17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.40 percent of residents in 17253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 18.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saltillo, PA (ZIP Code 17253)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding not only exceptional medical care but also a supportive environment that eases the burden of treatment. For residents of Saltillo, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17253), this journey necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly the intricacies of transportation. This write-up serves as a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ assessment, evaluating the challenges and opportunities related to accessing breast cancer care in this rural community. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view for those navigating this critical healthcare landscape.

Saltillo, nestled within the rolling hills of Huntingdon County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its relative isolation, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, can complicate access to specialized medical services. The availability and efficiency of transportation become paramount, especially for individuals facing frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. A high ‘Breast Cancer Score’ in this context reflects ease of access, while a lower score indicates significant barriers.

The primary mode of transportation for most Saltillo residents is the personal vehicle. The area is served by a network of roads, including Pennsylvania Route 26, which acts as a vital artery connecting Saltillo to larger towns and cities. Route 26 provides access to Huntingdon, approximately 20 miles away, where some basic medical services are available. Further afield, the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 76) offers a faster route to major medical centers in Harrisburg and Philadelphia.

Drive times are a crucial factor. To reach the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, patients in Saltillo face significant travel times. The drive to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Altoona, via Route 26 and Interstate 99, can take around an hour, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating winding roads and potentially encountering adverse weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Harrisburg, home to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, is approximately a 2-hour drive via the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Philadelphia, with its renowned medical institutions, is a 3- to 4-hour drive, making it a less viable option for frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Saltillo are limited. The Huntingdon County Transit Authority (HCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are primarily geared towards local travel and do not directly serve major medical centers. Furthermore, the HCTA’s service frequency may not align with the demanding schedules of cancer treatment. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. The HCTA strives to provide accessible services, but the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Huntingdon County area, but their presence in Saltillo is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments could prove unreliable and potentially expensive. The cost of these services, particularly for longer distances to cancer centers, can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. However, availability and coverage areas can vary, and it is essential to confirm that the service provider covers the specific cancer center and accepts the patient's insurance. These services may be a lifeline for those unable to drive or lacking access to other forms of transportation.

For individuals considering moving to Saltillo, the availability of healthcare access should be a key factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents, particularly those with a history of cancer or other serious medical conditions, must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and plan accordingly. This includes assessing the proximity of cancer centers, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Saltillo, PA (ZIP code 17253) would likely be moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation infrastructure and distance to specialized medical care pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. However, the presence of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for some patients.

Ultimately, the ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of individuals facing a serious illness. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to healthcare access, ensuring that all residents of Saltillo, regardless of their circumstances, can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The local community and healthcare providers could explore strategies to improve the ‘Breast Cancer Score’, such as advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing partnerships, and supporting the availability of affordable medical transport services.