15435, Fairbank, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15435, Fairbank, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 15435 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 7.50 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: 15435 – A Transportation-Focused Analysis**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially for a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, demands a thorough understanding of available transportation options. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 15435 (Fairbank, Pennsylvania), provides a "Lung Cancer Score" by evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer treatment centers, considering various transportation modes and their limitations. This score aims to inform residents and prospective movers about the practical realities of seeking care in this specific geographic area.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment. It is a transportation-centric analysis to help individuals understand the ease of access to care.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary challenge for residents of Fairbank is its relatively isolated location. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are in Uniontown and Pittsburgh, requiring significant travel. A drive to Uniontown Hospital, approximately 10 miles away, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing this facility involves navigating local roads and a portion of **US Route 40**, a major east-west artery. The roads are generally well-maintained, but can experience congestion during peak hours.

For more specialized treatment, residents often need to travel to Pittsburgh, roughly 50 miles away. This journey involves a combination of **US Route 40**, **PA Route 51**, and potentially portions of the **Mon-Fayette Expressway (PA Route 43)**. The drive time to major Pittsburgh hospitals, such as UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, can range from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, especially around the city. The **Mon-Fayette Expressway** offers a faster route, but tolls apply.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in 15435 are limited. The Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT) provides bus service throughout Fayette County. However, service frequency and route coverage are restricted, especially in rural areas like Fairbank. There are no direct routes to Pittsburgh, making accessing specialized care via public transit extremely difficult.

The FACT system offers some routes that may connect to Uniontown. However, the schedules are often infrequent, and transfers may be required, significantly increasing travel time. The accessibility of FACT buses for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial consideration. The FACT system strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible buses and services. However, the practical limitations of the system, including limited route coverage and infrequent schedules, can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing to Pittsburgh can be substantial, making it a less viable option for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available, but their cost can be significant. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with medical equipment and personal care. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, offering specialized medical transport. However, these services typically require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent situations.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15435 reflects the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access. The score is impacted by the distance to specialized cancer centers, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the potential for traffic delays.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care are essential. The travel time and transportation challenges can significantly impact the patient's quality of life, treatment adherence, and overall prognosis.

**Moving to Fairbank: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Fairbank, a careful evaluation of healthcare access is crucial, particularly if they have existing health conditions or are at risk for lung cancer. The availability of reliable transportation to specialized cancer centers is a critical factor.

Prospective residents should consider the following:

* **Proximity to Cancer Centers:** The distance to Uniontown Hospital and Pittsburgh hospitals should be a primary consideration.
* **Transportation Options:** Assess the feasibility of driving, utilizing public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Financial Implications:** Factor in the costs of transportation, including fuel, tolls, ride-sharing fares, and medical transport fees.
* **Support System:** Consider the availability of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Accessibility Needs:** Evaluate the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15435 highlights the importance of transportation planning for individuals seeking lung cancer care. While Fairbank offers a close-knit community, its relative isolation and limited transportation options pose challenges. Residents and prospective movers must carefully consider these factors to ensure they can access the necessary medical care and support. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical component of healthcare access, impacting the quality of life and treatment outcomes for those battling lung cancer.