16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.86 percent of residents in 16731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 22.51 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Eldred, PA (ZIP Code 16731)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates readily available and reliable **transportation**, a crucial element that significantly impacts a patient's **healthcare access** and overall well-being. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, examines the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding Eldred, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16731), offering prospective residents or those **moving to Eldred** a realistic view of their options.

Eldred, nestled in the heart of McKean County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to limited **transportation** infrastructure. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are located in larger towns, requiring travel. This analysis considers the key **transportation** factors impacting a patient’s ability to receive timely and consistent care, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

The primary artery connecting Eldred to the outside world is **Pennsylvania Route 446**, a winding two-lane road that snakes through the Allegheny National Forest. Driving to the closest hospitals with oncology services in Bradford, PA, a town approximately 20 miles away, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route, while manageable, can become treacherous during winter months, potentially delaying or canceling appointments. **Route 446** then connects to **U.S. Route 6**, which provides access to other regional healthcare hubs.

For more specialized care, patients might need to travel further. For example, a trip to Olean General Hospital in Olean, New York, about 35 miles away, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via **Route 446** and then **Interstate 86**. The drive to UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA, a more comprehensive cancer center, is a significantly longer journey, exceeding two hours and involving travel on **Route 446**, **U.S. Route 6**, and **Interstate 86** before connecting to **Interstate 79**.

Public **transportation** options in Eldred and the surrounding areas are limited. The McKean County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily for local travel and errands, not specialized medical appointments. While the MCTA might offer a route connecting Eldred to Bradford, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers make it a less-than-ideal option for cancer patients. Information about ADA accessibility of MCTA vehicles is available, but the limited service area means that **healthcare access** is severely restricted.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is sporadic, particularly in rural areas like Eldred. Reliability is a major concern. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-evening treatments, can be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation. Patients should not rely on ride-sharing as their primary **transportation** method.

Medical **transportation** services offer a dedicated solution for patients needing assistance. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), providing door-to-door service for appointments. These services are often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, making them a viable option for many patients. Companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare operate in the region, providing scheduled rides to medical facilities. However, it's essential to book these services well in advance, as demand can be high.

The Breast Cancer Score for Eldred, PA, reflects the challenges of accessing **healthcare access**. The score is based on a combination of factors, including drive times, public **transportation** availability, ride-share reliability, and medical transport options. The score also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, which can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care.

The score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving **transportation** infrastructure and the availability of healthcare resources. The score should be used as a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care in Eldred, PA.

For individuals **moving to Eldred**, or those already residing there, proactive planning is crucial. Establishing a reliable **transportation** plan is paramount. This might involve securing a personal vehicle, identifying and pre-booking medical transport services, and exploring the potential for carpooling with other patients.

Furthermore, residents should familiarize themselves with the local healthcare system, including the availability of patient navigators and support groups. These resources can provide invaluable assistance in coordinating appointments, managing treatment schedules, and accessing financial assistance programs.

The challenges of accessing breast cancer care in a rural setting like Eldred underscore the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family can play a vital role in providing **transportation** assistance, offering emotional support, and helping patients navigate the complexities of their treatment.

Ultimately, a high Breast Cancer Score indicates better **healthcare access** and a greater likelihood of positive outcomes. In Eldred, PA, the score is moderate, reflecting the challenges of rural living. While the **transportation** options are limited, with careful planning and a proactive approach, patients can successfully navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they need. This requires a multifaceted approach, combining personal responsibility with community support and the utilization of available resources. The journey to recovery is challenging, but with a solid plan, the path can be made smoother.