16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.13 percent of residents in 16740 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 9.37 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Jewett (ZIP Code 16740)

Considering a move to the charming town of Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16740), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services. We'll delve into the nuances of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluate their impact on healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial factors influencing the overall experience.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a scientific metric but a practical guide, offering a realistic perspective on healthcare accessibility. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities for residents of Mount Jewett, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local landscape, focusing on the practicalities of getting to appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing follow-up care. This is especially important for those with pre-existing conditions or those seeking preventative care, such as breast cancer screening.

**The Score:** We'll assign a score ranging from 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 indicating the most accessible. The score will be based on the overall availability and efficiency of transportation options.

**Driving: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Mount Jewett, the personal vehicle is often the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The town's location in rural McKean County dictates this reality. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in Bradford, approximately 25 miles away. This journey is primarily via **US Route 6**, a scenic but sometimes slow-moving highway. Expect a drive time of around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Further afield, the city of Olean, New York, offers additional medical options, including specialized breast cancer care. This trip involves traveling approximately 40 miles, primarily via **US Route 6** and **NY Route 17**, now known as **I-86**. Drive times to Olean range from 50 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, again contingent on traffic.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. The time commitment can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or treatments. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter, can also impact travel times and safety. Therefore, a reliable vehicle and a willingness to drive are essential for healthcare access in Mount Jewett.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Mount Jewett are extremely limited. McKean County operates a demand-response public transit system, offering door-to-door service. However, this service is primarily designed for essential trips, such as medical appointments and grocery shopping. The availability of this service is not as frequent as in larger cities.

The efficiency of public transit is also limited by its nature. The need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for delays due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs can impact healthcare access. While the county's transit system is ADA-accessible, the limited schedule and the need for pre-planning make it a less-than-ideal option for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are often unavailable in rural areas like Mount Jewett. This lack of access significantly impacts healthcare access for those who do not drive or do not have access to a vehicle. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is generally not a viable option.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, can be a valuable resource. These services typically cater to patients with mobility issues or those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. The availability of these services can be a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities or those recovering from medical procedures.

**Breast Cancer Score for Mount Jewett: A 2.5**

Considering the factors discussed, Mount Jewett receives a "Breast Cancer Score" of 2.5. This score reflects the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the lack of readily available ride-sharing services. While healthcare facilities are within reasonable driving distance, the dependence on personal transportation and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic contribute to the score.

**Recommendations for Improved Healthcare Access**

* **Invest in a reliable vehicle:** A dependable car is critical for navigating the area and accessing healthcare.
* **Explore medical transportation options:** Research local medical transport providers and understand their services and costs.
* **Utilize the county's public transit:** Familiarize yourself with the demand-response transit system and its scheduling procedures.
* **Plan appointments strategically:** Consider scheduling appointments during off-peak hours to minimize travel time.
* **Consider telemedicine:** Explore telehealth options for routine check-ups and consultations to reduce the need for travel.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support efforts to expand and improve public transportation services in the region.
* **Network and build community:** Connect with other residents and share transportation resources when possible.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Moving to Mount Jewett requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful planning and resourcefulness. Understanding the limitations and exploring available resources can help residents navigate the healthcare landscape effectively.

The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a practical framework for evaluating healthcare access, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and community awareness. By acknowledging the challenges and leveraging available resources, residents can ensure that their healthcare needs are met, even in a rural setting. The focus should be on proactive planning, utilizing available services, and advocating for improved access to healthcare for all residents of Mount Jewett. The journey to healthcare access in Mount Jewett requires careful consideration and a willingness to adapt to the unique transportation landscape. This includes exploring every option, from driving the **US Route 6** to utilizing medical transport services, to ensure access to vital healthcare services.