15644, Jeannette, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15644, Jeannette, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.74 percent of residents in 15644 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Emerus Westmoreland, Llc with a distance of 1.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jeannette, PA (ZIP Code 15644)

Considering a move to Jeannette, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15644) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for a potential lung cancer diagnosis? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to facilitate timely and efficient access to vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities for individuals requiring lung cancer care.

Jeannette, a city steeped in industrial history, presents unique transportation challenges. While the community spirit is strong, navigating the landscape to access specialized medical care requires careful planning. The "Lung Cancer Score" aims to equip potential residents with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

**The Score's Methodology:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The primary method of transportation in the area.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Uber and Lyft availability and cost.
* **Medical Transport:** Specialized services for those with mobility limitations.
* **Healthcare Facilities:** Proximity and specialization of hospitals and clinics.

**Drive Times: The Cornerstone of Access**

For residents of Jeannette, the automobile is often the primary mode of transportation. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach healthcare facilities is crucial, especially when dealing with a serious illness like lung cancer. Driving times are significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak hours.

The primary arteries for travel are **US Route 30** and **Pennsylvania Route 130**. **US Route 30** provides a direct route to Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg, a key healthcare provider in the region. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes in normal traffic. However, during rush hour, this can easily extend to 30 minutes or more.

Heading east on **US Route 30** towards Latrobe and beyond offers access to additional medical facilities. **Pennsylvania Route 130** provides a more local route, connecting Jeannette to surrounding communities and healthcare providers. However, this road is often congested, and drive times can vary significantly.

For specialized cancer care, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities in Pittsburgh are a major draw. The drive to UPMC Shadyside Hospital, for instance, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour via **US Route 30** and the **Parkway East (I-376)**. This journey can be significantly longer during peak traffic, potentially adding an extra 30-45 minutes to the commute. This is a critical factor for those requiring frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transportation in Jeannette is primarily provided by the Westmoreland Transit Authority. While the system offers routes within the city and to surrounding areas, its reach is limited, and frequency can be an issue. The availability of public transit can be a significant factor for those who do not drive or cannot afford the costs of ride-sharing.

Several routes, including the **Route 1** and **Route 6** buses, serve Jeannette. These routes connect to Greensburg and other towns, providing access to healthcare facilities. However, these routes may not directly serve all medical centers, requiring transfers and increasing travel time.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. Westmoreland Transit offers accessible buses, but riders should confirm the availability of accessible features on specific routes. The frequency of service on these routes is another important factor. Limited service during evenings and weekends can pose challenges for those needing urgent or off-hour medical care.

**Ride-Sharing: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Jeannette, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers convenience, it can be an expensive option, particularly for longer distances to Pittsburgh-area hospitals. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as delays or cancellations can disrupt scheduled medical appointments.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Assistance**

For individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive, medical transport services are essential. Several companies provide specialized transportation to and from medical appointments. These services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

Medical transport services can provide a vital link to healthcare access, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of these services and their coverage by insurance plans should be thoroughly investigated.

**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Specialization**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg is the closest major medical center, offering a range of services, including oncology. However, for specialized lung cancer care, including advanced treatments and clinical trials, patients may need to travel to Pittsburgh-area hospitals like UPMC Shadyside or UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

The availability of specialized oncologists, pulmonologists, and support services within a reasonable distance is a key consideration. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the need for comprehensive care, including access to diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive services like palliative care and psychological support.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Summary**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Jeannette, PA (ZIP code 15644) reflects a mixed picture. While Westmoreland Hospital offers local care, access to specialized lung cancer treatments in Pittsburgh requires longer travel times, primarily via **US Route 30** and the **Parkway East**. Public transit offers limited options, and ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent and costly. Medical transport services provide a vital lifeline for those with mobility limitations.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the potential impact of traffic on commute times.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Investigate the availability and accessibility of public transit routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing Costs:** Determine the potential cost of ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments.
* **Research Medical Transport Services:** Identify and evaluate the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Assess Healthcare Facility Proximity:** Consider the distance to both local and specialized cancer care providers.
* **Plan for Potential Delays:** Factor in potential delays due to traffic, weather, or transportation issues.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Jeannette presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration of transportation options. By understanding the available resources and potential challenges, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to vital medical services. This information will empower those considering moving to Jeannette and needing lung cancer care to navigate the transportation landscape and ensure they can access the care they need. The focus on transportation and healthcare access is paramount for a smooth transition to a new community.