15742, Glen Campbell, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15742, Glen Campbell, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.80 percent of residents in 15742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 12.74 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glen Campbell, PA (ZIP Code 15742)

Considering a move to Glen Campbell, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of rural Indiana County? This assessment offers a "Lung Cancer Score," a personalized evaluation of your healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, factoring in the unique transportation challenges of ZIP Code 15742. This score is designed to inform your decision, recognizing that timely access to specialized medical care is crucial. It’s more than just a number; it's an understanding of the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

Glen Campbell, a small community, presents a specific set of transportation hurdles. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns, demanding reliance on personal vehicles or alternative modes of transport. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit limitations, and ride-sharing options to provide a realistic picture of your access to potentially life-saving care.

**The Score's Components:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is built upon three key pillars: Drive Time, Public Transportation Feasibility, and Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport Availability. Each component is weighted to reflect its impact on your ability to reach essential healthcare services.

**Drive Time: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of 15742, the primary mode of transportation to specialized medical facilities is the personal vehicle. The time spent on the road is a significant factor in your healthcare access. The nearest hospitals with oncology departments are located in Indiana, PA, and Johnstown, PA.

The journey to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), via **US Route 219** and **PA Route 119**, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. The distance to Johnstown, home to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, is a longer haul, typically taking 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes via **US Route 219** and **PA Route 56**. This route offers a more direct path, but road conditions can be variable.

The drive times are crucial. Early detection and treatment of lung cancer are paramount. Delays in reaching a specialist can negatively impact outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these drive times, assigning a lower score if travel is prolonged.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation in 15742 is limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are restricted. The ICTA does not have a dedicated route serving Glen Campbell, and services would necessitate a transfer in Indiana, PA. This adds considerable travel time and complexity.

The ICTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility. However, the infrequent schedules and the need for transfers make public transportation a less viable option for individuals needing frequent medical appointments or those with mobility challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects this limitation, acknowledging the reduced healthcare access due to the lack of reliable public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Indiana, PA, area, but their presence in Glen Campbell is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not always feasible.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more reliable option for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly. Several ambulance services operate in Indiana County, including Citizens Ambulance Service. NEMT providers, like Medical Transportation Management (MTM), offer transportation for medical appointments. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs are considered in the "Lung Cancer Score."

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Calculation:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is calculated using a weighted formula:

* **Drive Time (50%):** Reflects the time required to reach the nearest cancer centers. Shorter drive times receive higher scores.
* **Public Transportation Feasibility (25%):** Considers the availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options. More accessible and frequent services result in a higher score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport Availability (25%):** Evaluates the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Greater availability and affordability contribute to a higher score.

**Score Interpretation:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" will range from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the best access to care. A higher score indicates better access to timely diagnosis and treatment. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the contributing factors, offering a personalized assessment based on your individual needs and circumstances.

**Moving to Glen Campbell: A Considered Decision**

Moving to Glen Campbell requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the transportation challenges pose potential barriers to timely medical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these challenges, enabling you to make an informed decision.

The remoteness of Glen Campbell necessitates proactive planning. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area is essential. Discussing your transportation needs with your physician and exploring options for medical transport is crucial.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15742 highlights the importance of careful planning regarding healthcare access. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the transportation limitations require a proactive approach to ensure timely access to specialized medical care. Understanding the drive times, public transit constraints, and ride-sharing/medical transport options is vital for making an informed decision about moving to Glen Campbell. Prioritizing healthcare access will ensure the best possible outcomes, should you choose to make Glen Campbell your home.