16130, Hadley, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16130, Hadley, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.47 percent of residents in 16130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 8.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hadley, PA (ZIP Code 16130)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, and access to timely and effective healthcare becomes paramount. For residents of Hadley, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16130), understanding the complexities of transportation to medical facilities is crucial. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," assessing the accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare within and around this specific area. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for individuals facing this challenging journey, especially those considering moving to Hadley.

Our analysis considers the primary healthcare providers specializing in lung cancer treatment within a reasonable radius of Hadley. These include hospitals with oncology departments, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy centers. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers factors like travel time, availability of transportation options, and the overall ease of reaching these vital services.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. Hadley's location in Mercer County dictates reliance on several key roadways. The primary artery is Interstate 80, providing relatively swift access to larger medical centers in cities like Pittsburgh, though this trip can be a significant undertaking. Driving east on I-80 toward Pittsburgh, the journey is approximately 70 miles, potentially taking over an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

Closer to home, Route 19, a north-south thoroughfare, offers access to local medical facilities and connecting roads. Route 62, another important route, provides a more direct link to the city of Sharon. Navigating these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can present challenges. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in and around Hadley are limited. The primary provider is the Mercer County Regional Planning Commission, which offers a demand-response service. This means that rides must be scheduled in advance, and availability can be restricted. This service is not a viable option for urgent needs.

Public transportation options are not typically designed with the needs of patients requiring frequent, specialized medical care in mind. The lack of readily available public transit is a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or the financial means for alternative transportation.

ADA accessibility is a critical concern. While the Mercer County Regional Planning Commission strives to accommodate individuals with disabilities, availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations should be confirmed well in advance of any scheduled appointments. The absence of regular, fixed-route bus service is a major disadvantage for residents.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hadley area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing costs can also accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, they can be expensive, and availability should be confirmed well in advance. Several companies offer these services in the area, including those based in Pittsburgh.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Hadley, PA (16130) reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance to specialized lung cancer treatment centers in Pittsburgh and Sharon, PA, significantly impacts the score. Longer drive times equate to a lower score.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The lack of readily available, reliable public transit lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services affect the score.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is a critical factor.
* **Overall Ease of Access:** The overall ease of reaching medical appointments, considering all transportation options, is a key component.

**Moving to Hadley: A Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Hadley, understanding the "Lung Cancer Score" is vital. If you are already facing a lung cancer diagnosis or are at high risk, carefully assess the transportation options and their associated costs and limitations. Consider the implications of potential delays and the need for reliable transportation to frequent medical appointments.

The proximity of family and friends who can provide transportation support is invaluable. Explore the availability of local support groups and resources for cancer patients. Consider the financial implications of transportation costs and investigate potential assistance programs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Hadley, PA (16130) highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating healthcare access. While the area offers some options, limitations in public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services pose challenges.

Individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis in Hadley must proactively plan for transportation needs. This includes researching available options, budgeting for transportation costs, and building a support network. The journey through lung cancer treatment is challenging, and understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial step in ensuring access to timely and effective care. The score, therefore, is a reflection of the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the individual needs of those seeking care in Hadley, PA.