15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15313, Beallsville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.54 percent of residents in 15313 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 9.88 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beallsville (ZIP Code 15313)

Considering a move to Beallsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15313), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment based on available transportation options and proximity to relevant medical facilities. It considers the practical realities of getting to and from appointments, weighing factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services. This information aims to help you understand the potential challenges and opportunities in accessing prostate cancer healthcare within this rural community.

The foundation of this score rests on the understanding that early detection and timely treatment are crucial for positive outcomes in prostate cancer. Therefore, the ease and speed with which one can access urological specialists, diagnostic imaging, and treatment centers are vital. The score also acknowledges the potential impact of transportation limitations on a patient's physical and emotional well-being, as navigating complex healthcare systems can be stressful.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Beallsville, nestled in Washington County, is primarily accessed by car. The major thoroughfare is **Pennsylvania Route 267**, which provides a direct route to the nearby town of Waynesburg, approximately 15 miles away. This drive typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Accessing larger medical centers in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area requires longer journeys.

Traveling to Pittsburgh via **Interstate 79** necessitates a drive of approximately 50-60 miles, translating to a travel time of roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential bottlenecks can occur, especially during peak commuting hours or in inclement weather. Another option is to take **U.S. Route 19** to access Pittsburgh, which is a slightly longer route, but can offer an alternative in the event of an accident on I-79.

**Healthcare Access Assessment:**

The nearest hospitals with urology departments and oncology services are located in Waynesburg and the Pittsburgh area. Greene County Memorial Hospital in Waynesburg provides basic healthcare services, including some urological care. For more specialized treatment, patients in Beallsville will likely need to travel to Pittsburgh.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system and Allegheny Health Network (AHN) offer comprehensive cancer care, including advanced prostate cancer treatment options. These facilities are located in various parts of Pittsburgh, requiring different drive times depending on the specific location. UPMC Shadyside and AHN Cancer Institute are among the prominent facilities.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The Greene County Transit Authority (GCTA) provides bus service within Greene County, but the routes and schedules are limited. This service may not be a practical option for regular trips to Pittsburgh for specialized medical appointments.

The GCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the infrequent service and the long travel times make this option less than ideal for those requiring timely medical care. Furthermore, navigating the transfer points and the potential for delays can add to the stress of healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Pittsburgh area, but their availability in Beallsville and surrounding areas is less certain. Securing a ride may require advance planning and could be subject to surge pricing during peak hours.

Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport services. These companies often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-booking. Companies like MedRide and First Transit are examples of medical transportation providers.

**Prostate Cancer Score Calculation:**

Given the transportation limitations, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Beallsville is moderate. While the drive to Waynesburg offers relatively easy access to basic healthcare, accessing specialized prostate cancer care in Pittsburgh presents challenges. The lack of reliable public transportation and the potential reliance on ride-sharing services or medical transportation contribute to the score.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Drive Times:** The distance to Pittsburgh and the potential for traffic congestion significantly impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transportation options reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services affect the score.
* **Medical Transportation:** The cost and availability of medical transport services also play a role.

**Recommendation:**

For individuals considering a move to Beallsville, it is crucial to thoroughly assess their healthcare needs, particularly concerning prostate cancer. Prioritize understanding the transportation options and associated costs. Contacting local healthcare providers and transportation services in advance is essential to determine the feasibility of accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

**Conclusion:**

While Beallsville offers a peaceful rural setting, healthcare access, especially for specialized needs like prostate cancer treatment, requires careful consideration. The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system. Understanding the transportation landscape and proactively arranging for medical appointments is crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes. The decision to move to Beallsville must be weighed against the potential challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those with existing health concerns.