15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.06 percent of residents in 15083 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 7.38 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15083

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like prostate cancer, is multifaceted. It involves not just the clinical expertise of physicians but also the practicalities of transportation. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 15083 (Sutersville, Pennsylvania), assessing its impact on healthcare access, specifically for individuals facing the challenges of prostate cancer. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, providing a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score” reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical care.

Moving to Sutersville, a small borough nestled in Westmoreland County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness necessitates a thorough examination of its healthcare accessibility. The ability to reach specialists, undergo treatments, and attend follow-up appointments significantly impacts the quality of life for those battling prostate cancer. This score aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation hurdles residents might encounter.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, the primary mode of transportation remains the personal vehicle. In 15083, the most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local road network. The primary artery for accessing healthcare outside of Sutersville is Route 31, which connects the borough to the east-west corridor. This highway provides access to Greensburg, home to Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, a crucial destination for specialized medical care.

The drive to Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 31 and then utilizing local roads to reach the hospital complex. The time can fluctuate significantly during peak hours, adding stress for patients needing timely medical attention.

Further afield, the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) offers access to Pittsburgh, a major metropolitan area boasting comprehensive medical facilities. However, the drive to Pittsburgh, via Route 31 to the turnpike, then to the city, can easily exceed an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. This extended travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for those undergoing treatment regimens requiring frequent visits.

The condition of the roads is a factor. Route 31 is generally well-maintained, but local roads can be subject to potholes and other hazards, particularly during winter months. This can impact the comfort and safety of patients, especially those experiencing physical limitations related to their condition or treatment. The availability of parking at these healthcare facilities is another consideration, as parking can be limited and costly in certain areas.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 15083 are limited. The Westmoreland Transit Authority (WTA) provides bus service in the county, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. The WTA does offer some routes that may serve Sutersville, however, the frequency of these routes is often limited, and the service may not be available during evenings or weekends.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The WTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times can still hinder healthcare access.

The nearest bus stop may be a considerable distance from a patient's home, adding to the burden of travel. The reliance on public transit can also lead to increased travel times, potentially impacting the ability to arrive on time for appointments and treatments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation solution. However, the availability of these services can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can significantly increase costs. This can be a financial burden for patients, especially those on fixed incomes or facing significant medical expenses.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services may require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical needs.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Considering the transportation landscape in 15083, the "Prostate Cancer Score" reflects a mixed picture. While the borough benefits from its proximity to major roadways, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services offers some flexibility, but the cost and availability can be significant drawbacks.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to major healthcare providers, with potential for increased travel times during peak hours.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options with infrequent routes and potential for long wait times.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services available, but with potential for higher costs and variable availability.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical transportation services available, but with potential for advance booking and cost considerations.
* **Road Conditions:** Generally well-maintained roads, but with potential for hazards on local roads.

**Overall, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for 15083 is moderate.** While residents can access healthcare, the transportation challenges necessitate careful planning and potentially increased costs. Individuals considering moving to Sutersville or currently residing there, and facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, should carefully evaluate their transportation options and consider the potential impact on their healthcare journey. Proactive planning, including exploring all available transportation alternatives and understanding potential costs, is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective medical care. The ability to secure reliable transportation is an essential component of successful prostate cancer management.