16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.63 percent of residents in 16246 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.03 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Plumville, PA (ZIP Code 16246)

The shadow of lung cancer, a formidable foe, casts a long reach across the landscape of health. For residents of Plumville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16246), the accessibility of vital healthcare services, particularly those related to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, becomes a critical factor in their well-being. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for Plumville, analyzing the intricate web of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, offering a nuanced perspective for anyone considering moving to this rural community.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a numerical value but rather a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access in relation to lung cancer care. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, all crucial elements in a patient's journey from suspicion to diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Plumville, nestled in the heart of Armstrong County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The area is predominantly rural, characterized by winding roads and limited public transit infrastructure. This geographical reality significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score, emphasizing the importance of personal vehicles and the potential limitations of other transportation methods.

Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most Plumville residents. The primary arteries connecting Plumville to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28) and U.S. Route 422 (US-422). PA-28 provides access to the Allegheny Valley Hospital in Natrona Heights, a facility that offers comprehensive cancer care. The drive along PA-28, though scenic, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours. The average drive time to Allegheny Valley Hospital from Plumville is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions.

US-422 offers an alternative route, leading towards the ACMH Hospital in Kittanning, a local hospital that offers diagnostic services and some cancer treatment options. The drive time to ACMH Hospital is generally shorter, averaging around 20-30 minutes. However, the scope of cancer services offered at ACMH might be less extensive than those available at Allegheny Valley Hospital. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact drive times and the reliability of access.

Public transportation options in Plumville are extremely limited. The Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving the Kittanning area. These routes are not designed to accommodate the specific needs of patients seeking specialized cancer care. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is limited, which is a critical consideration for patients with mobility issues. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plumville area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations within the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients, particularly those requiring frequent trips for treatment. The reliability of ride-sharing services for medical appointments contributes to a lower Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, providing services for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services needs to be confirmed in advance. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transport may be available, but availability and cost vary.

The Lung Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of cancer specialists in the area. While Allegheny Valley Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy, the distance and travel time can still be a challenge for Plumville residents. The need for frequent appointments, including chemotherapy and radiation treatments, can place a significant burden on patients and their families.

For those considering moving to Plumville, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer care, must be carefully considered. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, highlights the importance of having access to a reliable personal vehicle or the need to budget for medical transportation services.

Furthermore, individuals considering moving to Plumville should research the availability of support services for cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. These resources can help alleviate the emotional, physical, and financial burdens associated with cancer treatment.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Plumville, PA (ZIP Code 16246) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the community offers a serene environment, the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized cancer care facilities create significant challenges for individuals facing lung cancer. Careful planning, consideration of transportation options, and awareness of available support services are essential for anyone navigating the healthcare landscape in Plumville. The journey to healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer patients, requires navigating the roads and the potential limitations of transportation, making it a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Plumville.