16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 16361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.25 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Tylersburg (ZIP Code 16361)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It’s not merely about the availability of medical professionals; it's a multifaceted problem encompassing transportation, financial constraints, and the emotional toll of illness. For residents of Tylersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16361), understanding this equation is crucial. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, examining the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer healthcare, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall healthcare access. This is essential for anyone considering moving to Tylersburg.

The first, and often most significant, hurdle is **transportation**. Tylersburg is a rural community, and the availability of convenient and reliable transport options directly impacts healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities, such as those in Warren or Oil City, necessitates navigating a network of roads.

From Tylersburg, a trip to Warren, Pennsylvania, typically involves traveling on **PA-666 South** to **US-6 West**, a route that covers approximately 25 miles. Drive times can vary significantly based on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's speed. Under ideal conditions, the drive might take around 35 to 45 minutes. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice, the journey can easily extend to over an hour, posing a significant challenge for individuals needing timely medical attention.

Alternatively, accessing healthcare facilities in Oil City, Pennsylvania, requires a drive of approximately 35 miles. This journey generally involves taking **PA-666 South** to **PA-8 North**. Again, drive times are variable, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. The rural nature of the roads means that public transportation options are limited, which can restrict healthcare access.

Public transportation options are significantly restricted in Tylersburg. The availability of public transit is limited, presenting a major barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. There are no dedicated bus routes that directly serve Tylersburg. The closest public transit options are likely to be found in Warren or Oil City, requiring individuals to arrange for transportation to these hubs before accessing public transit.

The lack of public transit, coupled with the distances to healthcare facilities, highlights the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, which often involves frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies, offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive themselves. These services are typically designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during transport. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

The impact of transportation challenges on healthcare access is particularly pronounced for breast cancer patients. The need for regular appointments for screening, diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care necessitates frequent trips to healthcare facilities. The stress of navigating transportation logistics can exacerbate the emotional and physical toll of the disease.

The financial implications of transportation are also significant. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, or medical transport can add up quickly, placing a strain on patients' budgets. This financial burden can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting treatment outcomes.

Furthermore, the lack of accessible transportation can contribute to health disparities. Individuals with lower incomes, disabilities, or limited access to vehicles are disproportionately affected by transportation barriers. This can lead to inequities in healthcare access, with some populations facing greater challenges in receiving timely and appropriate care.

For individuals considering moving to Tylersburg, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. Prospective residents should research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation options, and potential support programs that can assist with transportation costs.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Tylersburg reflects the complex interplay of factors influencing healthcare access. The score considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options. It also takes into account the financial implications of transportation and the potential for health disparities.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' also needs to consider the ADA features of any public transit. If public transit is available, are the buses equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users? Are there designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities? Are the routes accessible to individuals with visual or auditory impairments?

The score is not simply a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer healthcare in Tylersburg. The score can be used to inform decisions about healthcare access, advocate for improved transportation options, and raise awareness of the needs of breast cancer patients in the community.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Tylersburg presents both challenges and opportunities for breast cancer patients. While the rural nature of the community limits public transit options, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides alternative solutions. However, the financial and logistical burdens associated with transportation remain significant. By understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Tylersburg, residents can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for improved transportation options. The 'Breast Cancer Score' serves as a valuable tool for assessing the current situation and guiding future efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents.