16121, Farrell, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16121, Farrell, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.22 percent of residents in 16121 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Sharon Regional Health System with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Farrell, PA (ZIP Code 16121)

Considering a move to Farrell, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16121), and concerned about prostate cancer care? Understanding healthcare access is crucial. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to access urological specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility within and around Farrell.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” isn’t a formal medical metric. Instead, it’s a qualitative evaluation, considering the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare services related to prostate cancer. This assessment aims to provide a clear understanding of transportation challenges and opportunities for residents of Farrell, facilitating informed decisions about healthcare access.

Farrell, a small city in Mercer County, presents unique transportation considerations. Its location, nestled near the Ohio border, influences healthcare access. The area boasts a mix of rural and suburban characteristics, impacting the availability and efficiency of transportation options.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation. Accessing urological care often necessitates a car. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access include the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**, the **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, and **U.S. Route 62**. Local roads like **East State Street**, **Broadway Avenue**, and **Sharon-New Castle Road** are essential for navigating within Farrell and connecting to neighboring communities.

For routine check-ups and initial consultations, local urologists within a 15-20 minute drive are ideal. This timeframe allows for quick access, minimizing stress and maximizing convenience. The nearest urology practices are likely located in Sharon or Hermitage, PA. Driving to these locations via **East State Street** or **Broadway Avenue** is generally straightforward, with moderate traffic.

Specialized care, such as radiation oncology or surgical interventions, may require travel to larger regional medical centers. These facilities are often located in Youngstown, Ohio (approximately 30-45 minutes via **U.S. Route 62** and **I-680**), or Pittsburgh, PA (approximately 1.5-2 hours via **I-80** and **I-376**). These longer drive times demand careful planning, accounting for traffic, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Farrell is limited. The **Shenango Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA)** provides bus service within Mercer County. While the SVTA offers routes, their coverage in Farrell and surrounding areas might be infrequent. The routes, specific numbers not readily available, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. The SVTA is mandated to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the frequency and route coverage may still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Relying solely on public transit for frequent appointments or urgent care might prove difficult.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Ride-sharing costs can also accumulate, making them a potentially expensive option for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services are designed specifically for individuals requiring assistance. These services, like **Medicaid-approved non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)**, offer door-to-door service, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. NEMT is often a covered benefit for qualifying individuals. Researching local providers is essential.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Healthcare access extends beyond physical transportation. The availability of urologists, oncologists, and specialized treatment facilities within a reasonable distance is critical. Researching the specific providers, their specialties, and insurance acceptance is essential.

Consider the availability of support services. Support groups, patient navigators, and resources for financial assistance can ease the burden of a prostate cancer diagnosis. These services may be offered through local hospitals, cancer centers, or national organizations.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Farrell (16121):**

Considering the factors above, Farrell's "Prostate Cancer Score" is moderate. While local urology practices are relatively accessible, specialized care often requires longer drives. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing availability can vary. Medical transport services offer a viable option for those who qualify.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

Before moving to Farrell, prospective residents should:

* **Research local urology practices:** Identify providers accepting their insurance and assess their proximity to potential residences.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Determine eligibility for NEMT services and identify local providers.
* **Assess ride-sharing availability:** Understand the potential costs and limitations of ride-sharing services.
* **Consider the proximity to major medical centers:** Factor in drive times to Youngstown and Pittsburgh for specialized care.
* **Explore support services:** Identify local support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance resources.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare in Farrell requires careful planning. While the area offers access to essential services, transportation limitations necessitate proactive research and planning. By understanding the available transportation options and healthcare resources, residents can make informed decisions and ensure timely access to prostate cancer care. This “Prostate Cancer Score” write-up serves as a starting point for assessing healthcare access in Farrell, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and well-being.