15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.45 percent of residents in 15938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Altoona with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: ZIP Code 15938**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like prostate cancer, demands more than medical expertise. It requires a thorough understanding of transportation options, ensuring timely and accessible appointments. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 15938, evaluates healthcare access concerning prostate cancer treatment, focusing on transportation modalities and their impact on patient care. It considers the practicalities of getting to and from appointments, a critical factor in treatment adherence and overall well-being.

The primary focus is on access to urology specialists, radiation oncology centers, and surgical facilities capable of treating prostate cancer. We will assess the available options for individuals seeking care within and outside the immediate vicinity of ZIP Code 15938, accounting for the complexities of transportation. This includes private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Arteries of Care**

For many residents, the private vehicle remains the cornerstone of transportation. From ZIP Code 15938, access to specialized prostate cancer care often involves travel along key roadways. The most direct routes to the nearest major medical centers, like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, typically involve navigating local roads, including Scalp Avenue and Elton Road, connecting to the US-219.

The drive to Conemaugh, a regional hub, generally takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. This timeframe is a crucial consideration for appointments, allowing for prompt arrival and minimizing stress. The US-219 provides a vital link to other regional healthcare facilities.

For those seeking specialized care or second opinions, travel to Pittsburgh, approximately 70 miles west, is a common scenario. This journey requires using the US-219 to the PA-56, and then onto the PA-271 to the PA-56. The drive to Pittsburgh can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for post-operative appointments or radiation therapy sessions.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transit options in and around ZIP Code 15938 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with the needs of patients undergoing prostate cancer treatment. Direct routes to major medical centers from this area are rare.

The CCTA operates several routes, but their frequency and coverage may be insufficient for regular medical appointments. For instance, patients might need to transfer between multiple routes to reach their destination, increasing travel time and the potential for delays. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limitations of the public transit network necessitate exploring alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or lacking access to a private vehicle. However, the availability of these services in ZIP Code 15938 may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could impact affordability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another avenue for healthcare access. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Companies such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are often contracted by insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation.

**Healthcare Access and the Impact of Transportation**

The accessibility of healthcare directly impacts patient outcomes. Prostate cancer treatment often involves multiple appointments, including diagnostic tests, consultations, surgery, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. The ability to attend these appointments consistently and on time is essential for effective treatment and improved survival rates.

Transportation barriers, such as long travel times, limited public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing services, can significantly hinder healthcare access. These barriers can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress for patients and their families.

**Moving to Lilly: A Consideration of Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering a move to ZIP Code 15938, the availability of healthcare access should be a critical factor. While the area offers a degree of proximity to regional medical centers, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services should be carefully considered.

The decision to move to Lilly, or any location, requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. This assessment should include the availability of specialized prostate cancer care, the ease of transportation to medical appointments, and the potential financial implications of transportation costs.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 15938 highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers some advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of relying on private vehicles or ride-sharing services require attention.

Improving healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 15938 necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring access to affordable medical transportation. By addressing these transportation barriers, we can improve the lives of individuals facing prostate cancer and enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.