Lung Cancer Score

15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.67 percent of residents in 15776 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 6.87 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania

Lung Cancer Score 60
People Score 92
Provider Score 39
Hospital Score 55
Travel Score 20

Closest Hospital - PUNXSUTAWNEY AREA HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 15776 Sprankle Mills Pennsylvania
No Cars 0.00 0.00 5.04
1 Car 26.67 26.67 21.45
2 Cars 73.33 73.33 41.29
3 or More Cars 0.00 0.00 32.22

Vehicular Access in 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sprankle Mills (ZIP Code 15776)

The crisp air of Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15776), offers a tranquil backdrop to life. However, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, demand careful consideration. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the challenges and opportunities in navigating transportation to and from crucial medical appointments, treatment centers, and support services. It considers the available transportation options and their impact on patients and their families, particularly those considering moving to Sprankle Mills or already residing within its borders.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is timely access to care. Early detection and consistent treatment are paramount for improved outcomes. Therefore, the efficiency and reliability of transportation become critical factors. The Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate the landscape of transportation options, highlighting potential barriers and providing insights for informed decision-making.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The heart of Sprankle Mills is interwoven with the threads of its roadways. The primary artery for accessing healthcare is **U.S. Route 119**. This highway connects Sprankle Mills to larger towns and cities, offering a direct route to hospitals and specialist clinics. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.

For instance, a drive to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), approximately 10 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic flow. This route primarily utilizes Route 119. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour.

Traveling further afield to Pittsburgh for specialized treatments at UPMC or Allegheny Health Network hospitals requires a longer journey. The most direct route involves taking **U.S. Route 22** west. This journey, covering approximately 70-80 miles, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic congestion and the final destination within the city.

Smaller roads like **State Route 403** and **State Route 553** provide alternative routes, but these are often less direct and may involve winding country roads, potentially adding time and complexity to the journey. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can also pose a significant challenge.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 15776 are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The **Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA)** provides bus services, but the routes and schedules may not adequately serve the specific needs of lung cancer patients.

ICTA operates several routes, but their frequency and coverage within Sprankle Mills and surrounding areas are limited. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available on ICTA buses, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. However, the limited service hours and potential for long wait times can be problematic, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which often require frequent and timely appointments.

The absence of a dedicated public transportation route directly connecting Sprankle Mills to specialized cancer treatment centers in Pittsburgh further compounds the challenge. Patients relying on public transit would likely need to navigate multiple bus transfers, significantly increasing travel time and potentially adding to the physical and emotional strain of treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Availability in Sprankle Mills may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing during periods of high demand can also make these services unaffordable for some patients.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide a more tailored solution. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may require advance booking.

Companies like **Ambu-Trans** and **First Transit** are examples of NEMT providers that may serve the Sprankle Mills area. However, the specifics of their service area, pricing, and insurance coverage should be carefully investigated.

**Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The transportation challenges outlined above significantly impact healthcare access for lung cancer patients in Sprankle Mills. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create potential barriers to timely and consistent care.

These barriers can lead to delayed appointments, missed treatments, and increased stress for patients and their families. The physical toll of long commutes, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the emotional strain of navigating complex transportation options can negatively affect treatment adherence and overall quality of life.

**Considerations for Moving to Sprankle Mills:**

For individuals considering moving to Sprankle Mills, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of assessing transportation options. The proximity to IRMC is a significant advantage, but the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of traveling to Pittsburgh for specialized care must be carefully considered.

Prospective residents should research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. They should also explore the potential for support from family, friends, or community organizations to assist with transportation needs.

**Recommendations:**

Improving healthcare access for lung cancer patients in Sprankle Mills requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation services, including expanding routes and increasing frequency, would significantly benefit patients. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation options could also alleviate the financial burden.

Furthermore, community initiatives to provide volunteer driver programs or transportation assistance could offer crucial support. Increased awareness of available resources, including NEMT providers and financial assistance programs, is also essential.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape in Sprankle Mills. Continuous monitoring of transportation options, coupled with advocacy for improved services, is crucial to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need. This is especially important for those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

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Health Scores Near 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania

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Health Scores in 15776, Sprankle Mills, Pennsylvania