15631, Everson, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15631, Everson, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.96 percent of residents in 15631 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health - Frick Hospital with a distance of 4.31 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Everson, PA (ZIP Code 15631)

The air in Everson, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, holds a particular weight for anyone considering a move. Beyond the charm of small-town living, the reality of healthcare access looms large, especially for those concerned about lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 15631, evaluating the ease of transportation to vital medical services, offering a critical perspective for potential residents.

The score is not a definitive medical prognosis but a practical assessment. It reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care related to lung cancer. The higher the score, the more readily available and accessible these services are, considering various transportation options.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Everson, PA (15631): 6.5/10**

This score indicates a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While options exist, challenges exist in navigating transportation.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Route**

For residents of Everson, the most common route to specialized lung cancer care involves personal vehicles. The primary artery for this journey is **Pennsylvania Route 711**, a winding road that connects Everson to the larger towns and cities where hospitals and specialized clinics are located. Driving time to the closest major hospital, **Excela Health Frick Hospital** in Mount Pleasant, is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

The drive itself, while relatively short, presents its own set of variables. Route 711, though well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The road's winding nature can also be a challenge for those with mobility issues or who are uncomfortable with driving.

Further afield, the **University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities** in Pittsburgh, offering comprehensive cancer treatment centers, are approximately a 45-60 minute drive via **Pennsylvania Route 31** and **Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike)**. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, factoring in potential traffic delays and the physical demands of travel for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Everson and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA)** provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns and cities within the county. The availability of routes directly connecting Everson to major hospitals is scarce.

The WTA does offer some routes that could be used to access healthcare facilities, but these typically involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. For example, a potential route to Frick Hospital might involve a bus from Everson to Mount Pleasant, followed by a transfer to another bus.

Accessibility features on WTA buses, such as ramps and designated seating, are available to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for those seeking timely lung cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Everson area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as **CareRide** and **MedTrans**, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. While these services can be a valuable resource, they typically require pre-booking and can be costly.

**Assessing the Impact: Transportation and Healthcare Access**

The challenges in transportation directly impact healthcare access for potential residents of Everson, especially those with lung cancer or at high risk. The reliance on personal vehicles can be problematic for individuals undergoing treatment, which can cause fatigue and other physical limitations. The limited public transportation options further restrict healthcare access, particularly for those without access to a car or who cannot drive.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but these options come with their own limitations, including cost and potential availability issues.

**Implications for Moving to Everson**

For individuals considering a move to Everson, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning. Prospective residents should thoroughly research healthcare options, considering their individual needs and transportation capabilities.

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize locations within a reasonable driving distance of hospitals and specialized cancer centers.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a comprehensive transportation plan, considering all available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that their health insurance plan covers transportation costs, if applicable.
* **Support Network:** Establish a support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can assist with transportation and other needs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The Lung Cancer Score for Everson, PA, reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers the charm of small-town living, prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with accessing timely and effective lung cancer care. By understanding these challenges and proactively planning for transportation needs, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being when considering moving to Everson. The journey to healthcare access requires thoughtful planning and a proactive approach to ensure that individuals receive the care they need when they need it.