15944, New Florence, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15944, New Florence, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.82 percent of residents in 15944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Florence, PA (ZIP Code 15944)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, a complex journey demanding swift and reliable access to specialized care. For residents of New Florence, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15944), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes inextricably linked to their healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer treatment facilities from New Florence, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient care. Considering a move to this area? This information is crucial.

New Florence, a charming borough nestled in the Laurel Highlands, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the efficiency and reliability of transportation options to reach essential medical services, recognizing that timely access to treatment is paramount in battling this disease. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation for most New Florence residents will be personal vehicles. The critical roadways are US Route 22, a major east-west artery, and PA Route 711, providing north-south connectivity. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic conditions and the distance to specialized centers.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, approximately 25 miles east. Driving on US Route 22 typically takes 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic flow. This route, though generally well-maintained, can experience delays, especially during peak commuting hours or inclement weather.

Another option is UPMC Altoona, roughly 50 miles east via US Route 22 and US Route 219. This drive can take between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a longer commitment. The potential for delays increases with this longer distance.

Finally, for more specialized care, patients may need to travel to Pittsburgh, roughly 70 miles west. This journey, primarily via US Route 22 and then the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), can take 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and toll booth congestion. The Turnpike, while efficient, adds to the overall cost of transportation.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will factor in these drive times, recognizing that longer travel distances can increase patient stress, fatigue, and the logistical burden of frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in New Florence are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service in the Johnstown area, but service to New Florence is infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Johnstown. The CCTA does not have direct routes to Pittsburgh or Altoona.

ADA accessibility on CCTA buses is available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and route coverage significantly restrict its practicality for regular trips to cancer treatment centers. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the limitations of public transit as a primary means of accessing specialized care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown and Pittsburgh areas, though their presence in New Florence itself may be less consistent. Availability can be a concern, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to cancer centers can also be a significant financial burden.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized options for patients who require assistance with mobility. These services can be crucial for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be calculated based on several factors:

* **Drive Time:** Weighted based on the distance to cancer treatment centers (Conemaugh, UPMC Altoona, Pittsburgh hospitals).
* **Public Transit Availability:** Points awarded based on the frequency and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Reliability:** Points based on the availability, cost, and ease of access to ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Accessibility Features:** Points awarded for ADA-compliant transportation options.

The score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities for residents of New Florence seeking lung cancer treatment.

**Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in New Florence can significantly impact healthcare access. Longer travel times can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, increased patient stress, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. The limited availability of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can create financial barriers to care.

This analysis underscores the importance of careful consideration for those considering moving to New Florence, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are at risk for lung cancer.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in New Florence requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly routes connecting to major healthcare centers, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could alleviate some of the financial burden. Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their affordability is crucial.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access in New Florence. It highlights the need for strategic interventions to ensure that residents have timely and reliable access to the specialized care they need, especially when facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. Understanding these transportation realities is essential for anyone considering moving to New Florence.