16110, Adamsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16110, Adamsville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.01 percent of residents in 16110 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 6.44 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Adamsville (ZIP Code 16110)

Adamsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16110), a community nestled in the rolling hills, offers a unique blend of rural charm and convenient access to essential services. However, the challenges of transportation, particularly for those facing a serious health condition like lung cancer, cannot be ignored. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for Adamsville, focusing on healthcare access and the crucial role of transportation. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport solutions, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Adamsville.

The diagnosis of lung cancer often necessitates frequent and sometimes urgent medical appointments. This includes diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and regular consultations with oncologists and specialists. The ability to reach these appointments reliably and efficiently is paramount to effective treatment and patient well-being. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities offering these services from Adamsville, emphasizing the transportation options available.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Roadblocks**

For many Adamsville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the region's roadways. From Adamsville, the journey to UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, a key healthcare provider, primarily utilizes **PA-18** south. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the "Lung Cancer Score," offering patients timely access to critical medical care.

Further afield, the drive to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities in Pittsburgh, including UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, becomes a longer undertaking. The most common route involves taking **I-79** south. This journey can range from 60 to 90 minutes, potentially adding significant stress and fatigue for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Furthermore, weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact drive times, potentially delaying appointments and impacting treatment schedules.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transportation options in Adamsville and the surrounding area are limited. The Lawrence County Transit Authority (LCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients. Service frequency is often low, and routes may not directly connect Adamsville with major medical centers.

The LCTA does offer some ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can create significant challenges for patients requiring timely transportation to appointments. The lack of comprehensive public transit significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score," highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Adamsville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While these services can provide a convenient option for some, the cost can be a barrier for patients with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments cannot always be guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by MedTrans or First Transit, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist with patient transfers. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and can be expensive, potentially limiting access for some patients. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial factors in determining the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Healthcare Access: The Cornerstone of the Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is heavily influenced by the availability of comprehensive cancer care within a reasonable distance. UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle offers a range of cancer services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This proximity is a significant advantage for Adamsville residents, contributing positively to the score.

However, access to specialized services, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh. The longer travel times to these facilities negatively impact the score, highlighting the importance of robust transportation solutions.

**Moving to Adamsville: A Transportation Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Adamsville, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a crucial insight into healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options, particularly for those with health concerns, must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their individual transportation needs and explore available resources, including family and friends, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Adamsville, while acknowledging the proximity of some healthcare services, reveals significant challenges related to transportation. The limited public transit options, the potential for lengthy drives to specialized care, and the reliance on potentially unreliable ride-sharing services highlight the need for improved transportation infrastructure and resources.

Addressing these challenges could involve several strategies: advocating for increased public transit services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and expanding the availability of medical transportation services. Furthermore, promoting community awareness of available resources and providing assistance to patients in navigating the transportation landscape can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance the quality of life for residents of Adamsville facing this challenging disease. Improving transportation is a critical step towards ensuring that all residents of Adamsville, including those battling lung cancer, have access to the healthcare they need, when they need it.