15690, Vandergrift, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15690, Vandergrift, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.12 percent of residents in 15690 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health Latrobe Hospital with a distance of 21.94 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Vandergrift, PA (ZIP Code 15690)

The crisp air of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Kiskiminetas River, offers a serene backdrop for life. However, a crucial aspect of daily existence, particularly for those concerned about their health, is the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for ZIP code 15690, considering the challenges of navigating the region for potential lung cancer patients. The score, though not a formal medical assessment, aims to highlight the practical realities of seeking care, especially for individuals **moving to Vandergrift**.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate various factors, including drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. It will assess the potential difficulties faced by those needing regular appointments, specialized treatments, or emergency care related to lung cancer. We will focus on the most relevant healthcare facilities and the practicality of reaching them from Vandergrift.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries to Care**

For residents of Vandergrift, the most common route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local roadways. Driving is often the primary mode of **transportation**, and the efficiency of this option significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The journey to Allegheny Health Network (AHN) facilities, particularly Forbes Hospital in Monroeville, a primary destination for cancer care, necessitates utilizing Pennsylvania Route 66. This highway, known for its winding stretches, can become congested during peak hours, potentially extending the drive time. Under normal traffic conditions, the trip to Forbes Hospital is approximately a 30-45 minute drive.

Another critical healthcare destination is UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. This journey requires traversing PA-66 South to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) West. The Turnpike, a toll road, provides a faster route, but tolls and potential traffic bottlenecks, especially near Pittsburgh, can impact travel time. Expect a drive of about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

For those seeking care at UPMC Shadyside, the route is similar, but with a slightly shorter drive. The total travel time remains comparable to UPMC Presbyterian, approximately 40-55 minutes.

The efficiency of these drive times is crucial. A lung cancer diagnosis often requires frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Longer drive times can exacerbate the stress of treatment and make consistent care more challenging.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in Vandergrift are limited. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and may not directly connect to major medical facilities.

Currently, the WCTA operates a limited schedule, with routes primarily serving local communities and some connections to larger towns. Direct routes to major hospitals like Forbes Hospital or UPMC facilities are not available. Passengers would likely need to transfer between multiple buses, significantly increasing travel time and complexity.

The lack of direct routes and the infrequency of service render public transit a less viable option for many patients, especially those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the overall limited reach of the public transit system presents a significant hurdle for those reliant on it.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Vandergrift area. However, their availability and pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unpredictable.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs. The availability of medical transport providers in the Vandergrift area should be researched.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Vandergrift**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Vandergrift (ZIP code 15690) suggests a moderate level of **healthcare access** challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles for travel to major medical centers, coupled with limited public transit options, can present difficulties for lung cancer patients.

The score is influenced by the following factors: the distance and potential traffic congestion on PA-66 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike; the lack of direct public transit routes to major hospitals; the reliance on ride-sharing services, which may be costly and unreliable; and the need to arrange and pay for medical transport.

For individuals **moving to Vandergrift**, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer, it is crucial to consider these **transportation** challenges. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to assist with appointments, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport.

The availability of high-quality healthcare is paramount, but the practicality of accessing that care is equally important. This "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides a practical overview of the **healthcare access** landscape in Vandergrift, enabling informed decision-making for those seeking a new home. The score emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** logistics to ensure timely and consistent access to vital medical services.