15033, Donora, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15033, Donora, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.70 percent of residents in 15033 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 2.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Donora, PA (ZIP Code 15033)

Moving to a new town, especially when considering healthcare access, requires a thorough understanding of local resources. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for Donora, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15033), focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing crucial lung cancer care. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty residents face in their journey to potentially life-saving appointments.

Donora, nestled in the Monongahela Valley, presents unique transportation challenges. The town's geography, carved by the Monongahela River, and its history of industrial activity, influence the availability and efficiency of transportation options. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering a move to this area, particularly individuals with or at risk of lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, providing insight into the complexities of healthcare access. It acknowledges that effective healthcare access extends beyond the availability of medical facilities; it encompasses the ability to reach those facilities reliably and efficiently.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Donora is the personal vehicle. The town is served by several key roadways. Route 837, a major artery, runs parallel to the Monongahela River, connecting Donora to neighboring communities. Route 88, a more inland route, provides another north-south connection. Interstate 70, a vital east-west thoroughfare, is accessible via several interchanges, offering connections to Pittsburgh and other major cities.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The closest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer care, including specialized pulmonology and oncology services, are located outside of Donora. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, both in Pittsburgh, are significant options. The drive to these facilities, primarily via I-70 and the Parkway East (I-376), can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, a daily reality, can significantly extend these travel times, adding stress and potentially impacting appointment adherence.

Smaller, more local healthcare providers, such as Monongahela Valley Hospital in nearby Carroll Township, offer some basic services. The drive time to Monongahela Valley Hospital is typically shorter, around 15-20 minutes via Route 837. However, the scope of services available at these facilities might be limited compared to the larger Pittsburgh hospitals, necessitating longer trips for specialized treatments or consultations.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public transportation in Donora, while present, is limited. The primary provider is the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT), which operates bus routes throughout the region. However, service within Donora itself is infrequent, and direct routes to major Pittsburgh hospitals are scarce.

The PAT Route 55 (Donora-Monessen-Charleroi) offers a local connection, but its frequency is limited, often running hourly or less frequently. This route provides access to the Monongahela Valley Hospital, but it does not offer direct connections to the major Pittsburgh hospitals. Transferring to other routes, often at the Charleroi Transit Center, is necessary to reach Pittsburgh, adding significant travel time and complexity.

ADA accessibility on PAT buses is generally good, with ramps and designated seating available. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider these transit limitations, highlighting the potential difficulties faced by those relying on public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Donora area. However, their reliability and cost can be significant factors. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride to Pittsburgh hospitals can be substantial, potentially becoming a financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with transportation, offer an alternative. These services, such as MedRide or other private ambulance companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation. They often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical transport but recognizes their limitations. While offering a potential solution for some, their cost and availability create barriers for others.

**The Impact of Moving to Donora:**

For individuals considering moving to Donora, the "Lung Cancer Score" reveals a mixed picture. The town offers a sense of community and affordability. However, the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport present significant challenges.

Individuals with existing lung cancer diagnoses or those at high risk should carefully consider these factors. They must assess their ability to manage the travel demands associated with appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of proactive planning, including exploring all available transportation options, understanding insurance coverage for medical transport, and potentially considering the proximity of healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Donora, PA (ZIP code 15033) highlights the complexities of healthcare access. While the town offers a close-knit community, the transportation landscape presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of alternative transportation options create potential barriers to accessing timely and effective lung cancer care.

Prospective residents, especially those with or at risk of lung cancer, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and resources. Planning for potential travel delays, exploring all available transportation options, and understanding the financial implications of accessing care are crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access extends beyond the presence of medical facilities; it encompasses the ability to reach those facilities reliably and affordably. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Donora and ensuring access to the vital healthcare services needed.