16502, Erie, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16502, Erie, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.12 percent of residents in 16502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 0.90 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16502**

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. Beyond the emotional and physical toll, navigating transportation to appointments, treatments, and support can be a significant challenge. This analysis, tailored to ZIP code 16502 in Erie, Pennsylvania, aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" – a snapshot of transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport, all crucial factors in assessing healthcare access. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Erie or seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the fundamental need for reliable **transportation**. Breast cancer treatment often involves frequent visits, demanding a consistent and dependable means of getting to and from healthcare facilities. The availability of various transportation options can dramatically impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan, affecting their overall well-being and prognosis.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For those with access to a personal vehicle, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in 16502 are the major roadways. The primary hub for cancer care in Erie is UPMC Hamot, located at 201 State Street. From various points within 16502, the journey to UPMC Hamot involves navigating a network of streets and highways.

Residents in the eastern portion of 16502, particularly those near East 38th Street, can anticipate a drive primarily along East 38th Street and then a turn onto Peach Street, which leads directly to downtown and State Street. The drive time is typically 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Those residing in the western reaches of 16502, near West 12th Street, may find themselves using West 12th Street, connecting to Peach Street, or potentially opting for West 26th Street, which offers a more direct route to State Street. Drive times from this area range from 15-20 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow.

The presence of Interstate 90 (I-90) provides an additional layer of complexity. While not directly traversing 16502, its proximity can influence traffic patterns on connecting roads. The use of I-90 to reach Erie from surrounding areas can increase traffic volume on Peach Street and other arterial roads, potentially extending drive times during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation within the city, but its coverage and frequency are limited, especially for residents in certain areas of 16502. The primary bus routes serving the area include routes 1, 2, 3, and 15.

Route 1, traveling along West 12th Street, and Route 2, along East 26th Street, offer access to Peach Street and downtown, where UPMC Hamot is located. Route 3, running along East 38th Street, provides another avenue to Peach Street. Route 15, which travels along West 26th Street, also offers a connection to downtown.

However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern. Buses typically operate on a schedule, with less frequent service during evenings and weekends. This can pose challenges for patients needing to attend appointments outside of regular business hours or requiring more flexible schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. EMTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the physical limitations of bus travel, such as the need to navigate to bus stops and potential delays, can still present challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative **transportation** option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services are readily available in Erie and can be booked through smartphone applications.

The advantage of ride-share is its flexibility. Patients can request a ride at any time and from any location within the service area. However, the cost of ride-share can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase expenses.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like Medstar or other local providers, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges.

Medical transport is often covered by insurance, making it a more affordable option than ride-share for some patients. However, availability can be limited, and advance booking is usually required. The need to schedule rides in advance can be a challenge for patients with unpredictable treatment schedules.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 16502 reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to UPMC Hamot are generally manageable for those with personal vehicles, the reliance on Peach Street and other arterial roads makes them susceptible to traffic congestion.

Public transit, while offering an alternative, presents limitations in terms of frequency and coverage. Ride-share services provide flexibility but can be costly. Medical transport offers a more specialized and potentially more affordable option, but its availability and scheduling requirements must be considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Erie** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, or those already residing in 16502, understanding these **healthcare access** challenges is crucial. Careful consideration of **transportation** options, financial resources, and personal mobility needs is essential for navigating the healthcare system effectively. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for this assessment, highlighting the complexities and challenges of accessing care in this specific ZIP code. It is a reminder that the journey to healthcare is not just about medical treatment; it is also about ensuring patients can reliably and affordably get to where they need to be.