15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.60 percent of residents in 15772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 6.98 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rossiter, PA (ZIP Code 15772)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is more than just a physical trip. It's a crucial element of care, influencing treatment adherence, mental well-being, and ultimately, the quality of life. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Rossiter, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15772), evaluating transportation options and healthcare access, vital considerations for anyone contemplating a move to this rural community.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is a composite metric, weighing drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transportation against the backdrop of available oncology services. A higher score reflects better access, while a lower score signals potential challenges in navigating the healthcare landscape.

Rossiter, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's rolling hills, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. This geographic reality significantly impacts healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Rossiter to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 119 and U.S. Route 219. Indiana Hospital, the closest major medical center, is approximately 15 miles away, a drive that typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey is generally straightforward, but winter weather can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting timely access to treatment.

Specialized cancer centers, offering comprehensive oncology services, are further afield. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a renowned facility, is a considerable 80-mile drive, translating to a travel time of roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This long commute necessitates careful planning for appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and radiation therapy, placing a significant burden on patients and their caregivers.

Another option is the Geisinger Cancer Institute in Danville, roughly 120 miles away, a drive that could take up to 2.5 hours. The sheer distance to these specialized centers highlights the critical role of reliable transportation in managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Rossiter are extremely limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and they are not designed to meet the specific needs of cancer patients. Service to healthcare facilities is available, but the routes are often circuitous, adding significant travel time.

Furthermore, ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on ICTA buses, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations. However, the limited service frequency and the lack of direct routes to specialized cancer centers render public transit an impractical option for many lung cancer patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rossiter area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing is therefore questionable for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable solution. Companies like FirstLight Home Care and Amada Senior Care provide transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. However, these services come at a cost, and the financial burden can be significant.

**Healthcare Access and Available Services:**

Indiana Hospital offers a range of cancer services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, the availability of specialized oncology services, such as advanced surgical procedures and clinical trials, may be limited. Patients may need to travel to larger cancer centers, such as UPMC Hillman or Geisinger, for comprehensive care.

The proximity of Indiana Hospital is a significant advantage, offering immediate access to essential treatments. However, the need to travel to larger facilities for specialized care introduces complexities in transportation planning and financial considerations.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" for Rossiter (15772):**

Based on the analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Rossiter, PA (15772) is moderate. The proximity of Indiana Hospital provides convenient access to essential cancer treatments. However, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the long distances to specialized cancer centers create significant transportation challenges.

The score is further impacted by the potential financial burden of medical transportation services and the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing options. The score reflects the need for careful planning, financial resources, and a strong support network to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively.

**Considerations for Moving to Rossiter:**

For individuals considering a move to Rossiter, PA (15772), the "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of assessing transportation needs and healthcare access. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the available healthcare services, transportation options, and the potential impact on their quality of life.

The decision to move to Rossiter should involve a thorough understanding of the transportation challenges and the need for proactive planning. This includes identifying reliable transportation options, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and exploring available support services.

**Conclusion:**

The journey to healthcare in Rossiter, PA (15772), presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity of Indiana Hospital offers immediate access to essential treatments, the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized cancer centers necessitate careful planning and a proactive approach.

Understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" allows potential residents to make informed decisions, ensuring they can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and receive the necessary care. The success of a lung cancer patient in Rossiter hinges on the availability of reliable transportation, a supportive community, and a commitment to proactive healthcare management. This underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access, especially in a rural setting.