15851, Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15851, Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.38 percent of residents in 15851 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 27.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reynoldsville, PA (ZIP Code 15851)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of crisp mountain breezes in Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, a town nestled in the heart of Jefferson County. For those considering a move to this charming community, particularly those with a heightened concern for their respiratory health, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This Lung Cancer Score write-up for ZIP code 15851 provides a detailed assessment of transportation options, crucial for navigating the journey to potentially life-saving medical care.

The very nature of Reynoldsville, a town embracing its small-town character, dictates the primary mode of transportation: the personal vehicle. The landscape, punctuated by rolling hills and winding roads, presents a challenge for alternative transportation. This is especially true when considering the urgency inherent in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The ability to swiftly reach medical facilities becomes a critical factor in the quality of life and the potential for positive outcomes.

The primary artery connecting Reynoldsville to more extensive healthcare resources is Interstate 80 (I-80). This major east-west thoroughfare provides a direct route to larger medical centers in Clearfield and DuBois. The drive to Penn Highlands DuBois, a regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 30-minute journey. This drive typically involves taking PA-119 South to I-80 West. The interstate offers a relatively smooth and efficient ride, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can add precious minutes to the commute.

Alternatively, the drive to UPMC Altoona, a more comprehensive medical center, is approximately an hour and 45 minutes. This longer journey necessitates navigating I-80 East to I-99 South. This route, while offering a wider array of specialized services, increases the time spent in transit, potentially impacting treatment timelines. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can further complicate these journeys.

Local roads, such as PA-119 and PA-950, serve as feeder routes, connecting Reynoldsville to the interstate and surrounding towns. These roads, while scenic, are often narrower and more susceptible to weather-related delays. The presence of sharp turns and varying speed limits necessitates careful driving. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the need for reliable transportation for those moving to Reynoldsville.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 15851 are limited. Jefferson County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints. The absence of readily available public transportation exacerbates healthcare access challenges, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or emergency care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also pose a financial burden, particularly for those on fixed incomes or facing significant medical expenses. The reliability of ride-sharing services is another factor to consider, as delays or cancellations can disrupt critical medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local providers and regional networks. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required. Researching these options is essential for those considering a move to Reynoldsville and seeking healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score for Reynoldsville (ZIP code 15851) highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and potentially unreliable ride-sharing options, presents challenges for those seeking timely and consistent medical care. The drive times to regional medical centers, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic, weather conditions, and road infrastructure.

For individuals considering a move to Reynoldsville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Understanding the drive times to various medical facilities, exploring the availability of medical transportation services, and considering the potential limitations of ride-sharing are all essential steps. The decision to move to Reynoldsville should be informed by a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access.

The absence of readily available public transportation creates a significant barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle. This can disproportionately affect elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The community would benefit from exploring options to improve healthcare access, such as supporting the expansion of medical transportation services or advocating for the development of a limited public transit system.

The journey to healthcare in Reynoldsville is a journey defined by the need for reliable transportation. The Lung Cancer Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the available options. For those seeking a life in this quaint Pennsylvania town, careful consideration of transportation is not just a logistical concern; it is a matter of health and well-being. Moving to Reynoldsville means embracing the beauty of the region while acknowledging the unique challenges of healthcare access.