15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15928, Davidsville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.92 percent of residents in 15928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 15928**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is fraught with complexities. Beyond the medical challenges, the accessibility of timely and specialized care hinges on a critical factor: transportation. This report analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 15928 (Davidsville, PA), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, particularly for those requiring lung cancer treatment. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," a metric reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services.

Davidsville, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, necessitates a deep dive into the available modes of transportation. We'll explore the drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a clear picture of healthcare access for residents. This assessment will be crucial for anyone considering moving to Davidsville, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

**Drive Times: The Road to Treatment**

For many residents of 15928, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is by personal vehicle. The most direct route to the nearest major medical center, UPMC Altoona, involves navigating the local road network. The drive typically begins on PA-56, also known as the Johnstown Expressway, a crucial artery for accessing nearby cities. The journey then merges onto US-22, a major highway connecting Davidsville to Altoona.

The drive time to UPMC Altoona, a significant healthcare provider with specialized lung cancer services, can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care. Other healthcare facilities, such as Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, are accessible via PA-56, but the drive time is approximately 30 minutes, offering an alternative for some services.

For specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further afield. Pittsburgh, a major metropolitan area with comprehensive cancer centers, is approximately a two-hour drive via US-22 and I-76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike). This extended travel time necessitates careful planning and coordination, especially for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 15928 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving Johnstown and surrounding towns. There is no direct public transit route from Davidsville to Altoona or Pittsburgh.

The CCTA does offer some routes that may provide partial access to healthcare facilities. However, the reliance on multiple transfers and extended travel times renders public transit a less viable option for many patients, particularly those undergoing treatment that requires frequent visits. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. The CCTA does offer ADA-compliant services on some routes, but availability should be confirmed in advance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Davidsville area, but their availability and reliability may vary. The rural nature of the region can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients should proactively check the availability of these services before appointments and factor in potential delays.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. Several providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport companies. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant financial burden, and patients should investigate insurance coverage and available financial assistance programs.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15928 is a composite metric, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare services based on transportation factors. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options.

Given the rural setting, the score would likely be moderate, indicating challenges in healthcare access. While UPMC Altoona is within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create barriers. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle face significant hurdles in accessing timely care.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate impact. While the drive to UPMC Altoona is manageable, longer distances to specialized centers in Pittsburgh pose a challenge.
* **Public Transit:** High negative impact. Limited routes and infrequent service significantly restrict access.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate impact. Availability may be inconsistent, and costs can be a factor.
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate positive impact. Provides a vital service but can be expensive.

**Recommendations:**

For residents of 15928, and those considering moving to Davidsville, several strategies can mitigate transportation challenges:

* **Prioritize proximity:** When selecting a healthcare provider, consider facilities within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Explore medical transportation:** Investigate insurance coverage and financial assistance programs for medical transport services.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering potential traffic delays and ride-sharing availability.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives to expand public transportation options in the region.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15928 highlights the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the area offers some options, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. Careful planning, proactive resource utilization, and community advocacy are essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need. The decision to move to Davidsville should involve a thorough assessment of these transportation factors, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.