15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.33 percent of residents in 15853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 8.09 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ridgway, PA (ZIP Code 15853)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, can be a daunting challenge. In the scenic, yet geographically isolated, community of Ridgway, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15853), this challenge is amplified. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the multifaceted landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This is especially critical for individuals considering **moving to Ridgway**, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

Ridgway, nestled in Elk County, presents unique **transportation** considerations. The primary artery is the historic Route 219, a north-south thoroughfare that connects Ridgway to larger regional hubs. Accessing specialized cancer care often necessitates travel outside the immediate area. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in cities like Erie, approximately 90 miles northwest, or State College, roughly 120 miles southeast.

The drive to Erie via Route 219 can be completed in approximately one hour and forty-five minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. However, winter weather, common in this region, can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey. Route 219, though generally well-maintained, is a two-lane highway, and its winding nature can contribute to driver fatigue, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

The journey to State College, utilizing Route 219 and then transitioning onto Interstate 80 East, is a longer commitment. Expect a drive time of around two hours, assuming good weather and moderate traffic. Interstate 80, a major east-west artery, offers a smoother, higher-speed experience compared to Route 219. However, the distance remains a considerable factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options within Elk County are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts (ECCOTA) provides a demand-response service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service, operating within the county, might offer some assistance for local appointments, it's unlikely to be a viable solution for the longer distances required for specialized cancer care. Information on specific route numbers and ADA accessibility features is difficult to ascertain definitively, as the service is primarily a dial-a-ride model.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ridgway, but their reliability and availability are variable. The presence of these services is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas, and wait times can be lengthy. The cost of ride-share, especially for long-distance trips to Erie or State College, can be substantial, posing a financial burden on patients.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several national and regional companies operate in Pennsylvania, including companies like LogistiCare and ModivCare. These services typically require pre-booking and may have eligibility requirements, such as Medicaid or Medicare coverage. The availability of these services in Ridgway and their specific coverage areas should be thoroughly investigated.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ridgway, therefore, is significantly influenced by the geographic isolation and limited **transportation** infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potentially challenging weather conditions, adds complexity to **healthcare access**. The availability of public **transportation** is severely restricted, and the reliability and cost of ride-share services are concerns.

For individuals considering **moving to Ridgway**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities is crucial. The ability to drive safely and comfortably, or the financial resources to utilize ride-share or medical **transportation**, is paramount. Understanding the potential travel times, the impact of weather, and the availability of support services is essential for making an informed decision.

The nearest hospital, Penn Highlands Elk, located in St. Marys, PA, provides some local medical services. However, for specialized cancer care, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical procedures, patients must travel to larger regional centers. This necessitates careful planning, coordination, and a realistic assessment of the challenges involved in accessing these vital services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ridgway reflects the inherent difficulties in accessing specialized cancer care. While the community itself offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the **transportation** limitations present a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. Individuals considering **moving to Ridgway** should carefully weigh these factors, ensuring they have a robust plan for managing their healthcare needs, including the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape. The journey to health is a long one, and in Ridgway, it requires careful planning and resourcefulness.