15620, Bradenville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15620, Bradenville, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.49 percent of residents in 15620 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 2.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bradenville (ZIP Code 15620)

Bradenville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15620), a community nestled in the Laurel Highlands, offers a tranquil setting. However, assessing healthcare access, especially for a serious condition like lung cancer, requires a critical examination of **transportation** options. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for Bradenville, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing availability, crucial factors influencing **healthcare access** for potential residents or those already residing here. The goal is to provide a clear picture for individuals considering **moving to Bradenville** or seeking care within the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities in accessing lung cancer-related healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of timely and reliable **transportation** for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times: The Road to Treatment**

For Bradenville residents, the most immediate healthcare options are likely in nearby towns. Latrobe, a short drive away, hosts Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, a potential starting point for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The drive via **US Route 30** is generally straightforward, covering approximately 5-7 miles and taking around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a relatively favorable drive time, providing quicker access to emergency services and initial consultations.

However, specialized lung cancer care, including advanced diagnostics and treatment like radiation therapy or complex surgeries, might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh, roughly 45-50 miles away. The most direct route involves **US Route 30** east, then merging onto **Interstate 376** west, and finally onto **Interstate 79** south. This drive typically takes about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Alternatively, residents could use **State Route 981** south, connecting to **US Route 22** west, which then merges onto **Interstate 376** west. This route is slightly longer, adding about 10-15 minutes to the travel time. Traffic conditions, especially on **US Route 22**, can be unpredictable.

For those seeking care at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities, such as UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, or Allegheny Health Network (AHN) hospitals, the drive time and traffic considerations are paramount. The longer travel distances increase the potential for delays, especially for appointments or emergency situations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Bradenville are limited. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but routes serving Bradenville are infrequent and may not be directly accessible to all residents. The WCTA website (www.westmorelandtransit.com) provides route information, schedules, and details about ADA-accessible features on their buses.

Residents would likely need to take a bus from Bradenville to a larger town like Latrobe or Greensburg to connect to a route that may take them towards Pittsburgh. This adds significant time to the commute and may involve multiple transfers, making it a less desirable option for those undergoing cancer treatment, which requires frequent appointments and can be physically demanding.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While the WCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage remain a significant challenge for those relying on public **transportation**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Bradenville area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent trips to Pittsburgh for treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized **transportation** for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. Researching medical **transportation** options in the area is crucial for those who cannot drive or lack reliable **transportation**. Companies like Medical Transport of America (MTA) or local providers can be found online.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Bradenville (15620) is mixed. The proximity to Latrobe and its hospital provides relatively quick access to initial medical care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized treatment in Pittsburgh, coupled with limited public **transportation** and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing, presents significant challenges.

The long drive times to major medical centers in Pittsburgh, compounded by potential traffic delays, can create stress and logistical difficulties for patients. The lack of readily available and affordable public **transportation** options further exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals without access to a car or those with mobility limitations.

For individuals considering **moving to Bradenville** or already residing there, a careful assessment of their **transportation** needs and the availability of reliable **healthcare access** is essential. Planning for potential delays, exploring all available **transportation** options, and considering the financial implications of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** are crucial steps.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape of Bradenville. It emphasizes the need for individuals to understand their **transportation** options and to develop a comprehensive plan for accessing the care they need, when they need it. This includes establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, exploring support services, and understanding the potential impact of **transportation** on their treatment journey.