15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.02 percent of residents in 15324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 9.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cokeburg (ZIP Code 15324)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and the ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Cokeburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15324), delves into the crucial aspect of transportation, assessing the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services. This is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Cokeburg, as their proximity to healthcare directly impacts their quality of life, particularly when facing a diagnosis.

Cokeburg, a small borough nestled in Washington County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a close-knit community, its rural setting impacts healthcare access. The journey to specialized lung cancer care involves navigating the terrain and understanding the available transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Cokeburg is the reliance on personal vehicles. The closest hospitals equipped to handle complex lung cancer cases are located in Washington, Pennsylvania, and Pittsburgh. The journey to Washington Hospital, a regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route utilizes Pennsylvania Route 917, a winding two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours.

For more specialized care, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) network, particularly UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, becomes the destination. This trip requires a significantly longer drive, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on the specific location within Pittsburgh and traffic conditions. The most common route involves traveling north on Interstate 79 (I-79), a major highway, and then navigating the Pittsburgh city streets. Alternatively, residents may choose to utilize Pennsylvania Route 519, which offers a scenic but often slower alternative.

The variability in drive times highlights the importance of planning. Traffic accidents, weather conditions, and time of day significantly impact travel duration. This necessitates residents and potential newcomers to factor in extra time for appointments and emergency situations. The Lung Cancer Score will therefore account for these variables, emphasizing the need for preparedness and the potential impact on patient outcomes.

**Public Transit Considerations**

Public transportation options in Cokeburg and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Washington County Transportation Authority (WCTA), which operates bus routes throughout the county. However, these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve major medical facilities in Pittsburgh.

The WCTA offers some routes that connect to Washington Hospital. These routes are not ADA-accessible, which is a significant barrier for patients with mobility issues. The limited frequency of service and the lack of direct routes to Pittsburgh hospitals severely restrict the usefulness of public transit for lung cancer patients requiring specialized care. This deficiency in public transportation significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score, emphasizing the need for alternative options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Landscape**

The advent of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has provided an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Cokeburg is not always consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing can also be a factor, increasing the cost of transportation during times of high demand.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services are often covered by insurance, but require prior arrangements and can have limitations in terms of availability and scheduling. The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the accessibility and affordability of these services, considering their impact on the overall healthcare access picture.

**The Impact of Moving to Cokeburg**

For individuals considering a move to Cokeburg, the transportation landscape must be a critical factor. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the importance of assessing healthcare access before relocating. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the distance to specialized medical care presents a challenge, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or those at higher risk of lung cancer.

The lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful consideration. Potential residents should evaluate their ability to drive or have access to reliable transportation. They should also research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This proactive approach will ensure that they can access the necessary healthcare services if needed.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Lung Cancer Score for Cokeburg, ZIP Code 15324, will be a composite measure, considering drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It will incorporate data on traffic patterns, service availability, and cost. The score will reflect the overall ease with which residents can access timely and appropriate healthcare, particularly for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

This assessment will provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements in transportation infrastructure and services are needed. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Cokeburg, especially those facing the challenges of lung cancer, have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. The final score will be a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access and the well-being of its residents.