16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.66 percent of residents in 16124 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 7.30 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 16124**

The quaint charm of Fredonia, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP code 16124, might beckon with promises of peaceful living. However, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis like prostate cancer, demand a deeper look. This assessment explores the transportation landscape surrounding medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat prostate cancer, offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those considering a move or already residing in this community.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and convenient access to care. A high score signifies superior accessibility, while a lower score flags potential difficulties. This analysis aims to empower residents and prospective newcomers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Fredonia is the automobile. The efficiency of reaching specialized medical care often hinges on the time spent behind the wheel. For prostate cancer care, this typically involves visits to urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers, potentially necessitating frequent appointments.

The primary arteries of travel are US Route 19 and Pennsylvania Route 58. Traveling south on US-19, the drive to UPMC Jameson Hospital in New Castle, Pennsylvania, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, is approximately a 30-45 minute journey, depending on traffic. This drive is generally straightforward, but rush hour congestion could extend travel times.

Heading north on US-19 presents another option. The drive to Grove City Medical Center, a UPMC facility, is a shorter 20-30 minute trip. While Grove City may offer some oncology services, more complex prostate cancer treatments might necessitate a referral to a larger facility like UPMC Jameson or even the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via I-79.

Pennsylvania Route 58 provides an alternative route, particularly for those residing in the eastern part of Fredonia. However, it often involves navigating smaller roads and intersections, potentially adding to travel time. The condition of these roads and the impact of weather conditions, especially during the harsh Pennsylvania winters, are important considerations.

The drive times, while manageable, introduce a layer of complexity. The "Prostate Cancer Score" reflects the moderate accessibility offered by these drive-time dynamics.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 16124 are limited. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) oversees public transit in the area, but the service is primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system operates on a door-to-door basis, making it potentially suitable for those with mobility limitations.

However, the demand-response nature of the service introduces scheduling constraints. Appointments must be coordinated with the transit provider, potentially requiring significant advance notice. Moreover, the service area may be limited, and the availability of rides during evenings and weekends could be restricted.

ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall limitations of the public transit network significantly impact the "Prostate Cancer Score." The lack of readily available, fixed-route options places a considerable burden on individuals without access to personal vehicles.

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

The emergence of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered alternative transportation solutions. However, their availability in Fredonia is not guaranteed. Ride-sharing services are dependent on driver availability, which can be inconsistent in rural areas.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, represent another option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, particularly for those who are unable to drive themselves.

The cost of medical transport services can be substantial, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare. The "Prostate Cancer Score" acknowledges the potential of these services but also factors in their limitations, including cost and availability.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" and Recommendations**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 16124 is **moderate**. While the proximity to UPMC facilities in New Castle and Grove City offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Fredonia, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those with prostate cancer or a family history of the disease should carefully evaluate the drive times to medical facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** If possible, consider residing closer to medical facilities.
* **Explore carpooling:** Coordinate with friends, family, or community members for rides to appointments.
* **Utilize medical transport:** If needed, explore the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support efforts to expand and enhance public transit options in the area.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments well in advance and factor in travel time and potential delays.
* **Understand insurance coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers transportation costs.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more nuanced understanding of healthcare access in Fredonia. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services, ultimately ensuring that residents have timely and convenient access to the care they need. The decision to move to Fredonia or remain there is complex, but with careful consideration of these transportation factors, individuals can make informed choices regarding their healthcare needs.