16132, Hillsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16132, Hillsville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.84 percent of residents in 16132 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Jameson with a distance of 7.49 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hillsville (ZIP Code 16132)

The air in Hillsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16132), carries the promise of rural tranquility. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to healthcare can be a complex undertaking. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering the crucial element of **transportation**. It offers a practical guide for current residents and those contemplating **moving to Hillsville**, focusing on the realities of **healthcare access** within this specific geographic context.

The score, ultimately, reflects the ease or difficulty a patient experiences in reaching vital medical services. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative **transportation** options, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities.

### Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities

For most Hillsville residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation**. The most direct route to significant medical centers involves navigating the local roadways. The closest major healthcare hub is UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, approximately a 20-minute drive. The primary thoroughfare is Pennsylvania Route 18, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours.

Further afield, the drive to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, a center specializing in cancer treatment, is a more significant undertaking. This journey typically spans an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily utilizing Interstate 376. Traffic, particularly around the city, can significantly extend this travel time, making it a crucial factor in a patient’s treatment schedule.

Other regional hospitals, such as St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital in Ohio, offer additional options. However, the drive, often via Pennsylvania Route 422 and the Ohio Turnpike, can also take up to an hour, depending on traffic.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of maintaining a reliable car and the potential financial burden of fuel, maintenance, and parking fees. The time spent commuting to appointments, tests, and treatments can also impact a patient's energy levels and overall well-being.

### Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility

Public **transportation** options in Hillsville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Beaver County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides some bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the more populated areas of Beaver County. Service to Hillsville is minimal, making it an unreliable option for regular medical appointments.

Furthermore, the BCTA buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules significantly restrict their utility for individuals requiring frequent medical care.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for those who cannot drive, have mobility limitations, or lack access to a personal vehicle. This gap in **healthcare access** highlights the need for alternative solutions.

### Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hillsville area, but their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedRide and First Medical Transport provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for patients with mobility issues or those who require assistance during their journey. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be expensive, potentially adding to the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

### Assessing the Score: A Multifaceted Evaluation

The Lung Cancer Score for Hillsville (ZIP Code 16132) considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average travel time to major cancer treatment centers, considering peak traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, route coverage, and accessibility of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-share services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Financial Burden:** The estimated cost of **transportation**, including fuel, parking, ride-share fees, and medical transport services.

Based on these factors, the score will reflect the overall ease or difficulty a patient experiences in accessing lung cancer care.

### Considerations for Moving to Hillsville

For individuals considering **moving to Hillsville**, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a critical piece of information. It underscores the importance of assessing the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. Prospective residents with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns should carefully evaluate their ability to navigate the available **transportation** options.

Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize locations within a reasonable driving distance of hospitals and cancer treatment centers.
* **Vehicle Reliability:** Ensure access to a reliable vehicle and budget for potential maintenance costs.
* **Alternative Transportation Plans:** Identify and research ride-share services, medical **transportation** providers, and potential support networks.
* **Financial Planning:** Account for the ongoing costs of **transportation** in the overall budget.

### Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead

The Lung Cancer Score for Hillsville (ZIP Code 16132) provides a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access**. While the area offers the charm of rural living, the limited **transportation** options can create significant obstacles for individuals battling lung cancer.

By understanding the realities of commuting, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of alternative **transportation** services, residents and prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. This information is crucial for ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by this devastating disease.