15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.45 percent of residents in 15773 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 27.04 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Benedict, PA (ZIP Code 15773)

The air in Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania, carries the scent of the Allegheny Mountains, a promise of clean living and rural tranquility. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic landscape presents a unique challenge: navigating the complex world of healthcare access. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15773, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Saint Benedict, as efficient transportation is inextricably linked to successful cancer treatment.

The central issue, of course, is healthcare access. Timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are critical for lung cancer patients. This requires reliable transportation to medical facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation in this rural area. The primary artery for travel is **U.S. Route 219**, a north-south highway that serves as the backbone of the region. Residents of Saint Benedict can access this highway easily, providing a direct route to larger towns and cities offering specialized medical care. The drive time to **DuBois Regional Medical Center**, the closest major hospital with oncology services, is approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code. This is generally considered manageable, although patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments may find this commute challenging on a daily basis.

Smaller roads, such as **State Route 453** and **State Route 553**, provide access to nearby towns and local medical offices. These routes, while shorter, can be winding and may experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions. During winter months, snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks, particularly for those with compromised health.

Public transportation options in Saint Benedict are limited. The **Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA)** provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population. Public transit is not specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients. The availability of routes within ZIP Code 15773 is sparse, and the frequency of service is limited, making it an impractical option for most medical appointments. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the lack of frequent service and the potential for long travel times make it less than ideal.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the DuBois area, but their presence in Saint Benedict itself is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the demand, and the availability of drivers. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky. The cost can also be a significant burden for patients already facing substantial medical expenses.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of transportation. Several companies operate in the region, including **AMR (American Medical Response)** and local ambulance services. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. While these options are available, they can be expensive and require pre-booking, which may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or unforeseen complications.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also needs to consider the location of specialized cancer treatment centers. **UPMC Hillman Cancer Center** in Pittsburgh, a highly regarded facility, is approximately a two-hour drive from Saint Benedict via **U.S. Route 219** and **I-80 West**. This longer commute adds to the challenges faced by patients needing specialized care. The need for overnight stays and the associated costs can also be a significant factor.

Beyond the immediate area, the availability of support services is crucial. The **American Cancer Society** and other organizations offer transportation assistance programs, but these often have eligibility requirements and may not cover all medical appointments. Local volunteer driver programs may also be available, but their capacity is often limited.

For individuals considering moving to Saint Benedict, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of having a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services underscore the need for alternative transportation plans. Careful consideration of the distance to specialized cancer centers and the availability of medical transport services is also necessary.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15773 reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the drive to DuBois Regional Medical Center is manageable, the lack of robust public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the potential costs of medical transport services present significant obstacles for lung cancer patients. While the beauty of Saint Benedict and its surroundings may be alluring, anyone considering a move to this area must meticulously evaluate their transportation needs to ensure they can effectively navigate the healthcare system and receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The need for reliable transportation is paramount, and the ability to secure it is a vital component of a successful fight against lung cancer.