15823, Brockport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15823, Brockport, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.33 percent of residents in 15823 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 15.42 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 15823

The air hangs crisp and clean in Brockport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15823), a small community nestled amidst the rolling hills of Clearfield County. However, the beauty of the landscape doesn't erase the ever-present specter of health concerns, particularly lung cancer. Early detection and effective treatment are paramount, making **healthcare access** a critical consideration for residents and those contemplating **moving to Brockport**. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential medical facilities for diagnosis and treatment, offering a practical guide for navigating the healthcare landscape.

Brockport, like many rural communities, faces challenges in **healthcare access**. Distance, limited public transportation, and the availability of specialized medical services significantly impact the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate care. This score considers these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment.

The foundation of our score rests on drive times. The primary route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 120, a winding two-lane highway that connects Brockport to Clearfield and beyond. The drive to Penn Highlands Clearfield, a major healthcare provider, is approximately 20 to 25 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This facility offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, oncology, and pulmonology, essential for lung cancer care.

Further afield, the drive to UPMC Altoona, a more comprehensive cancer center, requires a journey of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, primarily via Interstate 80 and US Route 220. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for those requiring frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The same holds true for the drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, which is about a 2-hour and 30-minute drive, primarily via Interstate 80. These longer travel times can present significant obstacles, especially for patients experiencing fatigue or other side effects from treatment.

Public transportation options in 15823 are limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily focusing on local errands and limited connections to larger towns. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a concern. While CCATA strives to provide accessible vehicles, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. The lack of robust public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. This further emphasizes the need for reliable **transportation** options.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with **transportation**. Companies like LifeFleet and AMR (American Medical Response) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including stretcher and wheelchair services. These services are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or utilize other forms of **transportation**. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak demand.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors, assigning points based on the following criteria:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Oncology Center:** Shorter drive times receive higher scores, reflecting greater ease of access.
* **Availability of Public Transportation:** The presence of reliable and accessible public **transportation** increases the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Consistent and affordable ride-sharing options contribute positively.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability and affordability of medical **transportation** services are factored in.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The extent to which **transportation** options are accessible to individuals with disabilities is assessed.

Based on this assessment, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Brockport (15823) is moderate. The relatively short drive to Penn Highlands Clearfield provides a crucial advantage. However, the limited public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services present significant challenges. The longer drive times to more specialized cancer centers like UPMC Altoona and Geisinger Medical Center further impact the score.

For individuals **moving to Brockport**, a thorough understanding of these **transportation** challenges is vital. Careful consideration should be given to the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** Owning a reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensuring adequate health insurance coverage, including **transportation** benefits, is crucial.
* **Support Network:** Establishing a support network of family, friends, or community organizations to assist with **transportation** needs can be invaluable.
* **Pre-Planning:** Planning medical appointments in advance and coordinating **transportation** well ahead of time is essential.
* **Exploring Telehealth:** Utilizing telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments can reduce the need for frequent travel.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Brockport. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and community support in navigating the challenges of **healthcare access**. While the beauty of Brockport and its surrounding areas are undeniable, residents and prospective residents must carefully consider the practical realities of accessing essential medical services, especially those related to a serious illness like lung cancer. This score emphasizes the need for continued efforts to improve **transportation** options and enhance **healthcare access** for all residents, ensuring that the community remains a supportive and healthy place to live.