16344, Rouseville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16344, Rouseville, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.00 percent of residents in 16344 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Northwest with a distance of 6.19 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rouseville, PA (ZIP Code 16344)

This report assesses the ease of access to lung cancer-related healthcare services for residents of Rouseville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16344), evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on timely diagnosis and treatment. The ability to reach specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers is crucial for lung cancer patients, and this analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area. We’ll explore the options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine the overall accessibility of healthcare within the context of this community.

Rouseville, a small borough nestled in the heart of northwestern Pennsylvania, presents unique transportation challenges. The town's rural setting necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. This dependence underscores the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation options for those who may not be able to drive themselves. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors, providing a comprehensive picture of the healthcare access situation.

The primary thoroughfare serving Rouseville is Pennsylvania Route 8, a north-south artery that connects the borough to larger towns and cities. Heading south on Route 8, residents can access Oil City, a town approximately 6 miles away. This short drive is usually manageable, offering access to some basic medical facilities. However, specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel further afield.

Traveling north on Route 8 leads to Titusville, about 10 miles away. While Titusville offers a smaller regional hospital, the availability of advanced lung cancer services is limited. The drive itself is relatively straightforward, but the limited healthcare options in Titusville highlight the need for exploring destinations further away.

Venturing beyond these immediate locales, the journey to more comprehensive healthcare options becomes more complex. The closest major medical centers capable of providing advanced lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Erie, Pennsylvania, roughly 70 miles to the northwest. The primary route to Erie involves taking Route 8 north to U.S. Route 6, then west to Interstate 79. This drive, typically taking around 1 hour and 45 minutes under ideal conditions, can be significantly impacted by weather, traffic, and road construction.

Another option is to travel south on Route 8 to Route 27, then east to U.S. Route 322, which eventually leads to Interstate 80. This route, while potentially offering a slightly different traffic profile, still involves a considerable drive to reach larger medical centers, often in the State College or Pittsburgh areas.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the drive times to these key healthcare destinations, accounting for potential delays and the physical limitations that may affect a patient's ability to travel. It also incorporates the availability of alternative transportation options for those who cannot drive themselves, such as public transit and ride-sharing services.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Venango County Regional Transportation Authority (VCRTA) provides some bus services within the county, but these routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not offer direct or convenient connections to the major medical centers in Erie or Pittsburgh. VCRTA buses may include ADA features, but the frequency of service and the limited geographic reach pose significant challenges for those seeking lung cancer care.

The lack of robust public transportation necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who are unable to drive due to their illness, age, or other factors. The "Lung Cancer Score" recognizes the importance of addressing these transportation barriers to ensure equitable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Rouseville. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden for patients, especially those undergoing lengthy and expensive cancer treatments. The "Lung Cancer Score" weighs the practicality and affordability of ride-sharing services as a component of overall healthcare accessibility.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and their presence in Rouseville needs to be assessed. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the availability and affordability of medical transportation services as an important factor.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Rouseville, PA (ZIP Code 16344) will reflect the following:

* **Drive Times:** The average time required to travel to major medical centers offering lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options, including ADA features.
* **Ride-Sharing Services:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability, cost, and quality of medical transportation options.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden associated with accessing healthcare, including fuel costs, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation expenses.

The score will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating better access to healthcare and a lower score reflecting greater challenges. The analysis will provide valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services to ensure that all residents of Rouseville have equal access to the care they need.

For individuals considering **moving to Rouseville**, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides crucial information for making informed decisions about healthcare access. Understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility is essential for those with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking to ensure access to quality medical care. This report is designed to empower residents with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system and advocate for improved access to services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to providing equitable healthcare access. It underscores the importance of addressing transportation barriers and ensuring that all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial circumstances, can receive the timely diagnosis and treatment they need. The ongoing evaluation of transportation options and healthcare access will contribute to a healthier and more supportive community for all.