15778, Timblin, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15778, Timblin, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.96 percent of residents in 15778 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 10.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Timblin, PA (ZIP Code 15778)

The crisp air of Timblin, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15778), whispers promises of rural tranquility. Yet, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity is often shattered by the daunting reality of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation landscape crucial for treatment and survival, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents considering moving to Timblin.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Each factor is weighed to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. A low score indicates significant transportation barriers, while a high score suggests relatively easy access to necessary medical care.

**Drive Times: The Paved Roads to Care**

The primary concern for residents of Timblin is the distance to specialized lung cancer treatment centers. The nearest facilities equipped with comprehensive oncology services are in Indiana, PA, approximately 20 miles away. This journey typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 286 East, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive time of around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Further afield, Pittsburgh, a major hub for advanced cancer care, presents a more substantial undertaking. The most direct route involves taking US Route 119 North to US Route 22 West, a drive of approximately 80-90 miles. This journey, encompassing a mix of rural highways and interstate travel, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The presence of significant congestion around Pittsburgh during rush hour adds to the time commitment.

For those seeking radiation therapy, the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) offers on-site services, significantly reducing travel burdens. However, for specialized treatments like advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, the Pittsburgh hospitals become essential. This underscores the importance of reliable personal transportation for those residing in Timblin.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 15778 are exceedingly limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides some service in the surrounding areas, but routes directly serving Timblin are scarce. The ICTA primarily focuses on connecting Indiana Borough with neighboring communities.

The lack of frequent and direct public transit poses a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The absence of regular bus routes makes attending appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing follow-up care a considerable challenge. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses within the limited ICTA service area is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility impairments.

The absence of robust public transportation creates a significant disparity in healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor for individuals contemplating moving to Timblin and needing consistent access to oncology services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana area, but their presence in Timblin is less certain. The availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be expensive and unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation highlights the vulnerability of patients who lack alternative transportation options. The cost and logistical complexities of these services can create a significant barrier to accessing timely and consistent healthcare.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Timblin, PA**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15778 is considered **moderate**. The proximity to IRMC in Indiana, PA, offers some advantages, particularly for radiation therapy. However, the limited public transportation, uncertain ride-sharing availability, and the longer distances to specialized centers in Pittsburgh present significant challenges.

The score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with reasonable access to IRMC but longer drives to Pittsburgh facilities.
* **Public Transit:** Very limited, creating a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability is uncertain, and reliance can be expensive.
* **Medical Transportation:** Available but can be costly and require advance booking.

**Implications for Moving to Timblin**

Individuals considering moving to Timblin, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount. The lack of reliable public transit, the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transportation necessitate a thorough assessment of transportation options.

It is crucial to factor in the potential for increased travel time, costs, and logistical complexities associated with healthcare access. Prospective residents should also investigate the availability of local support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist in coordinating transportation and navigating the healthcare system.

**Conclusion**

While Timblin offers the allure of rural living, its healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal transportation. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the challenges faced by residents needing specialized cancer care. Individuals considering moving to Timblin must prioritize assessing their transportation needs and making informed decisions about their healthcare access. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for those affected by lung cancer. The journey to healthcare, in this case, underscores the importance of careful planning and proactive resource management.