15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15936, Hooversville, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.90 percent of residents in 15936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hooversville (ZIP Code 15936)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift and reliable healthcare access. For residents of Hooversville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15936), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care presents a unique set of transportation challenges. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, evaluating the accessibility of critical healthcare services, considering the limitations and opportunities presented by its location. We will delve into the nuances of transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of the realities faced by those seeking care.

Hooversville, nestled in the heart of Somerset County, is a rural community. The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score here is the availability and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. The nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Johnstown, roughly 15 miles away, and in Somerset, approximately 20 miles distant. This geographical reality immediately introduces a barrier to care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The most common method of transportation is personal vehicle. Residents of Hooversville primarily rely on Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, to access healthcare. The drive to Johnstown, via Route 30 and then Route 219, typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The journey to Somerset, also via Route 30, is a similar timeframe. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can become treacherous during winter months, significantly impacting access.

The potential for delays is a crucial factor. A sudden snowstorm or a traffic accident on Route 30 can drastically extend travel times, delaying potentially life-saving treatment. The Lung Cancer Score must account for these variables, recognizing that the convenience of driving is not always guaranteed. The condition of local roads, including smaller arteries connecting Hooversville to Route 30, also plays a role. Potholes and inadequate lighting can exacerbate the challenges, especially for those with mobility limitations or those driving at night.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Hooversville are exceedingly limited. The Greater Johnstown Transportation Authority (GJTA) provides some service within the Johnstown area, but its reach does not extend directly into Hooversville. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to a GJTA stop, adding another layer of complexity and time to their journey.

The GJTA buses, while offering a potentially affordable option, may not be a practical solution for individuals with advanced lung cancer or those undergoing treatment. The extended travel times, the need for transfers, and the potential for exposure to illness on public transit are all significant considerations. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a positive factor, ensuring accessibility for those with disabilities, but the overall limitations of the system significantly diminish its impact on the Lung Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Specialized Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown and Somerset areas, but their presence in Hooversville is less consistent. The availability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially for frequent trips required for treatment.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. Companies like LifeFleet and MedStar Medical Transport are among those operating in the region. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less accessible for urgent needs.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Hooversville (ZIP Code 15936) is a complex calculation, considering multiple factors. The primary determinants are the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the impact of weather and road conditions.

The score would be negatively impacted by the lack of readily available public transportation and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, coupled with their limited availability, also contributes to a lower score. The score would be slightly improved by the proximity to Johnstown and Somerset, offering multiple healthcare options.

**Moving to Hooversville: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk, the transportation challenges in Hooversville must be carefully considered. While the community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor. Those contemplating a move to Hooversville should thoroughly investigate the availability of transportation options, including the potential for relying on family, friends, or specialized medical transport services.

Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the decision-making process. This includes identifying the closest hospitals with comprehensive lung cancer care, understanding the costs associated with transportation, and developing contingency plans for unexpected delays or emergencies. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that access to healthcare is not just about proximity, but also about the ability to navigate the complexities of transportation.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The journey to healthcare for lung cancer patients in Hooversville is often a challenging one. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment. Improving the Lung Cancer Score would require efforts to enhance public transportation options, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and potentially subsidize medical transport for those in need.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that residents of Hooversville have timely and reliable access to the life-saving care they need. This requires a multifaceted approach, addressing the specific transportation challenges of this rural community and prioritizing the health and well-being of its residents. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a vital tool for evaluating and improving healthcare access in Hooversville, making it a more supportive and accessible place for those battling this devastating disease.