16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 16725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 12.71 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16725

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a complex one. It's not just about the medical expertise available, but also the ease with which one can access it. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 16725, Custer City, Pennsylvania, a rural community where the ability to navigate the system directly impacts health outcomes. We’ll explore the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to provide a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” reflecting the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care.

The primary concern for residents of Custer City is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The nearest hospitals equipped for comprehensive breast cancer care are in Bradford and Olean, New York. The most direct route to Bradford Regional Medical Center, a crucial healthcare hub, involves driving east on **Pennsylvania Route 44 (PA-44)**, then merging onto **U.S. Route 219 (US-219)**. The drive, under ideal conditions, is approximately 20 miles and takes about 30 minutes. This time can fluctuate drastically depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters.

Traveling to Olean General Hospital in Olean, New York, involves a more circuitous route. One would typically head north on **US-219**, crossing the state line, and then navigating through the city. This journey is roughly 35 miles and can take around 45 minutes to an hour, again contingent on external factors. These drive times, while seemingly manageable, become significant barriers when considering the need for frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options in 16725 are limited, which drastically affects healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. There is no dedicated public transit system serving Custer City. The closest semblance of public transportation is the Bradford Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA). However, BARTA primarily serves the city of Bradford, and its routes do not extend into Custer City. This leaves residents reliant on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation for healthcare access.

The absence of robust public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals with mobility limitations, the elderly, or those who cannot afford a car. The lack of accessibility also impacts individuals who may be undergoing treatment and unable to drive. This deficiency highlights a critical need for alternative solutions to bridge the gap in healthcare access for the residents of Custer City.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be questionable in a rural setting. The availability of drivers is often limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services cost-prohibitive. Furthermore, the extended travel times to medical facilities in Bradford or Olean could result in substantial ride-share fares, further exacerbating the financial burden associated with breast cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services offer a dedicated solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like AmeriFleet and Medical Transportation Services specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments. The cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier for low-income individuals, potentially delaying or preventing necessary care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 16725, therefore, is not simply a measure of medical expertise, but a reflection of the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. The score must consider the drive times to the nearest comprehensive care centers, the limitations of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation.

For those considering moving to Custer City, or for current residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor. The reliance on personal vehicles places a significant burden on individuals and families. The lack of accessible public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transportation create a complex and potentially stressful situation during an already challenging time.

The community needs to explore solutions to improve healthcare access. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, potentially partnering with BARTA to extend routes into Custer City. The town could explore subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transportation services to reduce costs for patients. Community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could also provide valuable support.

Furthermore, the local healthcare providers should be encouraged to offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel. The implementation of these strategies would improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for 16725, making healthcare more accessible and manageable for residents facing this serious illness.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 16725 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. The current transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges for those seeking breast cancer care. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing solutions, and community-based support programs is essential to improve the health outcomes and quality of life for the residents of Custer City. The ability to navigate the transportation system is a critical component of the journey to recovery, and the community must work together to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.