenced by the **transportation** landscape. The score reflects the challenges posed by limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the distance to specialized healthcare facilities. It underscores the need for proactive measures to improve **healthcare access**, such as advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting community-based support programs, and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers.

The community can also work to establish local support groups and offer resources to help patients and their families manage the emotional and financial burdens associated with travel. Education and awareness campaigns can help residents understand the available **transportation** options and the importance of planning for medical appointments.

In conclusion, the “Breast Cancer Score” for Volant, PA, highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the scenic beauty of the area offers a sense of tranquility, the practical realities of reaching vital medical services demand careful consideration. Improving **healthcare access** requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing enhanced **transportation** options, financial assistance programs, and robust community support networks. This ensures that residents of Volant, facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis, can navigate the journey to healing with greater ease and support.