17243, Orbisonia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17243, Orbisonia, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.20 percent of residents in 17243 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Huntingdon with a distance of 17.95 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Orbisonia (ZIP Code 17243)

Orbisonia, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Huntingdon County, presents a unique landscape for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The rural nature of this community, while offering scenic beauty, significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly concerning **transportation**. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for patients in ZIP code 17243, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the available **transportation** options to vital medical facilities. The goal is to equip individuals, especially those considering **moving to Orbisonia**, with a clear understanding of the realities of accessing specialized care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each category is evaluated, and a composite score is derived to reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing crucial medical appointments and treatments. This assessment aims to be a practical guide, acknowledging the complexities of navigating healthcare in a rural environment.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Backbone of Access**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Orbisonia is the personal vehicle. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Huntingdon and Altoona, necessitating significant driving. From Orbisonia, the most direct route to Huntingdon often involves taking Pennsylvania Route 994, a two-lane road winding through the countryside. This journey typically spans approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Traveling to Altoona, a city with more extensive medical resources, requires a longer drive. The most common route involves taking Route 994 to Route 22, a major east-west highway. This leg of the trip, spanning approximately 45-60 minutes, presents its own challenges, especially during peak hours or inclement weather. The **transportation** infrastructure, while adequate, is not designed for high-volume traffic, potentially adding to patient stress.

The drive to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, another option, is approximately 40-50 minutes via Route 994 and Route 322. This facility offers some cancer services, potentially reducing the need for travel to Huntingdon or Altoona for certain appointments. However, the availability of specialized oncology services might still necessitate travel to larger centers. These travel times are crucial considerations when evaluating the feasibility of **moving to Orbisonia** for individuals with lung cancer or at high risk.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in Orbisonia are severely limited. Huntingdon County operates a public transit system, but its service area and frequency are restricted. The specific routes and schedules may not be readily accessible to the residents of Orbisonia, and even if a route exists, it may not align with the needs of cancer patients, who require frequent and timely appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor. Patients undergoing treatment may experience mobility issues, making accessible **transportation** essential. While the Huntingdon County system strives to provide accessible options, the availability and reliability of these services in Orbisonia require thorough investigation. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score," highlighting the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while increasingly prevalent in urban areas, are not readily available in Orbisonia. This absence creates a significant barrier for patients who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. The lack of these services further exacerbates the **transportation** challenges.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation** provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and comfortably. Several national and regional providers operate in the area, including First Transit and LogistiCare. However, the cost of these services can be a significant burden, especially for patients with limited financial resources.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services directly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." Patients must research and budget for these services, factoring in the frequency of appointments and the distance to medical facilities. The presence of a robust medical transport network is essential, but its cost and accessibility are critical considerations.

**"Lung Cancer Score" Assessment**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options in Orbisonia, the "Lung Cancer Score" reflects a moderate to high level of difficulty in accessing lung cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant challenges. The absence of readily available ride-sharing services further compounds the difficulties.

The score is tempered by the availability of medical transport services, which offer a crucial lifeline for patients. However, the cost of these services and the potential for long travel times to specialized facilities remain significant factors.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Those Considering Moving to Orbisonia**

Individuals considering **moving to Orbisonia**, especially those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, should carefully evaluate the **transportation** landscape. It is crucial to:

* **Assess Personal Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate the ability to drive safely and comfortably, considering the frequency of medical appointments and the potential impact of treatment side effects.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transport services in the area. Obtain quotes and understand the coverage provided by insurance plans.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Identify potential support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can provide **transportation** assistance.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Evaluate the proximity to cancer care facilities and the ease of access via the most direct routes, including Route 994 and Route 22.
* **Plan for Unexpected Circumstances:** Develop contingency plans for weather-related delays, vehicle breakdowns, or other unforeseen circumstances that could impact **transportation**.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the **transportation** landscape in Orbisonia for lung cancer care requires careful planning and resourcefulness. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the challenges faced by patients in this rural community. While the scenic beauty and peaceful lifestyle of Orbisonia are appealing, individuals must acknowledge and address the limitations in **healthcare access** before making a move. Thorough research, proactive planning, and a strong support network are essential for successfully managing lung cancer care in this unique environment.