16345, Russell, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16345, Russell, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.81 percent of residents in 16345 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Warren General Hospital with a distance of 6.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Russell, PA (ZIP Code 16345)

The crisp air of Russell, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Allegheny National Forest, offers a scenic backdrop for life. But when the shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis falls, the beauty of the surroundings can be overshadowed by the pressing need for timely and accessible healthcare. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for ZIP code 16345, focusing on transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. For those considering moving to Russell, this information is crucial.

The score considers the availability and efficiency of transportation options to specialized lung cancer care facilities. It examines drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for patients in this rural area. We will explore the landscape of **transportation** options, a critical factor determining the quality of **healthcare access** for residents.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in Russell is its rural nature. The town is relatively isolated, with limited public transit options and a reliance on personal vehicles. This isolation significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for individuals requiring frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The physical and emotional toll of battling cancer is compounded by the logistical hurdles of reaching specialized care.

The cornerstone of **transportation** in Russell is the personal vehicle. Driving is the most common method for reaching healthcare facilities. The primary thoroughfares are the scenic Route 6, a vital east-west artery, and Route 62, a north-south connector. These highways, while offering beautiful views, can present challenges.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and oncology centers are a critical element of the "Lung Cancer Score." Warren General Hospital, approximately 15 miles away, is the closest facility. The drive, primarily via Route 62, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a manageable distance for routine check-ups and initial consultations.

However, specialized lung cancer care, including radiation therapy and advanced diagnostic imaging, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. UPMC Hamot in Erie, approximately 60 miles away, is a regional hub for specialized cancer treatment. The journey to Erie, primarily via Route 6 and then Interstate 86, can take 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This extended travel time significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," adding stress and potential delays to treatment.

Another option is the Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute in Pittsburgh, a much further distance. The drive, utilizing Interstate 80 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, is approximately 120 miles and can take 2.5 to 3 hours. This longer commute is a significant deterrent for regular appointments and can severely impact a patient's ability to receive timely care.

Public transit options in Russell are limited. The Warren County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed for local travel and lack direct routes to major healthcare facilities outside of Warren. The WCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage make public transit an unreliable option for cancer patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** options. This limitation significantly lowers the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents who do not own a car or are unable to drive. This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Russell**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Russell area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The frequency of service and the potential for surge pricing can make them an unreliable and costly option, particularly for patients with limited financial resources. The availability of these services is also significantly lower in rural areas compared to urban centers.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, provide another avenue for patients needing assistance. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, which may not always be feasible in emergency situations or for last-minute appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within the community. Local organizations and support groups can provide valuable resources, including emotional support, financial assistance, and assistance with **transportation**. These resources can help alleviate some of the challenges associated with navigating the healthcare system.

The score is not solely based on the availability of **transportation** but also considers the overall impact on the patient. The time spent traveling to and from appointments, the financial burden of transportation costs, and the physical and emotional toll of long commutes all contribute to the "Lung Cancer Score."

For individuals **moving to Russell**, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their healthcare needs and **transportation** options. It is essential to consider the potential challenges of accessing specialized care and to develop a comprehensive plan for managing **transportation** needs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 16345 is significantly impacted by the rural location. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. The long travel times to specialized cancer centers, particularly in Erie and Pittsburgh, are a major concern.

However, the score is not entirely negative. The proximity to Warren General Hospital provides a baseline level of care, and the availability of medical **transportation** services offers a lifeline for some patients. The presence of local support groups and community resources can also help mitigate some of the challenges.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Russell, PA (ZIP code 16345) reflects the unique challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural setting. While the scenic beauty of the area is undeniable, the limitations in **transportation** infrastructure create significant hurdles for individuals battling lung cancer. For those considering **moving to Russell**, a thorough assessment of healthcare needs and a proactive approach to **transportation** planning are essential to ensure timely and effective care.