16510, Erie, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16510, Erie, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.74 percent of residents in 16510 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 3.75 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 16510

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a complex one. It's not just about the quality of medical professionals, but also the ease with which a patient can reach them. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 16510 in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Erie.

The 16510 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Erie, a city nestled on the shores of Lake Erie. The area is characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial zones. This geographical layout significantly impacts the availability of transportation options and, consequently, healthcare access. The presence of major roadways like Interstate 90 (I-90), the primary east-west artery, and Interstate 79 (I-79), running north-south, shapes the transportation landscape.

For individuals who drive, the commute to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. The primary destination for lung cancer treatment in Erie is likely to be UPMC Hamot, a major hospital located at 201 State Street. Driving from various points within 16510 to UPMC Hamot typically involves navigating local roads and potentially utilizing I-90 or I-79 depending on the origin point.

From the western edge of 16510, a drive to UPMC Hamot might involve using West 38th Street or West Ridge Road, connecting to Peach Street, and then heading south to State Street. This trip could take approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Residents in the eastern part of the ZIP code might use East 38th Street or East Lake Road, connecting to State Street via various routes. This could be a similar drive time, but traffic congestion during peak hours could extend the journey.

For those relying on public transit, the Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides bus services throughout the city. Several routes serve the 16510 area, with the potential to connect to UPMC Hamot. The primary routes serving the hospital area are the #6 (Peach Street), the #1 (State Street), and the #15 (West 26th Street). These routes offer varying frequencies, with some running every 30 minutes during peak hours and less frequently during evenings and weekends.

The EMTA system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and accessible features. However, the overall journey time using public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially taking 30-45 minutes or more, depending on the origin and transfer points. The availability of bus stops and the distance from a patient's home to a stop also play a critical role in healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Erie, offering another transportation option. The convenience of these services can be a significant advantage, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a barrier, especially for frequent trips to treatment centers. The availability of drivers and the surge pricing during peak hours are also factors to consider.

Medical transport services specifically designed for healthcare appointments are also available. Companies like Senior Life and other local providers offer transportation for medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained staff. These services can be particularly helpful for patients who require assistance getting to and from their appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 16510, therefore, is not a simple numerical value but a nuanced assessment. It considers the following: drive times to UPMC Hamot from various points within the ZIP code; the frequency and accessibility of EMTA routes; the availability and cost of ride-sharing services; and the availability of medical transport options.

The score is influenced by the geography of the area, the presence of major roadways, and the efficiency of the public transit system. The score is also affected by the individual patient's circumstances, including their physical abilities, financial resources, and access to support networks.

For individuals considering moving to Erie, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides valuable insight into the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact on treatment adherence.

The score is also a dynamic metric, subject to change based on factors such as traffic patterns, public transit improvements, and the availability of ride-sharing services. Regular updates are crucial to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 16510, while not perfect, offers a valuable framework for understanding healthcare access in the area. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in lung cancer treatment and provides a foundation for informed decision-making for residents and those considering relocating to Erie. The score emphasizes the need for ongoing improvements in transportation infrastructure and services to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents, especially those battling a serious illness like lung cancer.