16746, Roulette, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16746, Roulette, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.06 percent of residents in 16746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 8.97 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roulette, PA (ZIP Code 16746)

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a journey, and for residents of Roulette, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16746), that journey is often intertwined with the challenges of rural transportation. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for this community, considering factors crucial to healthcare access, particularly concerning the timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The score reflects the ease with which individuals can access essential services, from initial screenings to specialized treatments, highlighting the existing transportation infrastructure and potential barriers. Moving to Roulette requires careful consideration of these factors.

Roulette, a small community nestled in Potter County, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rural living. However, its geographical isolation significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in larger towns and cities, often requiring significant travel. The Breast Cancer Score for 16746, therefore, is heavily influenced by the available transportation options and the time it takes to reach these crucial healthcare resources.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highways**

The primary mode of transportation in Roulette is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The roads, though scenic, can present challenges, particularly during inclement weather. Driving times to healthcare facilities are critical. The nearest hospital with a dedicated cancer center is UPMC Cole in Coudersport, approximately 20 miles away. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The primary route is via **PA-44 South**, a well-maintained but winding road that traverses the rolling hills of Potter County.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities like Bradford, PA, or even further afield to Erie, PA. Bradford, home to Bradford Regional Medical Center, is roughly 45 miles away, translating to a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The journey involves navigating **US-6 West** and then **PA-446 North**. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience heavier traffic during peak hours.

Erie, a major regional hub with advanced cancer treatment centers, is a significantly longer journey, approximately 100 miles. This drive, taking roughly 2 hours, necessitates traversing **PA-44 South** to **US-6 West**, and then connecting to **I-86 West**. This extended travel time can be a considerable burden, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing debilitating symptoms. The condition of the highways and roads, particularly during winter, can further complicate these journeys.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Roulette are extremely limited. Potter County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. There is no fixed-route bus service within the immediate vicinity of Roulette. The availability of public transit significantly affects the Breast Cancer Score, as it limits the options for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

While the Potter County Human Services offers a demand-response transportation service, its availability and suitability for medical appointments require careful consideration. This service, often requiring advance booking, may not always be readily available for urgent appointments or last-minute changes. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available, but the overall service frequency and coverage are limited.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Roulette. The sparse population density and geographical isolation make it economically unviable for these services to operate. This lack of ride-share options significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it eliminates a potentially convenient and flexible transportation alternative.

Medical transportation services, however, do exist. Several companies specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments, including those related to cancer treatment. These services typically involve pre-arranged rides, often door-to-door, and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services often require advance booking, and the availability of vehicles can vary depending on the demand. The reliability and responsiveness of these services are crucial for ensuring timely access to appointments. The Breast Cancer Score is impacted by the availability, cost, and reliability of these medical transport options.

**The Impact on the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for Roulette, PA (16746) reflects the challenges inherent in accessing healthcare in a rural setting. The score is significantly impacted by the long travel distances to specialized care, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transportation services.

Early detection and timely treatment are crucial for breast cancer outcomes. The extended travel times and limited transportation options can delay access to screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment, potentially impacting the prognosis and quality of life for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score for Roulette, therefore, highlights the need for:

* **Increased awareness** of the importance of early detection and regular screenings.
* **Advocacy for improved transportation options**, including potentially subsidized medical transportation services or expanded public transit.
* **Exploring telehealth opportunities** to provide consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources closer to home.
* **Supporting local initiatives** that promote breast cancer awareness and provide resources for patients and their families.

Moving to Roulette requires careful consideration of these factors. The community's resilience and the dedication of healthcare providers are vital in mitigating the challenges of rural healthcare access. While the Breast Cancer Score may reflect existing limitations, ongoing efforts to improve transportation, expand access to care, and foster community support can significantly improve outcomes for individuals facing this challenging disease. The journey to conquer breast cancer is a collective one, and in Roulette, it necessitates a concerted effort to bridge the geographical gaps and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need.