15801, Du Bois, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15801, Du Bois, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.48 percent of residents in 15801 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 17.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Du Bois, PA (ZIP Code 15801)

Considering a move to Du Bois, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15801)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," assessing the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare, a crucial factor for anyone, especially those with a history of smoking or residing in areas with environmental risk factors. This score, based on transportation options, aims to illuminate the ease or difficulty of reaching diagnostic and treatment facilities.

Du Bois, nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, presents a unique landscape when it comes to healthcare access. The area's semi-rural nature significantly impacts transportation options, making the journey to medical facilities a critical consideration. This write-up delves into the available modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, to determine the feasibility of receiving timely and efficient lung cancer care.

The primary healthcare provider in the area is Penn Highlands DuBois, a comprehensive facility offering a range of services, including oncology. However, the availability of specialized care and the ease of access to it are paramount. The Lung Cancer Score considers the time and effort required to reach Penn Highlands DuBois and other relevant facilities, factoring in the limitations and advantages of each transportation method.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Care**

For many residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. From various points within ZIP Code 15801, reaching Penn Highlands DuBois is generally straightforward. The hospital is conveniently located, but drive times can vary depending on the origin point and traffic conditions.

From the heart of Du Bois, a drive to Penn Highlands DuBois usually takes approximately 5-10 minutes. The route primarily involves navigating local roads and avenues, with minimal congestion. Heading east or west of the city, the drive time may increase to 15-20 minutes, depending on the specific location and the roads used.

For those residing in more rural areas, such as areas off of Interstate 80, the drive time can extend significantly. Traveling from Clearfield, for example, requires using Interstate 80 East and then Route 255 North, which could take around 30-40 minutes, contingent on traffic. Similarly, residents in the surrounding townships, such as Sandy Township or Brady Township, will typically utilize state routes like Route 255 or Route 119 to reach the hospital.

The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also influence drive times. Snow and ice in the winter months can make travel challenging, potentially delaying appointments and treatments. Therefore, considering the reliability of a personal vehicle and the ability to navigate challenging road conditions is vital.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Du Bois is limited. The DuBois Area Transportation Authority (DATA) operates a bus service, but it primarily serves the immediate Du Bois area, offering limited routes and schedules. This can pose a significant challenge for those seeking access to healthcare.

The DATA bus routes may not directly serve all areas within ZIP Code 15801, and the frequency of service may be insufficient for timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability and accessibility of these features is crucial.

For individuals reliant on public transportation, the journey to Penn Highlands DuBois could involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. This can be particularly burdensome for those undergoing cancer treatment, which often requires frequent visits.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Du Bois area. However, their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. It is essential to research the availability, cost, and insurance coverage of these services. Understanding the specific requirements for medical transport, such as the need for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, is also critical.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 15801 reflects the ease of access to lung cancer-related healthcare, incorporating the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time required to reach Penn Highlands DuBois and other relevant facilities by personal vehicle.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of DATA bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of medical transport services.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating greater accessibility. This score aims to provide a clear and concise assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking lung cancer care in Du Bois.

**Moving to Du Bois: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering moving to Du Bois, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare.

Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options available. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the availability of medical transport services are critical considerations.

While Du Bois offers a welcoming community and a range of amenities, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for extended drive times to specialized care should be carefully weighed. Planning ahead and exploring all available transportation options is essential to ensure timely access to healthcare.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a tool to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare access in Du Bois. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities, residents can proactively plan for their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the care they deserve.