15952, Salix, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15952, Salix, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.22 percent of residents in 15952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 4.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Salix, PA (ZIP Code 15952)

Considering a move to the quiet community of Salix, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15952)? While the rolling hills and close-knit atmosphere offer undeniable charm, a crucial aspect of relocation planning involves assessing healthcare access, especially if you have concerns about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for Salix, focusing on transportation options to the nearest medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this serious disease. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility within the context of this rural Pennsylvania locale.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal medical assessment, but rather a practical evaluation of the ease and speed with which residents of Salix can reach specialized lung cancer care. Factors considered include the distance to hospitals with oncology departments, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential challenges faced by individuals with mobility limitations. This information empowers potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs when considering a move.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Salix is likely to be UPMC Altoona Hospital, located approximately 25 miles away. The most direct route is via Route 219 South, a major highway that provides relatively swift passage. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive typically takes around 35 to 45 minutes. However, weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make Route 219 treacherous, potentially extending the commute and increasing the risk of delays.

Alternative routes exist, but they typically involve navigating smaller, winding roads. Taking Route 56 East to Route 22 East adds distance and time, likely resulting in a 45-60 minute drive. These routes are less ideal for emergency situations or when prompt medical attention is critical.

Public transportation options in Salix are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service throughout the region, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas. While the CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, the routes serving Salix are not specifically designed for convenient access to UPMC Altoona. A potential route might involve taking a CCTA bus to Johnstown, then transferring to another route, but this journey would likely be lengthy and require careful planning, potentially taking several hours.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Salix itself is less certain. Availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and expensive.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance. Companies like MedTrans and AMR (American Medical Response) provide ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive or lack other transportation options. However, these services can be costly, and their availability depends on staffing and demand.

Considering the challenges, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Salix is moderate. While UPMC Altoona Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation presents a significant hurdle. The lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create additional barriers to healthcare access.

Individuals considering a move to Salix with existing or potential lung cancer concerns should carefully assess their transportation needs. Owning a reliable vehicle is crucial. Planning for potential delays due to weather or traffic is also essential. Exploring options for medical transportation services and establishing relationships with local providers is highly recommended.

Furthermore, the proximity to Johnstown, with its slightly better access to ride-sharing and potentially more frequent CCTA routes, could be a factor in choosing a location within the ZIP code.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the challenges are amplified. The lack of readily available public transportation options and the potential costs associated with medical transport services require careful consideration. Exploring options for in-home care and support services may be necessary.

Moving to Salix requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning. While the community offers a tranquil lifestyle, ensuring reliable transportation to specialized medical care is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a critical factor in making informed decisions about where to live and how to manage your health.

In conclusion, while Salix offers a peaceful setting, the "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the need for careful planning regarding transportation to specialized medical care. Prospective residents should prioritize assessing their ability to access healthcare, considering the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential costs of medical transport services. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Salix and ensuring access to timely and effective lung cancer care.