15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.15 percent of residents in 15857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 1.17 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Marys, PA (ZIP Code 15857)**

The diagnosis of lung cancer is a life-altering event, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Saint Marys, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15857), the accessibility of specialized care is a critical factor in the fight against this disease. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, offering a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. The score will help individuals understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system, particularly when considering a move to Saint Marys.

**The Lung Cancer Score Framework**

Our "Lung Cancer Score" considers several key elements: drive times to major healthcare facilities offering lung cancer treatment, the availability and convenience of public transportation, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. Each element is weighted based on its impact on a patient's ability to access timely and effective care. The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 representing excellent access and 1 representing poor access.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare**

Saint Marys, nestled in the heart of Elk County, presents a unique challenge. While the town itself offers some primary care facilities, specialized lung cancer treatment often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The primary routes for accessing these facilities are crucial.

The closest major medical center with comprehensive cancer care is UPMC Altoona, approximately 80 miles away. Driving time via Interstate 80 East (I-80 E) and US Route 220 South (US-220 S) typically ranges from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey requires careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Another option is Penn Highlands DuBois, about 35 miles south, accessed via Pennsylvania Route 255 South (PA-255 S) and Interstate 80 West (I-80 W). The drive time is significantly shorter, usually taking around 45 minutes. This proximity offers a more convenient option for certain treatments and consultations.

Finally, consider the drive to Erie, Pennsylvania, approximately 100 miles northwest. This journey would take around 2 hours, primarily via Interstate 80 West (I-80 W) and Interstate 79 North (I-79 N). This is a longer trip, but may be necessary depending on the specific needs of the patient.

**Drive Time Score: 3/5** (Reflecting the presence of a closer option, but the reliance on longer drives to more comprehensive care.)

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Saint Marys and the surrounding areas are limited. The Elk County Council on the Arts and the Elk County Transit Authority (ECTA) provide some local bus services, but these are primarily designed for general transportation within the county. There are no direct routes to major cancer centers.

The ECTA operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system may be useful for local appointments, but it is not a practical solution for regular trips to facilities like UPMC Altoona or Penn Highlands DuBois. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

**Public Transit Score: 1/5** (Reflecting the lack of direct routes and the limited scope of the existing system.)

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Saint Marys, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility needs. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport Score: 2/5** (Reflecting the presence of options, but their limitations in terms of cost, reliability, and availability.)

**Overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 15857: 2/5**

The overall score reflects the challenges faced by residents of Saint Marys in accessing specialized lung cancer care. While Penn Highlands DuBois offers a more accessible option, the reliance on longer drives to UPMC Altoona and the limited public transit options pose significant hurdles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some relief, but these options are often expensive and may not always be readily available.

**Implications for Moving to Saint Marys**

For individuals considering moving to Saint Marys, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning. If you have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, it is crucial to assess the accessibility of specialized healthcare services before relocating. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Treatment Centers:** Prioritize locations with shorter drive times to comprehensive cancer centers.
* **Transportation Planning:** Explore the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Support Network:** Build a strong support network of family and friends who can assist with transportation and appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers the cost of medical transportation and treatment at your preferred facilities.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Saint Marys, PA, for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limited access to specialized care presents a significant challenge. By understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative transportation solutions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living arrangements. This "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access and making informed choices, especially when considering moving to Saint Marys. The ability to access timely and effective care is paramount in the fight against lung cancer, and proactive planning is essential for residents of ZIP code 15857.