16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.56 percent of residents in 16114 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 10.37 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarks Mills, PA (ZIP Code 16114)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering a move, and this is particularly true when assessing the potential for lung cancer care. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 16114 (Clarks Mills, PA), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care related to lung cancer. This 'Lung Cancer Score' aims to provide a comprehensive overview, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges.

Clarks Mills, nestled in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The area is primarily rural, and the availability of public transportation is limited. This reality significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles. The score will therefore weigh heavily on the accessibility of private transportation options and the proximity of specialized medical centers.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Route**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Clarks Mills is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area include PA Route 358, PA Route 18, and US Route 62. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours, particularly around larger towns like Greenville and Mercer.

For a potential lung cancer patient, the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center is a critical factor. The UPMC Horizon Greenville Hospital, located approximately 15 miles away, is the closest facility. The drive, primarily via PA Route 358 and then PA Route 18, typically takes around 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this time can increase significantly during inclement weather or rush hour.

Further afield, more specialized cancer centers, such as the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, are accessible. However, the drive to Pittsburgh, primarily via I-79 North, is a significant undertaking, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This lengthy commute necessitates careful planning and consideration for patients undergoing treatment, who may require frequent visits.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the Clarks Mills area are extremely limited. Mercer County operates a demand-response transit system, the Mercer County Regional Transportation Authority (MCRTA). This system provides door-to-door service, but it requires advance booking and operates within specific hours. While the MCRTA can be a lifeline for some, its availability and scheduling constraints may pose challenges for individuals needing frequent medical appointments.

The MCRTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and potential wait times should be carefully considered. Public transit is not a readily available option for those moving to Clarks Mills.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarks Mills area, though their availability may be less consistent than in more urban centers. The cost and reliability of these services should be carefully evaluated, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or those needing transportation during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another alternative. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility challenges. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including those that specialize in long-distance transport. Researching these options and understanding their pricing structures is essential.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Clarks Mills, PA (16114) would reflect the following factors:

* **Proximity to Cancer Centers:** The score would weigh the distance and drive time to both Greenville Hospital and the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The limited public transit options would negatively impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Reliability:** The score would factor in the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:** The availability of ADA-accessible transportation options would be considered.
* **Overall Accessibility:** The score would reflect the combined ease of access to healthcare, considering all transportation options and their associated challenges.

**Moving to Clarks Mills: Transportation Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Clarks Mills, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, careful consideration of transportation is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of maintaining a reliable car and understanding the road conditions, especially during winter months.

Prior to a move, prospective residents should research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. They should also investigate the MCRTA's services and determine if they meet their needs. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare and maintaining a high quality of life.

**Conclusion: A Call for Careful Planning**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Clarks Mills, PA (16114) would likely reflect the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers a peaceful setting, the limited transportation options necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely access to medical care. Individuals considering moving to Clarks Mills should prioritize researching transportation alternatives and understanding the potential challenges they may face, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a crucial aspect of healthcare access in this community.