15341, Holbrook, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15341, Holbrook, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.09 percent of residents in 15341 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Washington Health System Greene with a distance of 10.48 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Holbrook, PA (ZIP Code 15341)

Holbrook, Pennsylvania, a quiet corner of Greene County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for men facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 15341, providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" that reflects the ease of reaching essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, crucial factors for individuals navigating treatment and follow-up appointments.

The journey to healthcare in Holbrook is largely defined by its rural character. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to access medical facilities. The primary thoroughfares for travel include **Pennsylvania Route 21** (running east-west), **Pennsylvania Route 188** (north-south), and various county roads. These roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

Drive times to major healthcare providers are a critical component of the Prostate Cancer Score. The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is **WVU Medicine Greene Memorial Hospital** in Waynesburg, approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive via **PA-21** and **PA-188**. This proximity offers a significant advantage for immediate medical needs. However, for specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center** in Pittsburgh, a renowned cancer treatment facility, is a more substantial undertaking. The drive from Holbrook to Pittsburgh typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route involves taking **PA-21** east to **Interstate 79** north. This journey requires careful planning, especially for frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Holbrook are limited. Greene County offers a public transit system, the **Greene County Transit (GCT)**, providing demand-response services. However, the frequency and route availability are restricted, primarily serving essential trips within the county. The GCT may offer transportation to medical appointments, but scheduling requires advance notice. The accessibility of the GCT for individuals with disabilities, including those undergoing prostate cancer treatment, is a crucial consideration. The GCT is legally obligated to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

Navigating the GCT system necessitates understanding its limitations. The service operates on a schedule, and wait times can be significant. The service is not designed for spontaneous trips. For individuals with mobility issues, the GCT’s door-to-door service is a benefit, but the overall time commitment for each trip must be considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Pittsburgh area. However, their presence in Holbrook is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density, and wait times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not ideal. The cost can also be a factor, particularly for longer trips to Pittsburgh.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. Companies like **MedTrans** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services can transport patients to and from appointments, including those involving wheelchairs or stretchers. The cost of these services is higher than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of support.

For individuals considering moving to Holbrook or seeking to understand the healthcare landscape, the availability of medical transportation services is an important factor. These services bridge the gap created by the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Holbrook, PA (ZIP Code 15341) is a nuanced evaluation. The proximity of Greene Memorial Hospital offers a positive starting point. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. The drive to Pittsburgh for specialized care adds significant travel time and logistical complexity.

The availability of ride-sharing is inconsistent, and the cost can be a barrier. Medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, but at a higher cost. The score must also consider the impact of weather conditions, which can affect travel times and access to healthcare.

The score also considers the patient’s individual circumstances. For individuals with strong social support networks, carpooling or assistance from family and friends can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. For those without such support, the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing become more pronounced.

Therefore, the Prostate Cancer Score for Holbrook, PA (ZIP Code 15341) is moderately favorable. While immediate medical needs can be addressed locally, access to specialized cancer care requires significant travel. The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial factor, but the cost and scheduling requirements must be carefully considered. Planning and preparation are key for individuals navigating prostate cancer treatment in this rural setting.

This assessment underscores the importance of proactive planning for individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis in Holbrook. Understanding the transportation landscape, considering the limitations of public transit, and exploring the options for medical transportation are crucial steps in ensuring timely access to care. The score is not a definitive judgment but a guide, encouraging a thorough evaluation of individual needs and circumstances.