17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.43 percent of residents in 17255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 17.33 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Shade Gap, PA (ZIP Code 17255)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. For residents of Shade Gap, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17255), the path to essential screenings, diagnosis, and treatment is significantly shaped by the availability of transportation. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the transportation landscape, offering a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Shade Gap. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly when facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.

Shade Gap, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, necessitates a heavy reliance on personal vehicles. This reality directly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it influences the ease and speed with which residents can access vital healthcare services. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services, providing a holistic view of healthcare access.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Access**

For residents of Shade Gap, the most common route to healthcare involves navigating the local roadways. The primary artery for travel is **Pennsylvania Route 75**, a two-lane highway that winds through the scenic countryside. Accessing larger medical centers often requires venturing onto **U.S. Route 22**, a major east-west thoroughfare. The drive times to these facilities are pivotal in the Breast Cancer Score.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer services is **UPMC Altoona Hospital**, located approximately 50 miles east of Shade Gap. Driving to Altoona typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive, primarily on Route 75 and Route 22, can be demanding, especially for individuals undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or mobility limitations.

Another option is **Geisinger Lewistown Hospital**, approximately 40 miles south. The drive, primarily on Route 75 and Route 322, takes about an hour. While closer than Altoona, it still requires a significant time commitment. These drive times are a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score, as they directly impact the timeliness of appointments, the frequency of visits, and the overall burden on patients and their families.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Shade Gap are extremely limited. The **Huntingdon County Transit Authority (HCTA)** provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are geared toward essential services and do not offer frequent or direct routes to major medical facilities. The HCTA operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance.

This demand-response system presents challenges for breast cancer patients who may need to schedule appointments, undergo treatments, or attend follow-up visits. The lack of fixed routes and limited service hours can create significant barriers to healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score reflects this reality, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions. The HCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, a critical feature for patients with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Shade Gap. The Breast Cancer Score takes this into account, acknowledging that ride-sharing may not be a reliable option for all residents, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like **CareRide** and **First Transit** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for breast cancer patients who need assistance with transportation to and from appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services are critical considerations in the Breast Cancer Score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score is not a single number but a multifaceted evaluation. It weighs the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and travel time to hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, routes, and accessibility of public transportation.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of NEMT services.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for patients with disabilities.

The Breast Cancer Score is designed to be a dynamic tool, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape. As transportation options change, the score will be updated to provide the most accurate assessment of healthcare access. This score is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Shade Gap, as it provides a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access.

**Moving to Shade Gap: A Considered Choice**

For individuals considering moving to Shade Gap, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score can help inform this decision, highlighting the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The decision to move to Shade Gap should be made with a full understanding of the healthcare access implications. Careful consideration of transportation needs, financial resources, and personal circumstances is essential. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable resource, providing a framework for evaluating the healthcare access environment and making informed decisions.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Choices**

The Breast Cancer Score for Shade Gap (ZIP code 17255) underscores the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limited transportation options present challenges for those seeking breast cancer care. By understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool designed to empower individuals, providing them with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Shade Gap.