16503, Erie, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16503, Erie, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 16503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16503

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the medical expertise available, but also the ease and accessibility of getting there. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of ZIP code 16503 in Erie, Pennsylvania, focusing on the critical element of transportation. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for ensuring timely appointments, treatments, and support services. This score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare access for potential and current residents.

For those considering moving to Erie, Pennsylvania, particularly to the 16503 ZIP code, this information is invaluable. It can help you make informed decisions about where to live and how to manage your healthcare needs. The goal is to provide a clear, comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities that exist, ultimately impacting the overall quality of life for those battling breast cancer.

The heart of the matter lies in the accessibility of key healthcare facilities. In Erie, the primary providers for breast cancer care include UPMC Hamot, Saint Vincent Hospital, and the Regional Cancer Center. The distance and ease of travel to these locations from within 16503 are crucial factors in our assessment.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents its own set of variables. From the center of 16503, a drive to UPMC Hamot, located at 201 State Street, typically involves navigating city streets. The primary route involves taking West 26th Street, which merges onto State Street. Drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, but generally, a trip to UPMC Hamot should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

Saint Vincent Hospital, situated at 2320 Myrtle Street, is also within reasonable driving distance. The most direct route involves taking West 26th Street to Myrtle Street. The drive time is comparable to that of UPMC Hamot, usually around 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

The Regional Cancer Center, often a central hub for cancer treatments, is located at 2500 West 12th Street. The drive from 16503 involves taking West 26th Street to West 12th Street. This route, while straightforward, may take slightly longer, approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

These drive times, while generally favorable, can be impacted by rush hour congestion or unexpected road closures. The availability of ample parking at these facilities is another consideration, as is the physical stamina required to walk from parking areas to the clinic entrances, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

Public transportation offers an alternative for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides bus service throughout the city. Several routes serve the 16503 area, with varying degrees of proximity to healthcare facilities.

The EMTA Route 1, a key route, runs along West 26th Street, offering convenient access to several points within the 16503 ZIP code. This route connects to downtown Erie, providing access to UPMC Hamot. Route 1 also intersects with other routes, potentially allowing for transfers to reach Saint Vincent Hospital or the Regional Cancer Center.

Route 15, another important route, travels along West 12th Street, providing direct access to the Regional Cancer Center. The frequency of these routes, however, is a crucial factor. During peak hours, buses run more frequently, while off-peak service may be less frequent, potentially impacting the overall travel time and convenience.

The EMTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a critical feature for breast cancer patients who may experience mobility challenges due to treatment side effects or physical limitations. The availability of these accessible buses is a positive factor in the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. The availability of these services in Erie is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact affordability. For patients needing regular appointments, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate.

Medical transport services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable resource. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several companies operate in Erie, offering door-to-door service and specialized vehicles. While these services provide a critical lifeline for some, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 16503, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are generally favorable, offering relatively quick access. Public transportation options exist, though frequency and transfer times can be a challenge. Ride-sharing services provide an alternative, while medical transport services cater to specific needs.

The overall score reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The availability of multiple transportation options is a positive factor, but the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport can create barriers for some patients. For those considering moving to Erie, Pennsylvania, the 16503 ZIP code offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but careful consideration of individual transportation needs is essential.