15764, Oliveburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15764, Oliveburg, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.42 percent of residents in 15764 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 2.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Oliveburg (ZIP Code 15764)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of pine and possibility in Oliveburg, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15764. Nestled in the heart of Indiana County, this rural community offers a slower pace of life, a connection to nature, and a tight-knit community. However, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of Oliveburg can be challenged by the complexities of healthcare access, specifically when it comes to transportation. This write-up explores the landscape of **transportation** options and their impact on a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of this area, considering the critical need for timely **healthcare access**.

Imagine a resident, let’s call her Eleanor, newly diagnosed. Her journey through treatment – from diagnosis to surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up appointments – hinges on her ability to reliably and affordably get to and from medical facilities. This "Lung Cancer Score" attempts to quantify the challenges Eleanor, and others like her, face in accessing vital care within and beyond the borders of 15764. The score will be influenced by factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the availability of specialized medical transport.

The primary healthcare hub for Oliveburg residents is Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located in the town of Indiana, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route is via **U.S. Route 119 South**, a relatively well-maintained two-lane highway. During off-peak hours, the drive takes roughly 20-25 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly weekdays between 7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:00 PM, traffic can slow considerably, extending the commute to 35-45 minutes. This time factor is crucial for patients needing urgent care, frequent appointments, or experiencing side effects that require immediate attention.

Another option is to utilize **Pennsylvania Route 286 West**, which offers a slightly longer but often less congested route, especially if you are coming from the northern portion of the ZIP Code. This route adds about 5-10 minutes to the drive time, but can be a viable alternative during peak traffic periods on Route 119. The condition of the roads is generally good, but winter weather can pose a significant challenge, particularly for those without reliable all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles. Snow and ice can make these routes treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to crucial medical appointments.

Beyond IRMC, specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh, approximately 60-70 miles away. The most common route involves taking **U.S. Route 22 West**, a major highway that connects Indiana County to the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. The drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This long commute can be exhausting for patients already battling the physical and emotional toll of cancer. The further travel distance and time commitment significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score," as it increases the burden on patients and their caregivers.

Public **transportation** options in Oliveburg are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is not comprehensive. There is no direct route from Oliveburg to IRMC or Pittsburgh. The ICTA system is not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients, and the limited hours of operation may not align with appointment schedules. While some buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts, the overall lack of accessibility and the need for multiple transfers make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many patients.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Oliveburg. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make these services prohibitively expensive for patients with limited incomes. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-share services is not guaranteed, and patients may face difficulties securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges. The unpredictable nature of ride-share availability adds to the uncertainty and stress associated with accessing **healthcare access**.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar Ambulance, offer a more reliable option for patients who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. This financial burden can further exacerbate the challenges faced by patients, particularly those with limited financial resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Oliveburg residents is therefore significantly impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options. The drive times to IRMC and Pittsburgh, the lack of reliable public transit, the variable availability of ride-share services, and the cost of medical **transportation** all contribute to a lower score. This lower score translates to reduced **healthcare access** and potentially poorer health outcomes for lung cancer patients.

For someone **moving to Oliveburg**, understanding these **transportation** challenges is essential. It is crucial to assess the availability of personal vehicles, the financial resources to cover **transportation** costs, and the potential need for assistance from family, friends, or community support services. Exploring all available options, including volunteer driver programs, patient assistance programs, and financial aid for **transportation**, is critical to ensuring timely and consistent access to care.

In conclusion, while Oliveburg offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the limitations in **transportation** options present a significant hurdle for lung cancer patients seeking **healthcare access**. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the need for improved public transit, increased ride-share availability, and expanded access to affordable medical **transportation** services. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving the quality of life and health outcomes for residents of 15764 facing the difficult journey of battling lung cancer. The ability to navigate these challenges, and the support systems in place, will ultimately determine the success of patients in accessing the care they need.