16059, Valencia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16059, Valencia, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.57 percent of residents in 16059 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ahn Wexford Hospital with a distance of 6.60 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Valencia, PA (ZIP Code 16059)

Considering a move to Valencia, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16059)? Beyond the charming suburban landscape and potential for a tranquil lifestyle, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up focuses on prostate cancer care, analyzing the ease of *transportation* to medical facilities, a crucial factor in early detection and treatment. We’ll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to gauge the accessibility of vital healthcare resources. This score considers the time and effort required to reach urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers, vital components of prostate cancer management.

The very essence of *healthcare access* hinges on your ability to reach it. For residents of Valencia, the primary arteries for travel are **Interstate 79 (I-79)**, a major north-south thoroughfare, and **Route 19**, a bustling commercial corridor. Other key roads include **Route 228**, connecting Valencia to Cranberry Township, and **Bakerstown Road**, providing access to more rural areas. The efficiency of these routes, particularly during peak hours, significantly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score.

The most immediate healthcare options are likely in Cranberry Township, a neighboring municipality. Driving south on I-79 to UPMC Passavant Hospital in McCandless Township typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive urology services, including diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The drive via Route 19 is also an option, but can be slower due to traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.

Moving further afield, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system provides more extensive care. UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Oakland, a leading cancer center, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive, primarily via I-79 South and the Parkway North (I-279). The drive time can be significantly longer during peak commuting hours. This longer travel time negatively impacts the Prostate Cancer Score, as frequent visits for treatment and follow-up become more challenging.

For those without personal vehicles, *public transit* presents an alternative. The Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT) does not offer direct bus service to Valencia. Residents would likely need to drive to a park-and-ride location, such as the one in Cranberry Township, and then utilize bus routes. The 91, 93, and 96 bus routes, with transfers, could potentially provide access to healthcare facilities in the city. However, this adds significant travel time and complexity, potentially making it less feasible for regular medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on PAT buses is generally good, with features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the multiple transfers required, and the potential for delays, can be a significant barrier for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. This aspect further lowers the Prostate Cancer Score, highlighting the limitations of public transit for specialized healthcare needs.

*Ride-sharing* services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another *transportation* option. Availability in Valencia is generally good, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of frequent rides can quickly accumulate, impacting the overall affordability of healthcare. Furthermore, patients undergoing treatment may experience side effects that make ride-sharing less comfortable or practical.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, providing a more tailored experience for patients with specific needs. While these services can be a valuable asset, they come at an additional cost, which needs to be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

The Prostate Cancer Score considers all these factors. A higher score indicates better access to care. In Valencia, the score is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drives to specialized cancer centers. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their cost and potential limitations impact the overall score.

The proximity to healthcare facilities in Cranberry Township, via I-79 and Route 19, provides a solid foundation for the score. However, the need to travel further to UPMC Presbyterian or other major cancer centers in Pittsburgh, and the lack of convenient public transit, reduces the score. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays further contribute to a lower score.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Valencia, PA (16059) is moderately good. While residents have access to basic urological services in nearby Cranberry Township, access to comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy and specialized oncology services, requires longer travel times. The lack of robust public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing services add to the challenges.

For individuals *moving to Valencia*, this assessment underscores the importance of considering *transportation* needs when evaluating healthcare access. While the suburban setting and quality of life are attractive, ensuring convenient access to specialized medical care is crucial, especially for managing a condition like prostate cancer. Residents should factor in the cost of *transportation*, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of support services when planning their healthcare strategy.

The Prostate Cancer Score is not a definitive measure but a guide to understanding the accessibility of healthcare resources. It encourages residents to proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the realities of *transportation* and the importance of timely access to medical care. Understanding these factors allows residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care.