15722, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15722, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.97 percent of residents in 15722 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 28.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carrolltown (ZIP Code 15722)

Considering a move to Carrolltown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15722)? This assessment provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a personalized evaluation of healthcare access within the context of potential lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The score considers the ease of transportation to medical facilities offering diagnostic and therapeutic services, reflecting the crucial role of transportation in healthcare access. This information is particularly vital for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or those seeking to proactively assess their healthcare options.

Carrolltown, a small borough nestled in Cambria County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The landscape, characterized by rolling hills and rural roads, significantly impacts transportation options. This score will illuminate the complexities of navigating the healthcare system from Carrolltown, offering insights into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate factors such as the proximity of hospitals with oncology departments, the availability of diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services. It will also consider the accessibility of pulmonary specialists and oncologists. The ultimate goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking lung cancer care in this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Carrolltown is by personal vehicle. The nearest major hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Johnstown and Altoona.

Driving to Johnstown, home to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 219 South. The drive, covering approximately 25 miles, usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 219, while a major thoroughfare, can experience congestion during peak hours.

Altoona, home to UPMC Altoona, is approximately 50 miles from Carrolltown. The most direct route involves taking Pennsylvania Route 36 South to U.S. Route 22 East. The drive time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, but can be longer depending on traffic on Route 22, a busy highway.

Smaller, local medical facilities, such as primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, are available in Carrolltown and nearby towns like Ebensburg. These facilities can provide initial screenings and referrals, but they typically lack the specialized equipment and expertise required for comprehensive lung cancer care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options in and around Carrolltown are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but routes are infrequent and may not directly serve hospitals in Johnstown or Altoona.

The CCTA does offer routes that connect to Johnstown, but these routes often involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of these routes makes them less practical for urgent medical appointments or regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transit to Altoona is even more challenging, requiring multiple transfers and significantly longer travel times. The reliance on multiple modes of transportation can add considerable stress and inconvenience for patients, particularly those undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Carrolltown area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeFleet, are available for patients requiring ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance, but they typically require pre-authorization and can be subject to delays.

Medical transport services are particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services can be strained, especially during periods of high demand.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the overall healthcare access picture, factoring in the availability of specialists, the presence of support groups, and the ease of accessing prescription medications.

The availability of pulmonary specialists and oncologists in the immediate vicinity of Carrolltown is limited. Patients often need to travel to Johnstown or Altoona for consultations and treatment. This travel burden can significantly impact the quality of life for patients and their families.

Support groups for cancer patients and their families are available in Johnstown and Altoona, but accessing these resources requires transportation. The availability of these groups is crucial for providing emotional support and practical assistance during a challenging time.

**Scoring Methodology:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a subjective assessment based on the factors discussed above. It is not a definitive medical diagnosis or recommendation. The score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest access.

The score will be determined by considering the following factors:

* **Drive time to major hospitals:** (Weight: 30%)
* **Availability of public transit:** (Weight: 20%)
* **Reliability of ride-sharing services:** (Weight: 15%)
* **Availability of medical transport:** (Weight: 15%)
* **Proximity to specialists and support services:** (Weight: 20%)

**Final Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Carrolltown (ZIP code 15722) is estimated to be a **4 out of 10**. This score reflects the challenges associated with accessing specialized lung cancer care in this rural area.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Carrolltown:**

* **Assess your current health status:** If you have pre-existing respiratory conditions or are at high risk for lung cancer, carefully consider the transportation challenges before moving.
* **Establish a healthcare plan:** Identify the hospitals and specialists you will utilize and understand the transportation logistics.
* **Explore transportation options:** Research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport, and the feasibility of public transit.
* **Consider proximity to family and friends:** Having support from family and friends who can assist with transportation can be invaluable.
* **Factor in travel time and costs:** Budget for transportation expenses and factor in the time required for travel to medical appointments.

Moving to Carrolltown offers a unique lifestyle, but it is essential to acknowledge the healthcare access challenges. By carefully considering the "Lung Cancer Score" and implementing the recommendations, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive timely and appropriate care. This proactive approach is crucial for anyone considering a move to Carrolltown, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory concerns. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical component of accessing the healthcare needed for early detection and effective treatment.