15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.45 percent of residents in 15938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Altoona with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 15938

The fight against lung cancer demands swift and reliable access to healthcare. In ZIP Code 15938, where the rolling hills of rural Pennsylvania meet the echoes of Johnstown's industrial past, understanding the landscape of transportation is crucial for those facing this formidable disease. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on available transportation methods and their impact on healthcare access. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering a move to the area, perhaps drawn by the allure of a new life, or those already residing here, navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The primary challenge in 15938 is the relative isolation. While the region boasts a strong sense of community, it’s geographically dispersed. This means that healthcare access, especially for specialized treatments like those for lung cancer, is often dependent on reliable transportation. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation modes, recognizing that time is of the essence in cancer care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For many, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The major arteries connecting 15938 to healthcare facilities are crucial. Access to the UPMC hospitals in Johnstown, the closest major medical center, hinges on navigating the winding roads. The journey from the more rural areas of 15938, such as those near South Fork, to UPMC Altoona, a regional hub for specialized cancer care, typically involves a drive of around 45 to 60 minutes, primarily via the US-219 and the US-22.

The US-219, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather. The US-22, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers a more direct route but can also be subject to congestion, particularly near the city centers. The secondary roads, like PA-53 and PA-865, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower speeds and potentially challenging driving conditions, especially during winter months. These routes are vital for accessing smaller clinics and physician offices, but their impact on the overall "Lung Cancer Score" is less significant compared to the primary highways.

The drive to larger medical centers, such as those in Pittsburgh (approximately a 2-hour drive via the US-22 and I-99), or even the facilities in Hershey (around a 3-hour drive via the US-22 and I-81), requires careful planning. These longer journeys necessitate consideration of fatigue, the need for rest stops, and the potential for unexpected delays. This significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" as it increases the time commitment and stress associated with treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 15938 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services within Johnstown and surrounding areas. However, these routes are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of cancer patients, and their reach into the more rural areas of the ZIP code is severely restricted.

The CCTA's routes, while offering affordable transportation, are often infrequent, with limited evening and weekend service. This makes them less viable for appointments requiring specific time slots or for treatments that necessitate frequent visits. The lack of ADA-compliant features on all routes further reduces their accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, a common concern for those undergoing cancer treatment. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the limited utility of public transit in this context.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their reliability and availability in the more remote parts of 15938 can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services expensive, potentially creating a financial barrier to accessing care.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like First Transit or local ambulance services, provide a more specialized solution. These services offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they often require advance booking and can be costly, impacting the overall "Lung Cancer Score." The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and potential scheduling limitations must be considered.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Moving to Lilly**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 15938 reflects a mixed picture. While access to healthcare is present, it is significantly influenced by the limitations of transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the restricted public transit, and the cost and availability of ride-share and medical transport all contribute to a score that suggests challenges in accessing timely and convenient care.

For those considering moving to Lilly, a town within 15938, the transportation considerations are particularly relevant. The distance to major medical centers, the dependence on personal vehicles, and the limited public transit options should be carefully weighed. Individuals with a lung cancer diagnosis or a higher risk of developing the disease should prioritize locations with easy access to primary roads and consider the potential need for specialized transportation services.

The decision to move to Lilly, or any part of 15938, requires a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges. While the area may offer a desirable lifestyle, the logistical hurdles of accessing healthcare must be factored into the equation. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that in the fight against lung cancer, every minute counts, and the ability to reach treatment quickly and efficiently is paramount.