16156, Volant, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16156, Volant, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.77 percent of residents in 16156 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grove City Medical Center with a distance of 7.83 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Volant, PA (ZIP Code 16156)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of rural tranquility in Volant, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16156). Rolling hills and the gentle murmur of Neshannock Creek paint a picture of idyllic living. But beneath this serene facade lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer: access to timely and effective healthcare. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score,” examines the crucial element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access** for residents of Volant, a vital factor for anyone **moving to Volant**.

Lung cancer, a formidable adversary, demands swift diagnosis and treatment. Delays in accessing specialized care can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life. Therefore, understanding the **transportation** landscape surrounding Volant is paramount. This score considers drive times to hospitals and cancer centers, availability of public **transportation**, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

The primary arteries connecting Volant to the broader healthcare network are the highways and roads. Route 208, a crucial east-west connector, provides the most direct route to Sharon Regional Medical Center, approximately 15 miles east. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes around 20-25 minutes. This is a relatively manageable timeframe, offering a reasonable degree of **healthcare access**. However, weather conditions, particularly during harsh Pennsylvania winters, can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying critical care.

Heading south on Route 18 offers access to UPMC Jameson in New Castle, approximately 20 miles away. The drive, generally taking 30-40 minutes, is longer than the Sharon route. This journey involves navigating a more complex road network, increasing the potential for delays. The availability of alternative routes, such as Route 388, is limited, making this option less flexible.

For specialized cancer care, the closest comprehensive facilities are located further afield. The Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a renowned institution, necessitates a drive of approximately 70 miles, primarily via I-79 North. This journey, typically taking 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, represents a significant **transportation** commitment. While the quality of care at Hillman is exceptional, the distance poses a considerable challenge, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This is a critical consideration when assessing **healthcare access** in Volant.

Public **transportation** options in the Volant area are limited. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) operates a demand-response system, offering door-to-door service within Mercer County. However, this service, while potentially available, is not specifically designed for medical **transportation** and may require advance booking. The reliability and efficiency of this service for urgent medical needs are questionable. Information regarding ADA accessibility is available by contacting the MCRPC directly.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Volant is variable. While these services may be accessible, their presence is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is risky, and a backup plan is essential.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the region. These services, often provided by private companies, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, representing a significant financial burden for patients. Researching and identifying reputable medical **transportation** providers is crucial for anyone with mobility limitations or other needs. Companies like LifeLine Ambulance, and others, offer medical transport services.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Volant, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to Sharon Regional Medical Center provides a reasonable level of **healthcare access** for general medical needs, the reliance on personal vehicles for more specialized care, such as cancer treatment, is a significant drawback. The limited public **transportation** options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate this challenge.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer or those at high risk, the **transportation** factor must be carefully weighed. The potential for longer travel times to specialized cancer centers, coupled with the limitations of public **transportation** and the cost of medical **transportation**, can create significant logistical and financial hurdles.

The decision of **moving to Volant** must include a thorough assessment of these **transportation** limitations. Prospective residents should research local medical **transportation** providers, familiarize themselves with the MCRPC service, and consider the potential financial implications of frequent travel to distant cancer centers.

Furthermore, establishing a strong support network within the community is essential. Having friends, family, or neighbors willing to provide **transportation** assistance can significantly improve **healthcare access**. Proactive planning and a realistic assessment of the **transportation** challenges are crucial for ensuring timely and effective care.

In conclusion, while Volant offers the allure of rural living, the **transportation** landscape presents challenges for **healthcare access**, particularly for those battling lung cancer. The “Lung Cancer Score” highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive research, and a robust support system to navigate the complexities of accessing timely and effective medical care. The beauty of Volant must be balanced with the practical realities of its **transportation** infrastructure, ensuring that the promise of a peaceful life does not come at the expense of one's health.