15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15845, Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.47 percent of residents in 15845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Johnsonburg, PA (ZIP Code 15845)

The air hangs heavy in the lungs, a metaphorical weight mirroring the practical challenges of navigating healthcare access in Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15845). This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape, a critical factor in determining the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Johnsonburg, as their healthcare needs must be factored into the decision.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. These elements, interwoven, paint a picture of the accessibility challenges and opportunities facing residents. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the logistical hurdles one might encounter when seeking healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The primary hurdle in Johnsonburg is its relative isolation. The town is nestled in a rural region, meaning that healthcare access is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The most direct route for accessing specialized medical care often involves driving. Residents typically utilize Pennsylvania Route 219, a major north-south artery, to reach larger towns and cities with advanced medical facilities.

Driving to DuBois, approximately 20 miles south, takes around 30 minutes via PA-219 and US-219. DuBois Regional Medical Center offers a range of services, including oncology, potentially serving as a first point of contact for lung cancer concerns. The drive, while manageable, requires careful consideration of weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters. Snow and ice can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Further afield, the city of Johnstown, roughly 80 miles south via PA-219 and US-22, represents a more comprehensive healthcare hub. The drive, typically taking about an hour and 45 minutes, offers access to specialized cancer centers and a broader range of treatment options. However, the longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Heading east, the city of Williamsport, approximately 100 miles away, is another option. The journey, taking around two hours via PA-144 and US-220, provides access to additional healthcare resources. This extended drive time emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment, as delays in accessing care can be detrimental.

Public transportation options within Johnsonburg are extremely limited. The primary form of public transit is the Elk County Council on the Arts and the Elk County Transit Authority. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is crucial for those reliant on public transportation. However, the frequency of service and the coverage area are likely to be restricted, making it challenging to rely solely on these services for regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Johnsonburg. The rural nature of the area and the relatively low population density could affect the presence and responsiveness of these services. Residents should not assume that ride-sharing is a readily available option and should plan accordingly, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are crucial. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services are essential resources. These services, often equipped with specialized vehicles and trained personnel, provide a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other forms of transportation. Inquiring about insurance coverage for medical transport is vital.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Johnsonburg, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential scarcity of ride-sharing services create a complex landscape. While medical transport services offer a critical solution, their availability and cost should be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Johnsonburg, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. This includes researching the specific medical facilities available, the drive times to those facilities, and the availability of transportation alternatives.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in lung cancer cases. This underscores the importance of proactive healthcare planning. Residents should establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area and understand the referral pathways to specialists.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It changes based on individual circumstances, healthcare needs, and the evolving transportation landscape. Understanding the existing challenges and planning accordingly is key to ensuring timely and effective healthcare access in Johnsonburg. This is especially important for those who might be considering a move to the area, as it will help them make an informed decision about their healthcare options.