15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.35 percent of residents in 15955 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Access to Care in Sidman, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15955)**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant one. For individuals contemplating a move to Sidman, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15955), and particularly those concerned about prostate cancer care, understanding the local transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a detailed "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services.

Sidman, a small community nestled in the heart of Cambria County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the realities of accessing prostate cancer care in this specific ZIP code, empowering informed decision-making.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary means of transportation in and out of Sidman is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The region is characterized by a network of roadways that connect residents to larger towns and cities where specialized medical services are located. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 56, a crucial east-west thoroughfare.

Traveling east on Route 56 leads to Johnstown, the primary hub for medical care in the area. The drive to UPMC Altoona Hospital, a comprehensive healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers advanced urological services, including prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Alternatively, heading west on Route 56 offers access to Ebensburg, the county seat. While Ebensburg offers some medical facilities, the drive is generally less critical for specialized prostate cancer care than Johnstown. The drive time to Ebensburg is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Other roads, such as Route 219, also provide access to Johnstown, although the drive time might be slightly longer. However, these routes can be useful in case of traffic congestion on Route 56. The condition of the roads and the presence of seasonal weather conditions, especially during winter, can impact travel times and should be factored into the assessment.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation in Sidman and the surrounding areas is limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but these routes are often infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the "Prostate Cancer Score," as it impacts those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

The CCTA operates several routes that may provide access to Johnstown. However, these routes often require transfers and may not operate during evenings or weekends, which can be problematic for appointments or emergencies. Detailed route information, including schedules and accessibility features, is crucial for evaluating the practicality of public transit.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. The CCTA is required to provide accessible buses. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating the system with mobility limitations should be carefully assessed.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Sidman is less certain. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and the potential for delays.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for those needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation for medical appointments and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) and First Transit may operate in the area, but it's essential to verify their service area and availability in Sidman. The cost of these services and the need for advance booking are also important considerations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Sidman considers the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score reflects the overall ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services, including urology clinics, radiation oncology centers, and surgical facilities.

The proximity to Johnstown and the presence of UPMC Altoona Hospital significantly improve the score. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation services detract from the overall score.

**Specific Considerations for Prostate Cancer Care**

For individuals with prostate cancer, the "Prostate Cancer Score" must consider the specific needs of their care. Regular appointments with a urologist, potential radiation therapy, and surgical procedures all require reliable transportation.

The availability of specialists, the proximity of treatment centers, and the ease of accessing support services are all critical factors. The score also evaluates the availability of support groups, patient education resources, and other services that can improve the quality of life for those living with prostate cancer.

**Moving to Sidman: A Transportation Perspective**

For those considering moving to Sidman, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the practicality of accessing healthcare services.

Individuals who are able to drive and have access to a reliable vehicle will find it easier to navigate the region. However, those who rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services should carefully assess the available options and plan accordingly.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about empowering informed decision-making. It provides a clear picture of the transportation realities in Sidman, enabling individuals to make choices that best suit their needs and circumstances.