16635, Duncansville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16635, Duncansville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.10 percent of residents in 16635 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Nason Medical Center with a distance of 6.51 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16635 (Duncansville, PA)**

The prospect of relocating to a new community, especially when considering healthcare needs, necessitates a thorough understanding of access. For residents of Duncansville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16635), evaluating healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer treatment, requires careful consideration of transportation options. This analysis offers a "Breast Cancer Score," assessing the ease and efficiency of reaching critical medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

Duncansville, nestled in Blair County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary arteries influencing healthcare access are the heavily trafficked **Interstate 99 (I-99)** and the more local **US Route 22**. These highways, while offering speed, are subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Secondary roads like **State Route 764 (Frankstown Road)** and **State Route 36** provide alternative routes, but can be slower due to lower speed limits and more frequent stop signs. The ability to navigate these roads efficiently is paramount for timely healthcare access.

The primary destination for breast cancer care is likely to be UPMC Altoona Hospital, located approximately 10 miles from Duncansville. Driving via I-99 offers the quickest route, typically taking 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more. Alternative routes, such as taking Frankstown Road, might offer a more consistent travel time, though it will be slightly longer, around 25-30 minutes. This variability highlights the importance of considering traffic patterns when scheduling appointments.

Public transit, though available, presents challenges in Duncansville. The Altoona MetroMetro Transit Authority (AMTA) operates several bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are limited. Route 10, for example, serves the Duncansville area, offering a connection to downtown Altoona and potentially to UPMC Altoona Hospital. However, the schedule may not align perfectly with medical appointment times, and the journey could take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, including potential transfer times. The AMTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another transportation option. Availability in the Duncansville area is generally good, but prices can fluctuate based on demand. A ride to UPMC Altoona Hospital could cost between $15 and $30, depending on the time of day and surge pricing. This option offers convenience, but the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and local private providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as insurance coverage.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Duncansville (16635) considers these factors. The score is not a single number but a holistic assessment. The proximity to UPMC Altoona Hospital is a positive factor, but the reliance on highways and the limitations of public transit introduce complexities. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility, but the costs and pre-booking requirements must be weighed.

For individuals considering moving to Duncansville, understanding these transportation nuances is crucial. The ability to drive is a significant advantage, given the relatively short distances to medical facilities. However, those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully assess the feasibility of these options. The AMTA's ADA-accessible buses are a critical component of healthcare access for this demographic.

The Breast Cancer Score also takes into account the availability of support services. The American Cancer Society and other organizations offer transportation assistance programs for patients undergoing treatment. These programs can help mitigate the financial burden of transportation and ensure that patients can attend their appointments.

The overall score reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While UPMC Altoona Hospital is relatively close, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide viable alternatives, but their costs and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about the lived experience of patients. It reflects the importance of timely access to care, the need for affordable transportation options, and the availability of support services. For individuals considering moving to Duncansville, this analysis provides a foundation for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The future of healthcare access in Duncansville could be enhanced by improvements to public transit, such as increased frequency and expanded routes. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could also improve patient access. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Duncansville have equitable access to the healthcare they need, when they need it. This includes easy transportation to and from the location of treatment.