16442, Wattsburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16442, Wattsburg, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.89 percent of residents in 16442 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lecom Health Corry Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.97 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wattsburg, PA (ZIP Code 16442)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as breast cancer, is more than a medical appointment; it’s a complex navigation through time, distance, and available resources. For residents of Wattsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16442), this journey requires careful consideration of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," assessing the practicalities of reaching essential medical services, offering a comprehensive view for anyone **moving to Wattsburg** or seeking to understand the local healthcare landscape.

Wattsburg itself is a small, rural community nestled in Erie County. The nearest major medical facilities are in Erie, a city approximately 20 miles to the northwest. The primary challenge for residents of 16442 is the reliance on personal vehicles, given the limited public **transportation** infrastructure.

The most direct route to Erie involves a drive along **Pennsylvania Route 99** heading north, which then merges onto **Interstate 86** (also known as the Southern Tier Expressway). The drive typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Erie. This drive time can be significantly impacted by weather, especially during the harsh winters common in the region. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous, extending travel times and potentially hindering access to timely medical care.

Alternatively, residents can take **Pennsylvania Route 8** north, which also leads to Erie. This route is generally slower, with more traffic signals and a lower speed limit. However, it offers an alternative in case of accidents or closures on Route 99 or Interstate 86.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Wattsburg. The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides bus service throughout Erie County, but its routes rarely extend to Wattsburg itself. There are no direct bus routes connecting Wattsburg to Erie. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with financial constraints.

For individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. However, the availability of these services in Wattsburg may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could significantly increase costs. The cost of a ride-share to Erie could easily exceed $50, making it an expensive option for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical **transportation** providers, are another option. These services are typically designed for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services may be reserved for those who meet specific medical criteria or require advanced care.

The availability of these services and their associated costs must be considered. The Breast Cancer Score will factor in the accessibility of these services and their affordability for residents.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the proximity of various medical facilities in Erie. The primary hospitals in the area include UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital. Both offer comprehensive cancer care services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The distance to these facilities, as well as the availability of specialists, will be evaluated.

The score will also assess the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms, in the Wattsburg area. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, and convenient access to screening services is essential.

The Breast Cancer Score will also factor in the availability of support services for breast cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs. These services can play a vital role in helping patients cope with the emotional and financial challenges of breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score will be based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest access. The score will be determined by considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest major medical facilities in Erie.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and frequency of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* **Proximity of Medical Facilities:** The distance to hospitals and cancer treatment centers.
* **Availability of Screening Services:** The availability of mammography and other screening services.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs.

**Specific Considerations for Wattsburg Residents:**

* **Weather:** The impact of winter weather on travel times and road conditions is a significant factor.
* **Rural Location:** The rural nature of Wattsburg limits access to public **transportation** and specialized medical services.
* **Financial Constraints:** The cost of **transportation**, including gas, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**, can be a significant burden for some residents.
* **Age and Disability:** Seniors and individuals with disabilities may face additional challenges in accessing **transportation** and medical care.

**The Breast Cancer Score for Wattsburg, PA (ZIP Code 16442):**

Based on the factors outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for Wattsburg, PA (ZIP Code 16442) is estimated to be a **4 out of 10**.

This score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for increased travel times due to weather all contribute to this score. While Erie offers comprehensive medical services, the distance and **transportation** barriers create significant hurdles for residents of Wattsburg.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for Expanded Public Transportation:** Residents should advocate for extending EMTA bus routes to Wattsburg or implementing a demand-response **transportation** service.
* **Explore Community Partnerships:** Collaborate with local organizations to provide **transportation** assistance to those in need.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Encourage the availability of ride-sharing services in the area and explore options for subsidized rides.
* **Support Telehealth Initiatives:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments.
* **Increase Awareness of Medical Transportation Services:** Educate residents about the availability of medical **transportation** services and their eligibility criteria.
* **Advocate for Mobile Screening Units:** Encourage the deployment of mobile mammography units to Wattsburg to improve access to screening services.

For individuals **moving to Wattsburg**, understanding these challenges is crucial. Careful planning, including securing reliable **transportation** and identifying healthcare providers in advance, is essential. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for a more in-depth assessment, and further research is recommended to ensure access to the necessary medical care.