16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 16748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 16.76 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP Code 16748)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is a complex one. For individuals residing in or contemplating a move to Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16748), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is paramount. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, explores the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment options, focusing on transportation considerations. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this rural community.

Shinglehouse, nestled in Potter County, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The area is characterized by vast distances, limited public transportation, and a reliance on personal vehicles. This reality significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as timely access to care is crucial for positive outcomes. The "score" here isn't a numerical value but rather a detailed examination of the factors influencing healthcare accessibility.

The primary concern for individuals in Shinglehouse is the distance to specialized medical facilities. The closest hospitals equipped for comprehensive breast cancer care are located in neighboring counties. Driving is the most common mode of transportation, and the journey often involves navigating winding rural roads.

The most direct route to larger hospitals typically involves traveling on **US Route 6** East. This highway, a major artery through northern Pennsylvania, provides access to cities like Coudersport and beyond. Depending on traffic and the specific destination, drive times can vary considerably.

For instance, the drive to UPMC Cole in Coudersport, a hospital with some diagnostic capabilities, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the starting point within Shinglehouse. However, this facility may not offer all specialized breast cancer treatments.

For more comprehensive care, patients often need to travel further. The drive to Olean General Hospital in Olean, New York, is roughly an hour, a journey that involves **US Route 44** North to **New York State Route 417** East. This drive time assumes normal traffic conditions and does not account for potential delays due to weather, which can be a significant factor in this region, particularly during winter months.

Another option is the drive to Bradford Regional Medical Center in Bradford, Pennsylvania. This journey, approximately 45-60 minutes, involves traveling on **US Route 44** South, then connecting to **Pennsylvania Route 6** West. Bradford offers a wider range of services, including some oncology treatments, but may still require referrals to larger facilities for specialized procedures.

Public transportation options in Shinglehouse are extremely limited. There is no readily available public bus service within the immediate area. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions or other limitations. The absence of a robust public transportation system significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for those reliant on alternative means of travel.

The absence of public transit highlights the critical importance of personal vehicles and alternative transportation solutions. Individuals moving to Shinglehouse must consider the necessity of owning a car or having access to reliable transportation for medical appointments and treatments. This is a significant financial and logistical consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some of the larger cities within driving distance of Shinglehouse. However, their availability in Shinglehouse itself is highly variable and often unreliable. The limited population density and geographic isolation make it challenging for ride-sharing companies to maintain a consistent presence. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not a feasible option for most residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Several companies operate in the region, offering both basic and advanced life support transportation. These services are particularly crucial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or require assistance during travel.

The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies depending on the specific plan and the nature of the transport required. Patients should thoroughly investigate their insurance coverage and explore all available financial assistance options to mitigate the financial burden.

When considering medical transport, it's crucial to research the specific companies operating in the area and assess their reliability, responsiveness, and the types of services they offer. Confirming their service area includes Shinglehouse is essential.

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create additional challenges. While medical transport services often provide accessible vehicles, the limited options and potential costs can be prohibitive. The Breast Cancer Score is further impacted by the lack of readily available ADA-compliant transportation.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (16748) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The primary challenges are the distances to specialized medical facilities, the absence of reliable public transportation, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of individual mobility and financial resources. Medical transport services offer a viable, albeit often costly, alternative.

For individuals considering a move to Shinglehouse, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to care is essential. This assessment should include a review of insurance coverage, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs associated with medical transport.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that changes based on individual circumstances, available resources, and the evolving healthcare landscape. Planning for healthcare access is a critical element of a successful relocation to Shinglehouse.

Moving to Shinglehouse requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The beauty of the area is undeniable, but the remoteness necessitates proactive planning. Understanding the transportation limitations and exploring all available options are crucial steps in ensuring timely access to breast cancer care. This proactive approach will help individuals navigate the healthcare system and maintain their health and well-being in their new community.