16360, Townville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16360, Townville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.04 percent of residents in 16360 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Titusville Hospital with a distance of 11.02 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Townville (ZIP Code 16360)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, extends far beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the intricate web of transportation options available, impacting access to timely diagnoses, treatments, and crucial support systems. For residents of Townville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16360), understanding this landscape is paramount. This analysis unveils the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community, evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare through the lens of transportation.

Townville, nestled in the heart of Crawford County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and the challenges of a geographically dispersed population. This necessitates a careful examination of transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times to specialized medical facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options. These factors, when interwoven, paint a clearer picture of the ease or difficulty a resident faces in accessing vital breast cancer care.

The primary artery for transportation in and out of Townville is **Pennsylvania Route 77**, which connects the community to larger population centers. Driving to the closest comprehensive cancer center, UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania, a journey of approximately 45 miles, typically takes around an hour and fifteen minutes. This drive, primarily via **Interstate 79**, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters. Similarly, accessing the Meadville Medical Center, located about 20 miles away, involves a drive of roughly 30 minutes, primarily along **US Route 6**. These drive times, while manageable, can pose challenges for individuals undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transit in Townville is limited. The primary provider, Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA), operates throughout Crawford County. However, service frequency and route coverage are limited in this rural area. There are no direct routes to Erie or Meadville from Townville. This means that using public transit for cancer care requires multiple transfers and extended travel times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, although present, may be limited on certain routes, potentially creating barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. This deficiency in public transit accessibility significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for Townville residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not consistent. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be scarce in rural areas. This unpredictability can create anxiety for individuals needing reliable transportation to appointments. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances, can also be a significant financial burden, potentially limiting access to care for those with limited financial resources. The inconsistent presence and potential cost of ride-sharing services negatively impact the "Breast Cancer Score."

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies serve the Crawford County area, including LifeFleet Ambulance Service and Regional Medical Transport. However, the availability of these services can vary, and pre-booking is often required. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage may not always fully cover the expenses, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Townville, Pennsylvania (16360), is moderate. While the drive times to essential medical facilities are manageable for many, the limitations in public transit, the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access for some residents. The impact of these transportation challenges is particularly pronounced for individuals undergoing frequent treatments, those with mobility limitations, and those with limited financial resources.

For individuals considering moving to Townville, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, it is crucial to factor in these transportation considerations. Planning for transportation needs, exploring available resources, and advocating for improved public transit options are essential steps in enhancing the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community. This includes proactively investigating the availability of medical transportation services, researching potential financial assistance programs, and exploring the possibility of carpooling or utilizing community support networks.

The local healthcare providers and community organizations play a vital role in bridging the transportation gap. They can provide information about available resources, offer assistance with transportation arrangements, and advocate for policies that improve healthcare access. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a more supportive environment for individuals facing breast cancer.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of Townville residents. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all individuals have equal access to the care they need. By understanding the challenges and working collaboratively to find solutions, Townville can strive to improve its "Breast Cancer Score" and create a healthier community for all. Improving the transportation landscape is not only about convenience; it's about ensuring that everyone has a fair chance at receiving timely and effective breast cancer care.