16341, Pleasantville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16341, Pleasantville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.98 percent of residents in 16341 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Titusville Hospital with a distance of 6.04 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16341

Pleasantville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Allegheny National Forest, presents a unique challenge when assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 16341, delves into the critical element of transportation, examining the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This is paramount, as timely and convenient access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care significantly impacts patient outcomes. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

The primary artery connecting Pleasantville to major healthcare providers is **Pennsylvania Route 36**, a winding road that snakes through the scenic countryside. Driving times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are a crucial factor. To UPMC Northwest in Seneca, a drive of approximately 25 miles, takes about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a relatively manageable commute for routine appointments.

However, for more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, patients in Pleasantville often need to travel further. UPMC Hamot in Erie, a regional hub for advanced cancer treatment, is approximately 70 miles away. The journey typically involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 36** to **U.S. Route 6**, then connecting to **Interstate 86**, and finally **Interstate 90**. This drive can take upwards of 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, a significant time commitment, especially for individuals undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue.

Public transportation options in Pleasantville and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Venango County Regional Transit Authority (VCTA)** provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to distant healthcare facilities. Moreover, the VCTA's services may not have routes that directly serve the major cancer centers. This lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. While some routes may offer ADA accessibility, the frequency and coverage are not conducive for cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While these services provide a convenient option for occasional trips, the expense can quickly become prohibitive for frequent appointments, especially considering the long distances involved. The availability of ride-sharing is also subject to driver availability, which may be limited in a rural area like Pleasantville, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and **LogistiCare** may provide non-emergency medical transportation, including rides to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Pleasantville and the associated costs must be carefully considered. Furthermore, these services often require advance booking, which may not be ideal for urgent needs or unexpected complications.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Pleasantville, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, coupled with limited public transit and variable ride-sharing options, creates a complex scenario. The long distances to specialized cancer centers add to the burden, particularly for patients undergoing treatment.

The score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis. It encompasses the stress of coordinating transportation, the financial implications of long commutes, and the potential for delays in accessing care.

For someone considering moving to Pleasantville, this score highlights the need for careful planning. Prospective residents should consider their transportation needs and assess their ability to manage the commute to healthcare facilities. This is especially crucial for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those at high risk for developing cancer.

The ideal scenario would involve improved public transportation, increased ride-sharing availability, and expanded medical transportation services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and transportation companies is essential to improve healthcare access for residents of Pleasantville and similar rural communities.

Furthermore, telehealth services can play a vital role in mitigating the transportation challenges. Remote consultations, virtual support groups, and online educational resources can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. However, the availability of reliable internet access in Pleasantville is also a factor that must be considered.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 16341 underscores the importance of addressing transportation barriers to healthcare access. By understanding the existing challenges and exploring innovative solutions, we can strive to ensure that all residents of Pleasantville, regardless of their circumstances, have timely and convenient access to the life-saving care they deserve. The journey to recovery should not be made more difficult by the limitations of transportation; therefore, the score serves as a call to action.