15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.42 percent of residents in 15943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 12.21 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Nanty Glo (ZIP Code 15943)

Considering a move to Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15943)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite assessment of transportation options and healthcare access for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. The score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services, a critical factor when battling this challenging disease. We will evaluate various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on accessing vital healthcare facilities.

The landscape of healthcare access in Nanty Glo, nestled within Cambria County, presents unique challenges. The town itself, a community of roughly 3,000 residents, lacks comprehensive medical facilities. This necessitates reliance on neighboring towns and cities for specialized care, particularly for oncology services. The ability to navigate this transportation network becomes paramount for patients requiring regular treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or frequent consultations.

**The Driving Factor: Personal Transportation**

For many residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The convenience and flexibility of a car are undeniable, especially for those undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or require frequent appointments.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Nanty Glo are the major roadways. Route 271, a vital north-south thoroughfare, connects Nanty Glo to Johnstown, the closest city offering a range of medical services. The drive along Route 271 typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, potentially increasing travel times and necessitating caution.

Traveling eastward to Ebensburg, the county seat, requires navigating Route 403. This route offers access to some medical facilities, though the scope of services may be more limited than those available in Johnstown. The drive to Ebensburg is usually shorter, approximately 15 to 20 minutes, but the availability of specialized oncology care is more limited.

Further afield, Pittsburgh, a major medical hub, offers world-class cancer centers. However, the journey to Pittsburgh is significantly longer, requiring approximately a two-hour drive via Route 22, a major east-west highway. This extended travel time can be a significant burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments. The drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion around Pittsburgh can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Nanty Glo are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service within the county. However, the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to prioritize medical appointments, and the frequency of service can be infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings.

The CCTA does offer some routes that connect Nanty Glo to Johnstown. However, the trip can be lengthy, involving transfers and potentially extended wait times. The CCTA does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses, which is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliability of the service, especially during inclement weather, can be a concern.

Furthermore, the CCTA's route network may not directly serve all medical facilities in Johnstown, potentially requiring passengers to walk or utilize ride-sharing services to reach their appointments. This adds another layer of complexity and potential delay to the process.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, offering a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit. However, the availability of these services in Nanty Glo itself may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including those that cater to patients with specific needs, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can provide a more reliable and comfortable transportation experience, especially for those with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment that may affect their ability to drive. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and advance booking is usually required.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Nanty Glo reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. It considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to major healthcare facilities, including oncology centers and hospitals.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, reliability, and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these alternative transportation methods.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities.
* **Weather Considerations:** The impact of inclement weather on transportation reliability and safety.

The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the patient's mobility, financial resources, and the specific type of treatment required.

**Moving to Nanty Glo: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering a move to Nanty Glo, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options and healthcare access. While the town offers a close-knit community and a lower cost of living, the limited access to specialized medical care necessitates careful planning.

Individuals with lung cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to quality healthcare facilities. Before moving, they should investigate the availability of oncology services in Johnstown and Pittsburgh, assess the feasibility of using personal vehicles, and explore the availability and cost of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options.

The decision to move to Nanty Glo should be made in consultation with their healthcare providers, who can provide guidance on the best course of action based on their specific medical needs and treatment plan. Careful consideration of these factors will ensure that individuals can access the necessary healthcare services while navigating the challenges of transportation in this rural Pennsylvania community. The ability to manage transportation effectively is a vital component of successful cancer treatment and overall well-being.