15695, Wyano, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15695, Wyano, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.40 percent of residents in 15695 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health - Frick Hospital with a distance of 8.44 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wyano, PA (ZIP Code 15695)

The air hangs heavy with the ghosts of industry in Wyano, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled within the embrace of Westmoreland County. For residents of ZIP Code 15695, the specter of lung cancer, a disease often linked to environmental factors and smoking, casts a long shadow. Assessing the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, is paramount. This "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the transportation landscape, a critical determinant of healthcare access for those living in Wyano.

The most common mode of transportation in Wyano is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The undulating terrain and the relative lack of public transit options necessitate reliance on cars for almost all errands, including medical appointments. A significant portion of the population, especially those with limited mobility or financial constraints, may find this reliance challenging.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a primary consideration. The closest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care are located in Greensburg, approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive via **Pennsylvania Route 30**, a major east-west thoroughfare. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times and adding to patient stress. The **Interstate 70** is also accessible, offering a slightly longer but often less congested route, particularly if traveling from the more southern parts of the ZIP code.

For those needing specialized oncology services, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities in Pittsburgh become the next logical destination. This journey, typically taking between 45 minutes to an hour, involves navigating **Pennsylvania Route 30** east, merging onto **Interstate 376** (the Parkway East), and then utilizing various city streets. The Parkway East, notorious for its rush-hour congestion, can significantly impact travel times, making appointments a stressful endeavor. Consider this when moving to Wyano.

Public transportation options are limited. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service, but routes within and around Wyano are infrequent and do not directly serve major healthcare facilities. Route 40, for example, runs from Greensburg to Monessen, but its schedule is limited, and its stops may be inconvenient for those needing to reach a specific hospital or clinic. The WTA website indicates that all buses are ADA-accessible, offering ramps and other features to assist passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and the lack of direct routes to medical centers pose a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is generally good in Greensburg and Pittsburgh, but may be more limited within Wyano itself, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several private companies operate in the region, offering services for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, adding another layer of complexity to the process of accessing healthcare.

The availability of transportation options also impacts the ability to access early detection and screening services. Lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, can significantly improve outcomes. However, the need to travel to a healthcare facility for these screenings, combined with the transportation challenges, may deter some individuals from participating.

The distance to pharmacies and other support services is also relevant. Access to medication, post-treatment care, and support groups is crucial for lung cancer patients. The availability of these resources within a reasonable distance from Wyano is an important factor in the overall healthcare access equation. The closest pharmacies are located in Greensburg, requiring travel via **Pennsylvania Route 30** or other local roads.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Wyano, PA (ZIP Code 15695) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Greensburg hospitals offers relatively quick access to basic medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those living in more remote parts of the ZIP code.

The long drive times to Pittsburgh for specialized care and the potential for traffic delays on the Parkway East add to the complexity. The lack of readily available public transportation and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services further exacerbate the challenges.

For residents of Wyano, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical factor in their ability to receive timely and effective care. This is especially true for those diagnosed with lung cancer, a disease that requires prompt diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. The need for improved public transportation, increased availability of affordable ride-sharing options, and greater awareness of medical transportation services are crucial steps in enhancing healthcare access for the community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access in Wyano. This includes not only addressing the transportation challenges but also promoting early detection, providing financial assistance for transportation costs, and ensuring that healthcare providers are aware of the specific needs of the community. The well-being of the residents of Wyano depends on it.