15716, Black Lick, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15716, Black Lick, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.25 percent of residents in 15716 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health - Frick Hospital with a distance of 29.41 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Black Lick, PA (ZIP Code 15716)

The air in Black Lick, Pennsylvania, whispers tales of coal mines and rolling hills. But for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the wind carries a different message: the crucial need for timely and accessible healthcare. This write-up analyzes the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15716, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing potentially life-saving treatments. Our goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" – a composite assessment reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that **transportation** is not merely a convenience; it's a critical determinant of **healthcare access**. Delays in diagnosis and treatment due to transportation barriers can significantly impact patient outcomes, particularly for a disease like lung cancer, where early intervention is paramount. This is especially relevant for individuals considering **moving to Black Lick**, as they must factor in these considerations.

Black Lick itself is a small, rural community. The primary mode of **transportation** is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The town's location, nestled in the embrace of the Laurel Ridge, presents both scenic beauty and challenges regarding **healthcare access**. The nearest major hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in Johnstown and Indiana, Pennsylvania, requiring travel.

Driving from Black Lick to Johnstown, the closest city with a significant medical presence, usually involves taking Route 22 East. The journey is approximately 25 miles and takes about 30-45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times. The Johnstown area hosts hospitals like UPMC Somerset and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center.

Traveling to Indiana, PA, the county seat, involves a drive of approximately 20 miles via Route 119 North. This trip typically takes 30-40 minutes. Indiana Regional Medical Center offers a range of medical services, including oncology. The roads are generally in good condition, but again, weather can be a factor.

For individuals without personal vehicles, **public transit** options are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service within the county. However, routes and schedules are infrequent, especially in rural areas like Black Lick. Service to Johnstown or Indiana might involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, potentially making it an impractical option for patients requiring regular medical appointments. ICTA buses are required to be ADA-accessible, offering features like ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long travel times can still pose significant challenges.

**Ride-share** services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes or those with limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential option. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Black Lick, PA (15716) reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While the proximity to Johnstown and Indiana provides access to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of **public transit**, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with **ride-share** and medical **transportation** services create barriers.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive times to Johnstown and Indiana are a positive factor.
* **Public Transit:** The limited **public transit** options, with infrequent routes and potential long travel times, are a significant negative factor.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The inconsistent availability and potential cost of **ride-share** services are a moderate negative factor.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability of medical **transportation** services is a positive factor, but the cost and pre-booking requirements are a moderate negative.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The presence of ADA-compliant features on **public transit** is a positive factor, but the limited service frequency diminishes its overall impact.

Overall, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Black Lick, PA (15716) is moderately challenging. Residents have access to medical facilities, but their ability to reach these facilities in a timely and affordable manner is hampered by **transportation** limitations. This highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis or those considering **moving to Black Lick**.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve **healthcare access**, such as:

* Advocating for increased **public transit** service, including more frequent routes and extended hours.
* Exploring partnerships with **ride-share** companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments.
* Supporting the expansion of medical **transportation** services and exploring funding options to reduce costs for patients.
* Promoting telehealth services to reduce the need for travel to in-person appointments.

By addressing these **transportation** challenges, the community can improve the **healthcare access** for its residents, ensuring that those facing a lung cancer diagnosis receive the timely and appropriate care they deserve. This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Black Lick**, ensuring that they are aware of the resources available and any potential limitations in accessing essential medical services.