15687, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15687, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.70 percent of residents in 15687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 12.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stahlstown (ZIP Code 15687)

Stahlstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, offers a tranquil life for its residents. However, when facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, the serene landscape can transform into a complex web of transportation challenges. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for Stahlstown, assessing the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for lung cancer treatment, considering the available transportation options. Understanding these nuances is critical, especially for individuals **moving to Stahlstown** or seeking improved **healthcare access**.

The score considers factors like drive times to cancer treatment centers, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each category is evaluated and weighted to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities. This assessment is not a definitive medical recommendation but rather a guide to understanding the logistical hurdles that may arise when seeking lung cancer care in this specific ZIP code.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Stahlstown's primary access points for healthcare are via roadways. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting Stahlstown to the outside world is Pennsylvania Route 711. This road, though scenic, can be winding and slow, particularly during peak hours.

The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, approximately 15 miles away. The drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. The route involves navigating Route 711 and then transitioning onto US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion, especially near the hospital.

Another option is UPMC East in Monroeville, approximately 40 miles away. The journey involves taking Route 711 to Route 22, a larger highway with higher speeds. The drive time is generally around 50-70 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. While UPMC East offers a wide range of cancer services, the longer drive time presents a significant challenge for frequent appointments and treatments.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Shadyside and UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh are further afield, approximately 50-60 miles away. The route involves navigating Route 711 to Route 22, then connecting to the Parkway East (I-376). The drive can take 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. These hospitals offer specialized cancer care, but the extended travel time can be a significant burden.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Stahlstown are extremely limited. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some bus services in the county, but these routes are infrequent and primarily serve larger towns. There are no direct bus routes from Stahlstown to major medical facilities.

The nearest bus stops with potential connections are in Ligonier, approximately 10 miles away. However, these routes are not designed for regular medical appointments and may require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a major concern, as many WCTA buses may not have full ADA compliance.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Stahlstown can be variable. Response times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather may make these options expensive. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not advisable.

Medical transport services are a crucial element of **healthcare access** for individuals with limited mobility or those unable to drive. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require advance booking and can be costly. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the costs, but careful planning is essential.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **MedRide Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Medical Transport:** Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transport.
* **AmbuCare:** Offers non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair and stretcher services.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The Lung Cancer Score for Stahlstown, 15687, is influenced by several factors. Drive times to cancer treatment centers are moderate, but the reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependence that can be problematic. Public transportation is severely lacking, leaving residents with limited alternatives. Ride-sharing services provide some flexibility but are not a reliable solution for regular appointments. Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for those who need it, but they come with associated costs and logistical considerations.

Considering these factors, the Lung Cancer Score for Stahlstown reflects the challenges faced by individuals seeking lung cancer care. The score is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles, which may be difficult for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of medical transport services and the proximity to Excela Health Latrobe Hospital provide some relief.

**Recommendations:**

* Individuals **moving to Stahlstown** should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan for potential challenges in accessing healthcare.
* Patients should explore medical transport options early in their treatment journey and understand the associated costs and insurance coverage.
* Advocacy for improved public transportation services in the area is crucial to enhance **healthcare access** for all residents.
* Exploring telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations can reduce the need for frequent travel.

This Lung Cancer Score provides a snapshot of the transportation landscape for healthcare access in Stahlstown. It underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness when navigating the complexities of cancer care in a rural setting. Understanding these challenges is the first step towards ensuring that residents of Stahlstown have the support they need to fight this disease.