17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.42 percent of residents in 17760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 17760

The tranquil embrace of North Bend, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17760 ZIP code, offers a serene backdrop for life. Yet, the very essence of this rural haven presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing essential healthcare services, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of breast cancer care and formulating a "Breast Cancer Score" for the region. This score serves as a crucial metric for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to North Bend, and policymakers alike, highlighting the realities of healthcare access.

The journey to healthcare in 17760 is often measured in miles and minutes, demanding careful consideration of transportation options. The primary arteries for vehicular movement are Route 120, Route 6, and a network of local roads. Route 120, the main thoroughfare, provides a direct, albeit winding, passage to Lock Haven and Williamsport, cities that house the closest comprehensive medical facilities. Route 6, while offering a scenic alternative, adds significant travel time, especially when navigating the curves and elevation changes characteristic of the region. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further complicate travel, underscoring the importance of reliable transportation.

Drive times to key healthcare providers are a critical component of our score. UPMC Susquehanna, located in Williamsport, is a primary destination for specialized breast cancer care. A drive from North Bend to Williamsport, primarily via Route 120, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey necessitates careful planning, especially for regular appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The distance alone presents a significant hurdle, potentially impacting patient fatigue and overall quality of life.

Public transportation options in 17760 are extremely limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit, but service to North Bend is virtually non-existent. There are no direct routes, and the limited routes available in the surrounding areas do not offer any ADA features, making this option unsuitable for many individuals with mobility issues. The absence of robust public transit significantly restricts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the region, but their availability is inconsistent, especially in rural areas. While these services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, their reliability and cost are significant factors. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, coupled with potential surge pricing, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access. Medical transport services, like Care Ride, are available, but they often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans, creating a financial burden for some patients.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 17760 will integrate these factors. It will consider drive times, the availability of public transportation, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport services. It will also factor in the proximity of essential services like pharmacies and support groups. The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to breast cancer care. This score will serve as a valuable tool for residents, potential newcomers, and policymakers seeking to improve healthcare access in the region.

The score will also consider the availability of support services. Access to breast cancer support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs is crucial for patients. The proximity of these services, or the ease with which they can be accessed, will be factored into the overall score. The absence of these essential resources would significantly impact the score, highlighting the need for expanded services within the community.

The financial implications of transportation are another crucial consideration. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transport can quickly accumulate, adding a significant financial burden to patients already facing the costs of treatment. This financial strain can exacerbate stress and anxiety, potentially impacting treatment adherence and overall well-being. The score will therefore factor in the potential financial burden of transportation costs.

Considering the limited transportation options and the geographical challenges, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 17760 is likely to be lower than scores for more urban areas. This underscores the need for innovative solutions to improve healthcare access. Potential solutions include advocating for expanded public transit options, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation, and promoting the use of telemedicine for consultations and follow-up appointments.

The score will also highlight the importance of community support. The formation of local support networks, the availability of volunteer drivers, and the establishment of carpooling programs can significantly improve healthcare access. The community's willingness to support its residents facing breast cancer is a crucial factor in mitigating the challenges posed by transportation limitations.

Furthermore, the score will emphasize the need for proactive healthcare planning. Individuals considering moving to North Bend or any rural area should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the availability of transportation options. They should research the location of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit or ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number; it is a call to action. It highlights the challenges faced by residents of 17760 in accessing essential healthcare services and provides a framework for improvement. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, we can work towards creating a more equitable and supportive environment for individuals facing breast cancer. This score is a dynamic tool that will be updated regularly to reflect changes in transportation options, healthcare services, and community support. It will be a valuable resource for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers alike, guiding efforts to improve healthcare access and ensure that individuals in 17760 receive the care they need.