15960, Twin Rocks, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 15960, Twin Rocks, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.51 percent of residents in 15960 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 13.69 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15960**

The rural charm of Twin Rocks, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 15960, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the serenity of this Cambria County community presents a unique challenge: accessing specialized healthcare, particularly for conditions like prostate cancer. This write-up assesses the accessibility of prostate cancer care from Twin Rocks, considering transportation options and the associated travel times. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty residents face in obtaining timely diagnosis and treatment. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Twin Rocks, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The primary factor influencing the Prostate Cancer Score is the time it takes to reach a urologist, a key specialist for prostate cancer care. The closest significant medical facilities are in Johnstown, approximately 15 miles away. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. From Twin Rocks, the most direct route to Johnstown involves taking **PA-271 South** to **US-219 South**. This drive, under ideal traffic conditions, typically takes around 25-35 minutes. However, this time can fluctuate significantly depending on weather, especially during winter months, and the time of day. Rush hour, particularly weekdays, can extend travel times, impacting healthcare access.

Alternative routes exist, but they generally add to the commute. For example, one could take **PA-53 South** to **US-219 South**, which is slightly longer. Another option is to use local roads, but these are generally less well-maintained and could increase travel time. The quality of roads, particularly in rural areas, can also impact travel times.

Public transportation options are limited in this area. The Greater Johnstown School District provides school bus services, but these are not accessible to the general public. The Johnstown Area Regional Transportation Authority (JARTA) offers bus routes within Johnstown, but their reach into Twin Rocks is minimal. This means public transit is not a viable option for most residents of 15960 seeking prostate cancer care.

The absence of robust public transit highlights a critical aspect of healthcare access: the reliance on personal vehicles. This creates challenges for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive due to age or disability, or face financial constraints. The lack of public transit is a significant negative factor in the Prostate Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, but their availability in Twin Rocks is less consistent. The response time for a ride-share can be longer in rural areas, potentially delaying access to healthcare. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent appointments related to prostate cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are an option. However, the availability of these services and their coverage by insurance plans vary. These services are often booked in advance, potentially creating a delay in accessing care. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant financial burden.

The distance to the nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy and surgical oncology, is another critical factor. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown is the primary provider in the area. This hospital offers a full range of cancer services, including those for prostate cancer. The drive time to Conemaugh is approximately the same as to a urologist's office, between 25-35 minutes.

The Prostate Cancer Score also considers the availability of diagnostic imaging, such as MRI and CT scans, essential for prostate cancer diagnosis and staging. These services are available at Conemaugh and other medical facilities in Johnstown. The time to access these services is directly related to the travel time to Johnstown.

The overall Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 15960 is moderately challenging. The primary obstacle is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. While the drive to Johnstown is relatively short, the lack of public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost of medical transport create barriers to healthcare access. This score considers the time to reach a urologist, the availability of diagnostic services, and the access to comprehensive cancer care.

For individuals considering moving to Twin Rocks, this score underscores the importance of planning for healthcare needs. Assessing the availability of transportation, understanding insurance coverage for medical transport, and establishing relationships with local medical providers are crucial steps. The score emphasizes the need for proactive healthcare planning.

The quality of life in Twin Rocks is undeniable. However, the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. For residents, especially those with health concerns, having a reliable transportation plan is essential. The Prostate Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the importance of assessing healthcare access when making a residential decision.