15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.00 percent of residents in 15905 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15905

The crisp air of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, belies the harsh reality faced by residents battling lung cancer. The very landscape, while beautiful, presents a challenge: navigating the complexities of healthcare access. This write-up, tailored for ZIP code 15905, delves into the crucial element of transportation, a critical factor in a patient’s fight. We will assess the “Lung Cancer Score” for this area, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. This is particularly vital for anyone considering moving to Johnstown or seeking a second opinion.

The journey to healthcare in 15905 begins with the automobile. The primary arteries of this region are the highways. The bustling **Johnstown Expressway (Route 219)** provides a vital link, offering access to hospitals and specialty clinics. Driving times are, however, variable. Peak traffic, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times. Consider a patient needing immediate treatment. The difference between a 15-minute drive and a 45-minute crawl on the Expressway can be life-altering.

**Route 56**, another major thoroughfare, weaves through the city and connects to surrounding communities. This road is crucial for accessing various medical facilities, but again, traffic congestion can be a factor. Smaller roads, such as **Scalp Avenue** and **Moxham Avenue**, serve as feeder routes, but these can be narrow and winding, especially during inclement weather, which is frequent in this region. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation, particularly for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, treatments that often leave patients weakened and vulnerable.

Public transit offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The **Johnstown Area Regional Transportation Authority (JARTA)** operates a bus system within the city limits. While JARTA provides a lifeline for many, the routes are limited, and service frequency can be a barrier. The lack of direct routes to all medical facilities is a significant concern. ADA accessibility is a mandated feature on JARTA buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. However, the reliance on bus schedules, particularly in a region with unpredictable weather, can create delays and exacerbate the stress associated with cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Johnstown. This offers a more flexible option than public transit, allowing patients to schedule rides directly to appointments. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing also adds to the financial burden of cancer treatment, a significant consideration for many patients. The reliability of these services is therefore a key component in the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a specialized solution. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transport, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transportation. However, availability can be limited, and scheduling appointments in advance is usually required. The cost of these services, which may or may not be covered by insurance, is another factor impacting the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The distance to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers is another critical factor. **Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center**, located within Johnstown, offers a range of cancer services, including radiation oncology and chemotherapy. **Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber**, while slightly further afield, provides specialized cancer care. The drive times to these facilities are relatively manageable for many residents of 15905, but the distance still necessitates reliable transportation.

The Lung Cancer Score for 15905 is therefore a complex calculation, weighing the accessibility of various transportation options against the distance to essential medical facilities. The score is not merely about miles; it is about the practical challenges faced by patients. The availability of private vehicles, the reliability of public transit, the responsiveness of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport all contribute to the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Johnstown, understanding this score is paramount. It is not enough to simply know the location of hospitals and clinics. One must also assess the practicalities of reaching those facilities. The ability to easily access medical care is a crucial factor in the quality of life for those battling lung cancer. The challenges of navigating the transportation landscape can compound the physical and emotional strain of the disease.

The Lung Cancer Score is also a call to action. It highlights areas where improvements are needed. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly routes that directly serve medical facilities, could significantly improve healthcare access. Enhancements to ride-sharing services, such as increased driver availability, would also be beneficial. Furthermore, expanding the availability of affordable medical transportation services is crucial.

The healthcare system in Johnstown, like any other, is not perfect. However, the community has a strong foundation of medical expertise. By acknowledging the challenges of transportation, and working to improve the accessibility of medical care, the region can strive to provide the best possible outcomes for patients battling lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is a tool for understanding, evaluating, and ultimately, improving the lives of those affected by this devastating disease. It is a measure of the community’s commitment to ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier, but a bridge to healing.