16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.41 percent of residents in 16230 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 Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hawthorn, PA (ZIP Code 16230)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates readily available and reliable transportation. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for Hawthorn, PA (ZIP Code 16230), meticulously examines the transportation landscape, crucial for residents facing this disease. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Hawthorn, helping them understand the practical realities of receiving timely care.

Hawthorn, a small community nestled in Clarion County, Pennsylvania, presents unique transportation challenges. Its rural setting dictates a heavy reliance on personal vehicles, making the availability of other transportation options a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The score aims to quantify the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer services, from initial screenings to complex treatments, ensuring the best possible chance of positive outcomes.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Arteries**

The primary route for accessing specialized breast cancer care from Hawthorn involves driving. The most direct route typically utilizes Pennsylvania Route 28, a key highway connecting Hawthorn to larger towns and cities. Expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach Clarion Hospital, the closest facility offering comprehensive cancer services. This drive, while manageable, is subject to traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or surgical oncology, residents might need to travel to facilities in Pittsburgh, roughly a 1.5- to 2-hour drive. This journey usually involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 28 south, connecting to Interstate 80, then transitioning to Interstate 79. The distance and potential for traffic congestion on these highways significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments. The condition of these roadways, especially during winter months, can further complicate travel.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hawthorn are extremely limited. Clarion County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients. Service frequency is low, and routes may not directly serve medical facilities. This severely impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it restricts access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on public transit vehicles is essential for patients with mobility limitations. The Clarion County system likely offers some ADA-accessible options, but the limited service area and infrequent schedules make it a less viable option for those needing regular medical appointments. This further underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban environments. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty impacts the Breast Cancer Score, making ride-sharing a less reliable option for critical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial lifeline. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to patients with mobility issues, offering door-to-door assistance. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some, and availability needs to be verified in advance.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for Hawthorn, PA (ZIP Code 16230) is ultimately a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. The score will be lower than in more urban areas with robust public transit and readily available ride-sharing. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for long drives to specialized care, and the limited availability of alternative transportation options significantly impact the score.

The score is not simply a number; it's a reflection of the practical challenges residents face in accessing vital healthcare services. It highlights the importance of planning and preparation for those living with or facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This includes ensuring reliable transportation, exploring all available options, and understanding the potential limitations of each.

**Implications for Moving to Hawthorn**

For individuals considering moving to Hawthorn, the Breast Cancer Score provides a crucial perspective. It underscores the importance of assessing transportation needs and ensuring access to reliable healthcare. Potential residents should factor in the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transport.

The score also emphasizes the importance of pre-planning. Before moving, prospective residents should research local healthcare providers, assess transportation options, and understand the potential costs associated with accessing care. This proactive approach can significantly improve healthcare access and quality of life for those living with or at risk of breast cancer.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Breast Cancer Score for Hawthorn, PA (ZIP Code 16230) reveals a transportation landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities. While the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant hurdles, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options offers potential solutions.

Ultimately, the score highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive healthcare management for residents. By understanding the transportation realities and exploring all available resources, residents can ensure timely access to essential breast cancer services, improving their chances of positive outcomes and quality of life. The score serves as a call to action, urging residents to advocate for improved transportation options and healthcare access within the community.