15537, Everett, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15537, Everett, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.61 percent of residents in 15537 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 3.57 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15537 (Everett, PA)

Considering a move to Everett, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15537), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options available for accessing vital medical services. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of the realities faced by residents needing specialized care. This information is crucial for anyone making a significant life decision, especially one impacting their health and well-being.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment. It highlights the challenges and advantages of accessing lung cancer healthcare in 15537, considering the geographical realities and available transportation infrastructure. This score aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The goal is to illuminate the path to accessing potentially life-saving treatments.

Everett, nestled in Bedford County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transit options. This necessitates a strong reliance on personal vehicles. The primary route for accessing major healthcare facilities is via **US-30** and **I-99**, both vital arteries for regional movement. The journey to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, like UPMC Altoona or Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, involves significant travel times.

Driving to UPMC Altoona, approximately 45 miles away, typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route primarily utilizes **US-30 East** and then connects to **I-99 North**. This drive, though manageable, requires careful planning, especially for patients undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects. The road conditions, particularly during winter months, can add considerable time and stress to the journey.

For specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients in 15537 might need to travel to Hershey, Pennsylvania, which is approximately 110 miles away. The drive primarily follows **US-30 East** to **I-76 East (Pennsylvania Turnpike)**. This journey can take around two hours, making it a significant undertaking, especially for frequent appointments. The toll road adds to the overall cost of transportation, a factor to consider when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

Public transportation options are limited in 15537. The Bedford County Transit Authority (BCTA) offers some services, but routes are infrequent and primarily focus on local travel within the county. These services are unlikely to provide direct or timely access to specialized cancer centers in Altoona or Hershey. The BCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the limited services available. However, the overall impact on healthcare access is minimal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to Altoona or Hershey can be substantial, representing a significant financial burden for patients and their families. Furthermore, the availability of drivers experienced in assisting patients with medical needs is uncertain.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and NEMT providers. However, these services can be costly, and their availability might be limited, requiring advance booking and careful coordination. The cost of these services is often not fully covered by insurance, leading to out-of-pocket expenses.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15537 is therefore influenced by these factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long travel distances to specialized cancer centers, the limited public transit, and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a challenging healthcare access environment. This situation demands careful consideration for individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk, especially when making decisions about moving to Everett.

The availability of support networks, such as family and friends who can provide transportation, becomes crucial. Access to reliable and affordable transportation options is a critical determinant of healthcare outcomes for lung cancer patients. The ability to attend appointments, receive timely treatment, and maintain a consistent care plan is directly linked to the availability of transportation.

Moving to Everett necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Individuals should research the availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists. They should also explore the feasibility of accessing cancer treatment centers in Altoona or Hershey. Careful planning, including budgeting for transportation costs and identifying alternative transportation options, is essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Individuals with lung cancer or those at risk must be prepared to navigate a complex transportation landscape to receive the care they need. This includes exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to medical transport services, and ensuring that they have a reliable means of accessing medical appointments and treatments.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Everett, Pennsylvania, should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare access challenges. While the area offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the transportation limitations can significantly impact healthcare outcomes for lung cancer patients. Careful consideration of these factors, alongside the availability of support networks and financial resources, is vital for making an informed decision. The journey to healthcare in 15537 requires careful navigation, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to accessing vital medical services.