16730, East Smethport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16730, East Smethport, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 16730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 22.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Smethport (ZIP Code 16730)

East Smethport, Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the rolling hills of McKean County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering access to healthcare, specifically for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score” for the region, examines the complexities of transportation, a critical component of healthcare access, for residents of ZIP code 16730. Understanding these nuances is vital for anyone considering moving to East Smethport or for current residents navigating their healthcare journey.

The primary concern for residents is the limited availability of specialized medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel for most breast cancer-related healthcare services. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, making the quality of the local road network a primary factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

The primary artery for travel is Pennsylvania Route 46, which bisects East Smethport. This road provides access to the larger towns and cities where comprehensive breast cancer care is available. Driving east on Route 46 connects to Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. Heading west on Route 6 leads to Kane, approximately a 20-minute drive. Kane houses UPMC Kane, a hospital that provides some diagnostic services. However, for advanced treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, or specialized chemotherapy, patients typically need to travel further.

Driving east on Route 6 leads to Bradford, a roughly 30-minute drive. Bradford is home to Bradford Regional Medical Center, offering a wider range of healthcare services, including some cancer care. However, even in Bradford, the scope of cancer care might not be as comprehensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The drive along Route 6 is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety, directly affecting healthcare access.

The next tier of healthcare access involves travel to larger cities like Olean, New York, or Erie, Pennsylvania. Olean, approximately an hour's drive north via Route 417, offers additional medical facilities, including specialized cancer centers. Erie, a larger city with a more comprehensive healthcare infrastructure, is a drive of about two hours southwest, primarily via Route 6 and Interstate 86. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, considering potential delays and the patient's physical condition.

Public transportation options in East Smethport are extremely limited, significantly impacting the Breast Cancer Score. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve the community. This lack of public transit presents a major barrier for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive due to medical reasons, or have limited mobility. The absence of public transportation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities, hindering their ability to access timely healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is sporadic and often unreliable, especially in rural areas like East Smethport. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable solution for consistent transportation needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private medical transport providers. These services typically require pre-booking and can be expensive, but they offer a dedicated and often more comfortable mode of transportation for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and the response time may vary depending on demand and location.

The Breast Cancer Score is further influenced by the availability of support services within the community. Support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care. The availability of these services locally can ease the burden of travel and provide crucial emotional and practical support.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for East Smethport, ZIP code 16730, reflects the challenges posed by limited access to specialized healthcare facilities and the reliance on personal transportation. The lack of public transit and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their cost and limited availability can be barriers for some.

For individuals considering moving to East Smethport, understanding the transportation challenges is crucial. Careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer care, is essential. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical facilities, assess their transportation options, and consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's capacity to support its residents in their healthcare journeys. Addressing the transportation limitations through initiatives such as exploring the feasibility of a local shuttle service, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or expanding medical transportation services can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance healthcare access for all residents of East Smethport.