15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15901, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.05 percent of residents in 15901 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 1.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15901

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It’s not simply about the medical expertise available; it's also about the accessibility of that care. For residents of ZIP Code 15901, encompassing the heart of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, this accessibility is heavily influenced by the local transportation landscape. This write-up aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer patients, and those considering moving to Johnstown.

The 15901 ZIP code, nestled within Cambria County, presents a unique challenge. While offering the charm of a smaller city, its location in the Laurel Highlands necessitates reliance on specific transportation modes. The primary roadways shaping the commute are US Route 219, a crucial north-south artery, and the historic US Route 22, connecting Johnstown eastward. Pennsylvania Route 56, locally known as the "Scalp Level Road," provides a vital east-west connection.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. For lung cancer patients, however, this seemingly simple option can be fraught with difficulties. The physical toll of the disease, coupled with potential side effects of treatment, can make driving a significant burden. Drive times to the primary healthcare facilities in the area, namely Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Altoona, are crucial considerations.

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, located within the 15901 ZIP code, offers comprehensive cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy. The drive time from various points within the ZIP code is generally manageable, typically under 15 minutes. However, this assumes ideal traffic conditions, which are not always guaranteed, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

UPMC Altoona, approximately 45 miles east via US Route 22, provides advanced cancer treatment options, including specialized surgical procedures and clinical trials. The drive time to UPMC Altoona can range from one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, a considerable distance for patients undergoing treatment. This extended travel time can exacerbate fatigue and anxiety, impacting the overall patient experience.

Public transportation, while present, presents limitations. The Greater Johnstown Transportation Company (GJTC) operates a bus system, offering routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. However, the system’s coverage is not extensive, and service frequency may be limited, particularly on evenings and weekends. For individuals with lung cancer, the need for frequent appointments and the potential for unpredictable treatment schedules can make relying solely on public transit challenging.

The GJTC does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the inherent delays and potential for crowded buses can still pose difficulties for those with mobility issues or weakened immune systems. Furthermore, the lack of direct routes to some medical facilities necessitates transfers, adding to the travel time and complexity.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Johnstown, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. This cost can be a barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the Johnstown area. These services often provide specialized assistance, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, availability and cost vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient. Researching and securing medical transportation in advance is crucial for ensuring reliable access to care.

The Lung Cancer Score for 15901 reflects the interplay of these factors. The score will vary depending on individual circumstances, including the stage of the disease, the treatment plan, and the patient's physical condition and financial resources. The score would be lower for those relying on public transportation or ride-sharing, particularly if they require frequent appointments or have limited mobility. The score would be higher for those with access to a personal vehicle and the ability to drive, or those with access to reliable medical transportation.

The decision to move to Johnstown, or any location, is multifaceted. For individuals with or at risk for lung cancer, healthcare access must be a primary consideration. The transportation infrastructure, including the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, will significantly impact the quality of life and the ability to receive timely and effective care.

The Lung Cancer Score for 15901 is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be continuously evaluated based on individual needs and the evolving healthcare landscape. This includes the potential for advancements in transportation technology, such as increased ride-sharing availability or the expansion of public transit routes.

For those considering moving to Johnstown, a thorough investigation of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial. This includes researching the availability of oncology services, the drive times to treatment centers, the reliability of public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation. This proactive approach will help individuals make informed decisions and ensure they have the resources necessary to navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of 15901, and those considering making it their home, have the best possible access to the care they need. This requires a collaborative effort, involving healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations, to create a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The success of this endeavor hinges on the ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring that transportation infrastructure effectively supports the healthcare needs of the community.