15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.51 percent of residents in 15728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 20.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728)

The air hangs heavy with a silent threat, a reality particularly acute for residents of Clymer, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15728): the potential for lung cancer. This isn't just a medical concern; it's a geographical one. Your ability to access timely and quality healthcare, especially for a disease as critical as lung cancer, hinges on your **transportation** options. This write-up analyzes the **healthcare access** landscape, offering insights for current residents and those considering **moving to Clymer**, with a focus on the practicalities of reaching vital medical services. We'll call this the "Lung Cancer Score" for Clymer.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers. The primary highway artery for Clymer residents is Route 119. This road, while offering relative speed, can be subject to delays due to traffic and weather conditions. A journey to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), a crucial hub for initial diagnostics and some treatments, is a reasonable 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This drive is generally straightforward, but the potential for delays needs to be factored in, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

For more specialized care, including advanced treatments like radiation therapy and complex surgeries, patients often need to travel further afield. UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, a leading cancer center, is approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive via Route 119 and then the PA Turnpike (I-76). This longer commute significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it introduces greater travel time, potential fatigue for the patient, and the added cost of fuel and tolls. The drive can become especially challenging during winter months, when snow and ice can drastically increase travel times and the risk of accidents.

Another option, though further, is the drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, which is roughly a 3-hour drive. The journey involves navigating several highways, including Route 119, US-22, and then I-81. This extended travel time underscores the importance of planning and considering all available options when facing a cancer diagnosis.

Public **transportation** in Clymer presents a significant challenge. The availability of buses and other forms of public transit is limited, making it difficult for individuals without personal vehicles to access healthcare facilities. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are limited, often requiring transfers and extended travel times. Information regarding specific route numbers, ADA accessibility features, and schedules should be obtained directly from ICTA. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also add a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing further reduces the Lung Cancer Score, as it introduces uncertainties and financial considerations.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a crucial lifeline for some patients. These services, provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or other local providers, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. While these services can be invaluable, they often require pre-booking and may have limitations based on insurance coverage and patient needs. The availability and cost of these services must be carefully considered when evaluating the Lung Cancer Score.

The impact of distance on the Lung Cancer Score extends beyond travel time. It also affects the availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and specialized medical professionals. Patients in Clymer may need to travel to larger cities like Indiana or Pittsburgh to access these essential resources, further increasing the burden of care.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Clymer is influenced by the presence of local primary care physicians and specialists. While these professionals play a crucial role in initial diagnosis and ongoing care, their ability to provide comprehensive cancer treatment is often limited. Patients often need to be referred to specialized cancer centers for advanced treatments. The availability of local primary care physicians and specialists can positively influence the Lung Cancer Score by facilitating early detection and providing ongoing support.

For individuals **moving to Clymer**, understanding the **transportation** challenges and the distances to specialized cancer centers is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

The Lung Cancer Score for Clymer reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of IRMC offers a degree of local **healthcare access**, the need for travel to more specialized cancer centers significantly impacts the overall score. The limited public **transportation** options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** further complicate the situation.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728) highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration for those facing a cancer diagnosis. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape, access timely and quality healthcare, and secure necessary support services is critical. While the community offers a degree of local support, the need for travel to specialized cancer centers and the limited public **transportation** options necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Understanding these factors is essential for both current residents and those considering **moving to Clymer**, ensuring that individuals can effectively manage their health and access the care they need.