16416, Garland, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16416, Garland, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

9.09 percent of residents in 16416 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lecom Health Corry Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.87 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garland, PA (ZIP Code 16416)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Garland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16416), the journey to healthcare, specifically for breast cancer treatment and support, is a crucial factor in their overall well-being. This "Breast Cancer Score" analyzes the accessibility of vital healthcare services, focusing on transportation options available within and around this rural community. Understanding these complexities is essential, especially for individuals **moving to Garland**, as it directly impacts their **healthcare access**.

The primary consideration is the proximity to comprehensive breast cancer care. In the absence of specialized facilities directly within Garland, residents rely on neighboring towns and cities. The closest options typically involve travel to Warren, PA, or Erie, PA, each presenting unique **transportation** challenges.

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** for residents. From Garland, the drive to Warren, home to Warren General Hospital, typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 6, a two-lane highway that can be subject to seasonal weather conditions. The drive is approximately 15 miles and usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. This route is generally straightforward, but it is critical to be prepared for potential delays, particularly during winter months.

For more specialized care, residents often journey to Erie, a larger city offering a wider array of medical facilities. The drive to Erie from Garland covers approximately 50 miles, primarily via Pennsylvania Route 6, connecting to Interstate 86, and then onto Interstate 90. This route offers a more direct and faster travel time, typically ranging from 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic. However, the use of interstates also introduces the possibility of higher speed limits and more complex driving conditions.

Public **transportation** options in Garland are limited. The region lacks a robust public transit system, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare facilities. There is no dedicated bus route serving Garland specifically. Individuals relying on public transit would need to arrange for a combination of services, potentially involving a ride to a nearby town with bus service, and then transferring to a route heading towards Warren or Erie. This process can be time-consuming and cumbersome, significantly impacting **healthcare access**.

The lack of a structured public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of accessible bus routes, with features like ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, further compounds this issue. This lack of ADA-compliant **transportation** options creates a substantial barrier to **healthcare access** for those who need it most.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability can vary, particularly in rural areas. While these services offer a potential solution for individuals without personal vehicles, they can be expensive, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can become a significant financial burden, potentially deterring individuals from seeking timely medical care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like MedTrans or other regional providers may offer services in the Garland area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services are often subject to availability and may require advance booking.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Garland, PA, considers the following factors: the distance to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities, the availability and reliability of various **transportation** options, the cost of **transportation**, and the accessibility of these options for individuals with disabilities. The score reflects the overall ease with which residents can access the necessary medical care, impacting their ability to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and support.

For those **moving to Garland**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is crucial. It is essential to consider the potential time commitment and financial implications of accessing healthcare services. Individuals with existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments, should carefully evaluate their **healthcare access** needs and plan accordingly.

The limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services highlight the importance of individual planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** resources, including medical **transportation** providers, and establish a reliable plan for accessing healthcare.

The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** in Garland. This includes advocating for enhanced public **transportation** options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized rides for medical appointments, and promoting the availability of medical **transportation** services. By addressing these challenges, the community can strive to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the vital healthcare services they need, particularly those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.