16428, North East, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16428, North East, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.51 percent of residents in 16428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hamot with a distance of 13.92 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16428

Considering a move to North East, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16428)? Evaluating healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to and from relevant medical facilities. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for potential residents.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a formal medical metric. It's a qualitative assessment of the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer-related healthcare in a given area. Factors considered include proximity to facilities, transportation options, and the availability of services. A higher score suggests better accessibility.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

North East, nestled in Erie County, offers a relatively straightforward transportation landscape. The primary artery is **Interstate 86 (I-86)**, which connects the town to major regional hubs. Heading east, I-86 provides access to New York State and its associated healthcare facilities. Westward, it merges with **Interstate 90 (I-90)**, connecting to Erie and its comprehensive medical centers.

Driving to Erie, approximately 20 miles west, is a common healthcare destination. The drive along I-90 typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable commute for routine screenings and appointments. For more specialized care, the journey may extend to facilities further within Erie, such as UPMC Hamot or AHN Saint Vincent Hospital.

Traveling east, towards Jamestown, New York, via I-86, offers another option. The drive is roughly 30-45 minutes, depending on the specific destination. This provides a second potential pathway to healthcare, diversifying access options. Smaller roads, like **Route 89** and **Route 20**, offer alternative routes, though they may add time and are less reliable during inclement weather.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in 16428 are limited. The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) primarily serves Erie City and its surrounding areas. While EMTA does not directly service North East, a potential option involves driving to a park-and-ride location in Erie and utilizing the bus system. This would involve a longer commute and multiple transfers, which could be challenging for individuals undergoing treatment or with mobility limitations.

Unfortunately, the EMTA system lacks direct routes to North East. The absence of a robust public transit network significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This lack of accessibility is a major consideration when evaluating healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Erie area and may serve North East. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular appointments could be unreliable and potentially expensive.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and other specialized providers, offer dedicated transportation for medical appointments. These services cater to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance. While these options provide a crucial service, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking. Their availability and coverage area within 16428 should be thoroughly investigated.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

The primary healthcare facilities serving 16428 are located in Erie. These include UPMC Hamot, AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, and various outpatient clinics and imaging centers. These facilities offer comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Accessing these facilities is primarily dependent on personal vehicles or ride-sharing, given the limited public transit. The drive times, as discussed, are generally manageable. However, the reliance on personal transportation can be a barrier for some individuals.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 16428 is moderate. The area benefits from its proximity to Erie and its comprehensive healthcare facilities. The drive times are generally reasonable. However, the lack of robust public transit significantly impacts accessibility. The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and medical transportation options come with added costs.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive or have access to a reliable vehicle. This is crucial for accessing healthcare services.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing Availability:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Investigate Medical Transportation:** Identify and contact medical transportation providers to understand their services, costs, and coverage area.
* **Factor in Appointment Scheduling:** Plan appointments strategically, considering potential travel times and traffic conditions.
* **Consider Proximity to Amenities:** When choosing a residence, consider proximity to major roadways and healthcare facilities.

**Moving to North East:**

Moving to North East offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to regional amenities. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options is essential. While the drive times to Erie are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the care they require. The Breast Cancer Score, though qualitative, helps highlight the importance of this planning.