15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.60 percent of residents in 15357 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 9.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rices Landing (ZIP Code 15357)

Rices Landing, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Monongahela River, offers a tranquil escape. However, when considering a move to this charming locale, particularly for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer, a critical factor emerges: access to timely and effective healthcare. This write-up explores the nuances of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** in and around ZIP Code 15357, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" designed to provide a comprehensive overview.

The diagnosis of lung cancer necessitates a multi-faceted approach, including prompt diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This requires consistent access to specialized medical professionals, diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and potentially, surgical interventions. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape becomes paramount, impacting not only the convenience but also the efficacy of treatment.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

The primary arteries connecting Rices Landing to regional medical centers are Pennsylvania Route 88 and Interstate 79. Route 88, a scenic but often winding road, serves as the main thoroughfare, offering a direct route to nearby towns and cities. Interstate 79, a major north-south highway, provides faster access to Pittsburgh, the region's healthcare hub.

Driving times, of course, fluctuate based on traffic conditions. During peak hours, the commute to Pittsburgh (approximately 50 miles) via I-79 can stretch to over an hour. Even a trip to a closer facility, such as Monongahela Valley Hospital in Carroll Township, PA, (roughly 20 miles) via Route 88 and Route 837, can take upwards of 45 minutes, accounting for potential traffic and road conditions.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. Winter weather, in particular, can pose significant challenges, potentially delaying or even preventing travel. Residents should factor in the potential for inclement weather when planning appointments or emergency situations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in this area are limited, posing a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Greene County Transit Authority (GCTA) offers bus services, but the routes and schedules may not be conducive to frequent medical appointments. Services are often limited, particularly on weekends and evenings, and may not provide direct routes to specialized cancer centers.

Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is also a critical consideration. While the GCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including lift-equipped buses, the availability and reliability of these features should be confirmed in advance of any travel. The frequency of service and the potential for delays can significantly impact **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like MedTrans or First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services, while often more expensive than ride-sharing, offer a higher degree of reliability and comfort.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

The availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor. While Rices Landing itself may not have a comprehensive cancer center, several hospitals and medical facilities in the surrounding areas offer varying levels of care.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a renowned cancer treatment facility, is a significant draw for patients in the region. However, the distance and **transportation** challenges to reach this facility must be carefully considered. Smaller community hospitals, like those in Waynesburg or Uniontown, may offer basic cancer services, but may not have the same breadth of specialists or advanced treatment options.

**Moving to Rices Landing: The Lung Cancer Score**

To provide a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** in Rices Landing for individuals affected by lung cancer, we propose a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the following criteria:

* **Proximity to Cancer Centers:** Distance to major cancer treatment facilities (e.g., UPMC Hillman, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute).
* **Drive-Time Reliability:** Average drive times during peak and off-peak hours, considering potential traffic and road conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability, frequency, and ADA compliance of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* **Specialist Availability:** Access to oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists.

Each criterion will be assigned a score, and the overall "Lung Cancer Score" will be calculated. This score will provide a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing **healthcare access** in the area.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Rices Landing offers a peaceful and desirable lifestyle. However, for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer, the **transportation** landscape and the distance to specialized medical care require careful consideration. While the area may present some challenges in terms of **healthcare access**, the beauty of the location, the strong community, and the proximity to regional medical centers can still make it a viable option for some.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Rices Landing, or any location, is a personal one. A thorough understanding of the **transportation** options, the availability of healthcare services, and the potential impact on quality of life is essential. By carefully evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" and considering the individual's specific needs and circumstances, individuals can make an informed decision about whether Rices Landing is the right place for them.