15779, Torrance, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15779, Torrance, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.00 percent of residents in 15779 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 39.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 15779

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and the burden of treatment is often compounded by challenges in accessing care. This analysis focuses on the vital aspect of **transportation** within ZIP Code 15779, providing a “Lung Cancer Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty individuals face in reaching essential **healthcare access**. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a practical guide for residents and those considering **moving to Torrance**, or its surrounding areas, seeking optimal healthcare proximity.

ZIP Code 15779, likely encompassing a rural or semi-rural area, presents inherent challenges in healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the accessibility of oncology services, radiation therapy centers, and diagnostic facilities. This score is not a definitive medical assessment but a tool to understand the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries of **transportation** in and around 15779 are crucial. The analysis considers drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, taking into account typical traffic patterns. The primary route to consider might be the US-119, a major thoroughfare that could lead to regional hospitals. Secondary routes, such as local roads and state highways, will be assessed for their potential to offer alternative pathways, considering their impact on travel time. These roads will be assessed for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, which can significantly impact the ability to reach time-sensitive appointments.

The quality of road surfaces, particularly during inclement weather, is a critical factor. Poor road conditions, such as potholes or ice, can hinder travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment who may have physical limitations. The Lung Cancer Score will account for these factors, reflecting the potential for delays and the impact on patients' well-being.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in 15779 are likely limited, which is a common challenge in rural areas. The analysis will investigate the availability of bus routes, assessing their frequency, coverage, and accessibility features. The presence of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. If bus routes are available, the analysis will examine the routes and numbers, noting the frequency of service and the estimated travel times to healthcare facilities.

The availability of park-and-ride facilities, where individuals can park their cars and transfer to public **transportation**, will be considered. These facilities can potentially reduce travel time and stress for patients. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the overall practicality of using public transit, considering its limitations and the potential impact on patients' schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Availability**

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has provided an alternative to traditional **transportation**. The analysis will assess the availability of these services in 15779, noting the typical wait times and the cost of rides to healthcare facilities. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in rural areas can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, will be investigated. These services, often provided by companies like First Transit or local ambulance services, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. The analysis will assess the availability of medical **transportation** in 15779, noting the types of services offered, the costs, and the areas they serve. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the reliability and affordability of these services, recognizing their importance for patients who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transit.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to determine the accessibility of healthcare facilities that provide lung cancer treatment. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the proximity of these facilities to 15779, including hospitals with oncology departments, radiation therapy centers, and diagnostic imaging centers. The analysis will focus on the following factors:

* **Distance:** The physical distance from 15779 to the nearest healthcare facilities.
* **Drive Time:** The estimated travel time by car, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Time:** The estimated travel time using public transit, including wait times and transfers.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** The availability, cost, and types of medical transport services.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialized services, such as support groups, palliative care, and clinical trials. These services are essential for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment, and their accessibility will impact the overall Lung Cancer Score.

**Scoring and Interpretation**

The Lung Cancer Score will be presented on a scale, ranging from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most difficult access and 10 representing the easiest. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor contributing to the overall score. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining **healthcare access**.

The interpretation of the Lung Cancer Score will be as follows:

* **1-3:** Very Limited Access. Significant challenges in reaching healthcare facilities.
* **4-6:** Limited Access. Some challenges in reaching healthcare facilities.
* **7-8:** Moderate Access. Reasonable access to healthcare facilities.
* **9-10:** Excellent Access. Easy and convenient access to healthcare facilities.

The Lung Cancer Score is designed to provide a practical assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in 15779 seeking lung cancer treatment. The score will be accompanied by recommendations for improving **healthcare access**, such as advocating for increased public transit services, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the development of medical **transportation** options.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score offers a starting point for assessing the realities of **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 15779. The score will guide individuals in making informed decisions about their care, and it will provide valuable insights for those considering **moving to Torrance** or its surrounding areas. By understanding the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation**, individuals can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and focus on what matters most: their health and well-being. The analysis will highlight the critical need for improved **transportation** options and the importance of supporting patients in their journey towards recovery.