16732, Gifford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16732, Gifford, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.67 percent of residents in 16732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 17.65 miles from the area.

The shadow of breast cancer, a reality for countless women, casts a long reach. Understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly the transportation options available, is critical. This assessment, a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for residents of ZIP Code 16732, focuses on the practicalities of getting to and from vital medical appointments, a factor that can significantly impact treatment outcomes and overall well-being. We’ll explore the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access within the context of the ZIP Code, offering insights for those already residing here, or considering moving to Gifford.

The geography of 16732, encompassing the borough of Gifford and surrounding areas, presents a unique set of challenges. The region is characterized by its rural nature, which directly impacts transportation options. This impacts healthcare access. Public transit is limited, and the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. The absence of robust public transportation can disproportionately affect individuals with mobility limitations, those without vehicles, or those facing financial constraints.

The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities from Gifford is by car. The main artery for travel is Pennsylvania Route 59. This road, a two-lane highway, winds its way through the forested landscape, connecting Gifford to larger towns and cities where medical services are concentrated. The drive to Kane, the nearest town with a hospital, UPMC Kane, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive becomes longer during inclement weather, a common occurrence in the region.

Further afield, access to more specialized care necessitates longer journeys. For instance, reaching the city of Bradford, home to Bradford Regional Medical Center, involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via Pennsylvania Route 346. This route, also a two-lane highway, offers a more direct connection, but still demands careful driving and awareness of potential delays. These longer travel times can add considerable stress and fatigue, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

Considering these drive times is crucial for understanding the ‘Breast Cancer Score’. The longer the commute, the greater the potential for logistical challenges. These challenges include arranging transportation, securing time off work, and managing the physical toll of travel. The cumulative effect can significantly impact a patient’s ability to adhere to their treatment plan.

Public transportation options are limited in 16732. The local bus system, if it exists, may have restricted routes and schedules, making it an impractical option for many patients. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor. Patients with mobility limitations require accessible transportation to ensure they can attend their appointments. The absence of such features can create a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have a presence in the area, but their availability can be unpredictable, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially those with limited financial resources. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, could be a viable option. However, their availability and cost must be carefully assessed.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ must also consider the presence of support services within the community. Are there organizations that offer transportation assistance to patients? Are there volunteer driver programs? These resources can play a vital role in mitigating the transportation challenges faced by patients.

The availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity of 16732 is another crucial factor. The presence of primary care physicians, oncologists, and other specialists can significantly impact the convenience of accessing care. The closer the proximity of these providers, the less the reliance on transportation.

When considering moving to Gifford, prospective residents should carefully assess the transportation options available and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is not just about drive times. It’s about understanding the entire ecosystem of healthcare access, including public transit, ride-sharing, medical transportation, and support services.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be revisited regularly. Changes in transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare providers, and the emergence of new support services can all impact the score.

The impact of long commutes extends beyond the patient. Family members and caregivers often bear the brunt of the transportation burden. They may have to take time off work to drive patients to appointments, adding to their own stress and financial strain. The availability of support services, such as respite care, can help alleviate this burden.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ also needs to consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be a valuable tool for patients in rural areas. It can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to access care. The availability of reliable internet access is crucial for telehealth to be effective.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for 16732, in this context, would likely be moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The drive times to healthcare facilities, while not excessively long, can still pose logistical difficulties. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services and the potential cost of medical transportation could be barriers for some patients. The presence of support services and telehealth options could improve the score.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is more than just a numerical rating. It’s a call to action. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in 16732. This includes advocating for better public transportation, supporting volunteer driver programs, and promoting the use of telehealth. It also means ensuring that all healthcare facilities are ADA-accessible.

The goal is to create a community where all residents, regardless of their location or financial circumstances, have equal access to the healthcare they need. By understanding the transportation landscape and the resources available, we can work towards a future where the journey to healthcare is as seamless and stress-free as possible. This is particularly crucial for those battling breast cancer.