16436, Spring Creek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16436, Spring Creek, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.20 percent of residents in 16436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lecom Health Corry Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spring Creek (ZIP Code 16436)

Spring Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16436), a community nestled in the rolling hills of Crawford County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, the bucolic charm can mask the complexities of **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," explores the **transportation** landscape, evaluating the challenges and opportunities for patients needing treatment. This is vital information for anyone **moving to Spring Creek** or already residing there, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The score considers several factors: drive times to oncology centers, availability of public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the journey from diagnosis to treatment, highlighting potential barriers and offering insights for navigating the system.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Spring Creek is likely Meadville Medical Center, located approximately 15 miles south. The most direct route is via US Route 19, a well-maintained highway that, under normal traffic conditions, translates to a drive time of roughly 20 to 25 minutes. This is a relatively manageable commute, offering a reasonable degree of **healthcare access** for routine appointments and initial consultations. However, it is crucial to consider the impact of weather, particularly during winter months, when snow and ice can significantly extend travel times and potentially impede access.

For specialized oncology services, patients might need to travel further afield. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hamot in Erie, approximately 40 miles northwest, is a major regional provider. The journey involves taking US Route 19 north to Interstate 79, then heading north to Erie. The drive time is generally around 50 to 60 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This longer commute introduces additional considerations, including the cost of fuel, potential for fatigue, and the need for reliable **transportation**.

Another option is the Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute in Erie. The route is similar to UPMC Hamot, involving US Route 19 north to Interstate 79. Drive times are comparable to those of UPMC Hamot. The choice between these two major hospitals often depends on individual preferences, insurance coverage, and the specific services offered.

Public transit options in Spring Creek are limited. Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some service within Crawford County, but routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve Spring Creek. Furthermore, CATA's services are not specifically designed for medical appointments. ADA-accessible buses are available, offering a crucial lifeline for patients with mobility limitations. However, the lack of frequent service and the need for transfers can significantly increase travel times and make it challenging to coordinate appointments.

The CATA route that comes closest to Spring Creek is Route 1. However, it does not directly serve the area. It may require a taxi or ride-share from the nearest stop to reach the patient's home. The limitations of public transit underscore the importance of alternative **transportation** solutions for lung cancer patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Meadville and Erie areas. However, their availability in Spring Creek itself may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Patients should investigate the availability of these services and factor the expense into their overall **healthcare access** plan.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of **transportation**. Several companies operate in the region, including LifeStar Ambulance and STAT MedEvac. These services provide non-emergency medical transport, as well as ambulance services for emergencies. However, these services can be costly, and prior arrangements are often required.

The cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some patients. It is essential to explore insurance coverage and financial assistance programs that may be available to help offset these expenses.

For individuals **moving to Spring Creek**, careful consideration of **transportation** needs is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the challenges of commuting to healthcare facilities. Patients should proactively research their **transportation** options, including the availability of ride-sharing services, the feasibility of public transit, and the potential need for medical transport.

This score is not a definitive judgment of the area's suitability for lung cancer patients. It is an assessment of the **transportation** landscape and the **healthcare access** challenges. The information provided should be used to inform decisions and to plan for the realities of receiving treatment in this rural environment.

The Lung Cancer Score for Spring Creek (ZIP Code 16436) emphasizes the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and consistent access to care. The limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times, and the reliance on private **transportation** underscore the importance of developing a comprehensive **transportation** strategy. This strategy should include exploring all available options, budgeting for **transportation** costs, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and other needs.

The score also highlights the importance of considering the impact of weather and traffic conditions on travel times. Patients should factor in extra time for travel, particularly during winter months. They should also familiarize themselves with alternative routes and emergency contact information.

Finally, it is essential to advocate for improved **healthcare access** in the community. This includes supporting initiatives to expand public transit services, promoting the availability of ride-sharing options, and advocating for policies that support medical transport services. By working together, residents of Spring Creek can improve the quality of life for all, including those facing the challenges of lung cancer.