15617, Arona, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15617, Arona, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.06 percent of residents in 15617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 4.36 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Arona, PA (ZIP Code 15617)

The decision to move, especially when facing a health concern like lung cancer, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. For individuals considering relocation to Arona, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15617), this Lung Cancer Score provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical care. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of navigating the area, emphasizing the crucial link between transportation and healthcare access.

Arona, a small community nestled in Westmoreland County, presents unique transportation challenges. Its rural character influences the availability and efficiency of transportation options. This score considers drive times to major healthcare facilities, public transit accessibility, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, all critical factors in determining the ease of receiving lung cancer treatment.

The primary factor in our score centers on drive times. The most direct route to UPMC East, a prominent regional hospital, involves navigating **Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike)** and **US Route 22**. The drive, depending on traffic, can range from 20 to 40 minutes. This assumes a personal vehicle, the most common mode of transportation. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend these travel times.

Alternatively, individuals might consider driving to Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg. This trip, primarily utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 30**, is generally shorter, averaging 15 to 25 minutes. However, this route can also be subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, further impacts travel times and safety.

Public transportation options in Arona are limited. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns and cities within the county. Route 20, which connects Greensburg to Jeannette, may offer limited access for those living closer to the main roads, but it does not directly serve Arona. Furthermore, the frequency of buses on this route is not ideal for regular medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical aspect of public transit accessibility. WCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose significant challenges for those requiring regular medical appointments. The lack of direct routes to major hospitals necessitates transfers, adding to travel time and complexity.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density, which can be lower in rural areas like Arona. Surge pricing, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, can also make these services expensive, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Companies like MedExpress and other private medical transport providers operate in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, depending on insurance coverage and the distance traveled.

The impact of these transportation factors extends beyond mere convenience. Delayed or missed appointments due to transportation challenges can negatively affect treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients. Regular access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments is crucial for effective cancer management. The availability and efficiency of transportation directly influence the ability of patients to adhere to their treatment plans.

For individuals considering moving to Arona while battling lung cancer, the Lung Cancer Score reflects a complex picture. While proximity to hospitals like Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital offers a shorter drive, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The cost and availability of medical transport services must also be carefully considered.

The score also highlights the importance of planning and preparation. Before relocating, individuals should thoroughly research transportation options, including contacting WCTA for route information, checking the availability of ride-sharing services, and obtaining quotes from medical transport providers. Understanding the specific needs of their treatment plan, such as frequency of appointments and required travel times, is essential.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Arona requires a careful weighing of the benefits and drawbacks. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. For lung cancer patients, a proactive approach to transportation planning, including exploring all available options and establishing reliable backup plans, is crucial for ensuring consistent access to vital medical care. This score underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making when considering a move to this Westmoreland County community.