16212, Cadogan, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16212, Cadogan, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.29 percent of residents in 16212 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 3.97 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 16212

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and effective access to care. For residents of ZIP Code 16212, nestled in the heart of rural Pennsylvania, this access is inextricably linked to **transportation**. This write-up analyzes the landscape of **healthcare access** within and surrounding this area, focusing on the crucial element of getting to and from medical appointments. Our goal is to provide a practical guide, especially relevant for those **moving to Cadogan**, a small community within the ZIP code, and concerned about their healthcare options.

The primary challenge for 16212 residents is the rural nature of the area. This translates to limited options for getting to specialized care, often necessitating travel to larger towns and cities. The journey itself, the **transportation** infrastructure, and the available resources all contribute to the Lung Cancer Score, a composite measure of accessibility.

The most common mode of travel is by car. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Pennsylvania Route 28, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Route 66, which offers an east-west connection. For those living in Cadogan and needing to reach the nearest comprehensive cancer center, the drive to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a facility offering cutting-edge treatments, involves a drive of approximately 50-60 miles. This translates to a drive time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.

Alternatively, the drive to Allegheny Health Network's (AHN) Cancer Institute in Pittsburgh is also a viable option. The drive time is similar, depending on traffic conditions. These drive times, while manageable for routine check-ups, can become a significant burden for frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Moreover, weather conditions, common in Pennsylvania, can drastically increase travel times and pose safety risks.

Public **transportation** options in 16212 are severely limited. There is no dedicated bus service within the ZIP code itself. The closest public **transportation** options are provided by the Armstrong County Transit Authority (ACTA). ACTA offers limited routes, primarily focused on connecting towns within Armstrong County. While ACTA might offer service to nearby towns with some medical facilities, it does not provide direct routes to major cancer centers in Pittsburgh. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes is low, and the service hours are often restricted, making it a highly impractical option for cancer patients needing regular appointments. ADA-accessible buses are available, but scheduling and route limitations remain significant obstacles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability is a major concern. The availability of drivers is highly variable, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening, which are common times for medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be substantial, particularly for long-distance trips to Pittsburgh. This can create a financial burden for patients already facing the costs of cancer treatment.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans Corporation and Liberty Ambulance Service provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and can be costly, but they offer a more reliable and comfortable option for patients who are unable to drive or use public **transportation**. However, the availability of these services might be limited, and booking far in advance is often necessary, adding another layer of complexity to the process.

The **healthcare access** landscape is further complicated by the availability of local medical facilities. The closest hospitals offering some level of cancer care are Armstrong County Memorial Hospital in Kittanning and ACMH Hospital in Kittanning. However, these facilities may not offer the full range of specialized services, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, that are available at the larger cancer centers in Pittsburgh. This necessitates travel to the city for comprehensive care.

For individuals **moving to Cadogan** or considering a move, the Lung Cancer Score for 16212 is heavily influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles and the challenges associated with long-distance travel. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**. The cost of **transportation**, both in terms of time and money, can be a major stressor for patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services within the community. Access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment. The proximity to these resources, and the ease with which they can be accessed, contribute to the overall score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 16212 reflects the inherent challenges of rural living. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the **transportation** limitations present a significant hurdle to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, navigate long travel times, and consider the cost and availability of alternative **transportation** options. For those **moving to Cadogan** or the surrounding areas, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs and a proactive approach to planning for medical appointments are essential. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for ensuring timely and effective cancer care.