16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16217, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.72 percent of residents in 16217 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 14.96 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Cooksburg, PA (ZIP Code 16217)

The serene beauty of Cooksburg, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of the Allegheny National Forest, offers a tranquil escape. For those contemplating a move to this idyllic locale, understanding healthcare access, particularly concerning prostate cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 16217, evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a critical factor for informed decision-making.

This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, all vital components of healthcare access. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering potential residents to assess their ability to navigate the healthcare landscape, specifically concerning prostate cancer care. The ability to readily access screening, diagnosis, and treatment is a significant quality-of-life consideration.

The journey to quality healthcare is often measured in minutes and miles. For residents of Cooksburg, the primary medical facilities offering urological services, including prostate cancer care, are located outside the immediate ZIP code. The nearest options are in Clarion, DuBois, and Brookville. Accessing these facilities necessitates understanding the local transportation infrastructure.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. From Cooksburg, the most direct route to Clarion involves traveling south on **PA-36** and then west on **US-322**. This journey, approximately 25 miles, typically takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The road conditions are generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

To reach DuBois, the route involves traveling north on **PA-36** and then west on **I-80**. This trip, roughly 40 miles, usually takes about an hour, but can be longer due to potential traffic on the interstate. Brookville, situated to the west, is accessible via **PA-36** and **US-322**, a journey of approximately 20 miles and 30-40 minutes.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The availability of public transit directly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Currently, there is no established fixed-route public bus service that directly serves Cooksburg. This lack of public transit is a significant challenge for individuals needing to access healthcare facilities.

However, the Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides demand-response transportation services. These services, typically requiring advance booking, offer a potential solution for accessing healthcare appointments. However, the availability and scheduling constraints of these services can be a barrier to timely care. Information on ADA accessibility of CCTA services should be obtained directly from the authority.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the surrounding areas, including Clarion, DuBois, and Brookville. Their presence provides an alternative transportation solution, but their availability in Cooksburg itself may be limited. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can affect the reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Several providers offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and assistance with mobility.

The availability of these services in Cooksburg and the surrounding areas is crucial. Residents should research and identify local providers, inquiring about their service area, pricing, and availability. Booking in advance is generally required, particularly for appointments outside of regular business hours.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Cooksburg, PA (16217) is influenced by the following factors: the relatively long drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. While medical transportation services provide an alternative, their availability and cost must be considered.

This score is not a static number, but rather a reflection of the overall accessibility of healthcare resources. It is essential to understand the nuances of each transportation option to make informed decisions about healthcare. The score is meant to be a starting point for further investigation and should be supplemented with individual research and consultation with healthcare providers.

The score is also subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, the expansion of public transportation, or the introduction of new ride-sharing services. The evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare access requires ongoing assessment and adaptation.

For those considering a move to Cooksburg, proactive planning is essential. Before relocating, prospective residents should investigate the availability of urological services in the surrounding areas. Contacting local healthcare providers to inquire about their services and appointment scheduling is crucial.

Researching and understanding the transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, is vital. This includes contacting the CCTA to inquire about services and ADA accessibility. Establishing relationships with transportation providers and pre-arranging transportation for appointments is highly recommended.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Cooksburg, PA (16217) highlights the need for careful consideration of healthcare access. While the natural beauty and tranquility of Cooksburg are undeniable, the distance to healthcare facilities and the limited transportation options present challenges.

However, with careful planning, proactive research, and the utilization of available resources, residents can effectively navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure access to quality prostate cancer care. The ability to adapt to the local transportation landscape is a key component of successful integration into the Cooksburg community.

The ability to proactively manage transportation needs is critical for maintaining healthcare access. This includes scheduling appointments strategically, considering the travel time, and planning for potential delays. The more proactive a resident is, the better they can manage their healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Cooksburg serves as a reminder that healthcare access is a multifaceted issue. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the local transportation infrastructure, proactive planning, and a willingness to adapt to the unique challenges of rural living.