The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16745, Rixford, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
62.26 percent of residents in 16745 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 23.98 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 16745, Rixford, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 33 |
---|---|
People Score | 66 |
Provider Score | 24 |
Hospital Score | 47 |
Travel Score | 31 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 16745 | Rixford | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 15.50 | 15.50 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 40.59 | 40.59 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 43.91 | 43.91 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 16745, Rixford, Pennsylvania
## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 16745
The air in Rixford, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 16745, carries a certain quietude, a sense of rural charm that often belies the complexities of accessing essential healthcare. This analysis, focusing on lung cancer care, aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for potential residents or those considering a move to this area. The objective is to create a "Lung Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering factors such as drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options. This score will help individuals understand the realities of navigating the healthcare system in this specific geographic context.
Our journey begins with the assumption that a lung cancer diagnosis necessitates prompt and consistent access to specialized medical care. This includes initial consultations, diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), biopsies, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments. The availability and accessibility of these services, coupled with the transportation options available, form the core of our Lung Cancer Score.
**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**
For residents of Rixford, the most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Rixford to healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 44, and Pennsylvania Route 346. These roads, while offering scenic views of the surrounding Allegheny National Forest, can become challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying or disrupting access to critical care.
The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy, is UPMC Kane. The drive to Kane from Rixford, primarily via PA-44 and PA-346, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This relatively short commute time contributes positively to the Lung Cancer Score. However, the journey can be significantly impacted by winter weather, common in this region, potentially extending travel times and adding stress to patients already facing a challenging diagnosis.
For more specialized services, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, patients may need to travel further afield to larger medical centers in Erie or Pittsburgh. The drive to Erie, primarily via US-6 and Interstate 86, is a journey of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This longer travel time significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, introducing potential barriers to timely and consistent care. Similarly, a trip to Pittsburgh, involving Interstate 80 and Interstate 79, is a 3-hour and 30-minute drive, further complicating access.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option**
Public transportation options in the area are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Potter County Transportation System (PCTS) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. However, this service primarily serves within Potter County and may not extend to the healthcare facilities in Kane or beyond. The lack of a robust public transit network dramatically lowers the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for those reliant on alternative transportation.
The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles within the PCTS is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability and reliability of this service is essential for those with disabilities. However, the inherent limitations of demand-response services, including scheduling constraints and potential delays, can exacerbate the challenges of accessing timely healthcare appointments.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of the region, but their presence in Rixford and surrounding areas is not guaranteed. Availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments introduces a degree of uncertainty and potential cost implications, impacting the Lung Cancer Score negatively.
Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, but they often come with significant costs, potentially placing a financial burden on patients. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are critical factors in the Lung Cancer Score.
**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**
Beyond transportation, healthcare access encompasses other crucial elements. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within a reasonable distance is essential for early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer. The presence of support groups, cancer centers, and palliative care services within the region also contributes to the overall quality of care. The Lung Cancer Score must consider these factors to provide a holistic assessment of healthcare access.
**Moving to Rixford: A Consideration of Trade-offs**
For individuals considering a move to Rixford, the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access should be carefully considered. While the area offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, the limited transportation options and the distances to specialized medical centers pose significant challenges for those with or at risk of lung cancer. Potential residents should assess their individual needs, consider their ability to drive or access alternative transportation, and factor in the potential costs and complexities of navigating the healthcare system.
**The Lung Cancer Score: A Hypothetical Framework**
The Lung Cancer Score, while hypothetical, could be constructed using a weighted system. Drive times to key medical facilities would carry the most weight, followed by the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. The presence of local healthcare resources, such as primary care physicians and cancer support groups, would also contribute to the score.
A higher score would indicate easier access to healthcare, while a lower score would reflect greater challenges. For ZIP Code 16745, the score would likely be moderate, reflecting the relatively short drive to UPMC Kane, but offset by the limited public transit, potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the longer travel times to more specialized medical centers.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**
In conclusion, navigating the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 16745, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, requires careful consideration of transportation options and the availability of healthcare resources. While the area offers a serene environment, the logistical challenges of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for those without personal vehicles, should not be underestimated. Understanding these complexities is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring the best possible outcomes for individuals facing this challenging disease. The Lung Cancer Score, while a hypothetical construct, serves as a valuable framework for assessing the realities of healthcare access in this unique rural setting.
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