16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 16224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 10.90 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16224

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is a complex equation. It involves not only the quality of medical facilities but also the accessibility of those facilities. For residents of ZIP Code 16224, encompassing Fairmount City, Pennsylvania, this write-up provides a comprehensive ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This analysis considers the drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, painting a detailed picture of what it means to commute to healthcare in this rural community.

Fairmount City, nestled in the heart of Clarion County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area's rural character dictates a dependence on personal vehicles, but understanding the alternative transportation options is crucial for residents, especially those with mobility limitations or who may be facing the physical and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' aims to provide a practical guide for navigating the healthcare landscape, offering insights into the transportation realities that shape the patient experience.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Transportation**

For many residents of 16224, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the local roadways. The primary artery serving the area is **Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28)**, which connects Fairmount City to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is available. Travel times along PA-28 can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. During peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, delays are common.

Another important route is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, which provides access to larger medical centers located further afield. While I-80 offers faster travel times, it also introduces the potential for longer distances and associated costs, including fuel and tolls. The drive to Pittsburgh, a major medical hub, can take approximately two hours, depending on traffic. The drive to the nearest hospitals in Clarion or Brookville, however, is generally much shorter, usually under 30 minutes, depending on the specific destination.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While PA-28 and I-80 are generally well-maintained, secondary roads may experience seasonal deterioration, particularly during winter months. This can impact travel times and the safety of patients, especially those undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects. Therefore, understanding the potential for delays and considering alternative routes is essential.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation options in 16224 are limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are often infrequent. While the CCTA aims to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible transportation may be restricted, making it challenging for individuals with mobility issues to utilize public transit for healthcare appointments.

The CCTA's routes may connect Fairmount City to neighboring towns like Clarion and Brookville, where some healthcare facilities are located. However, these routes may not directly serve all medical destinations, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the limited operating hours of the CCTA may restrict access to early morning or late afternoon appointments, which are often necessary for cancer treatments and follow-up care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas of Clarion County, including Fairmount City, but their availability may be inconsistent. The frequency of service can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. This makes relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments risky, especially for those with urgent needs or who require regular transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more reliable option. Companies like **Medicaid Transportation Services** and **First Transit** may operate in the area, offering specialized vehicles and trained drivers. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of medical transportation may be limited, and it is essential to book appointments well in advance.

**The ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ and Healthcare Access**

The ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ for 16224 must consider the interplay of these transportation factors. While drive times to nearby hospitals are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for those without access to a car or with mobility limitations. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services helps fill the gaps, but their reliability and cost must be factored into the overall assessment.

For residents of Fairmount City considering moving to the area, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as their access to a vehicle, their ability to drive, and their reliance on public transit or other transportation services. They should also research the availability of specialized medical transportation services and the potential costs associated with these services.

The ‘Prostate Cancer Score’ is not just about the distance to healthcare facilities; it is about the ability to reach those facilities safely, reliably, and affordably. The challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation infrastructure in 16224 must be weighed carefully to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the medical care they need, especially when facing the complexities of a prostate cancer diagnosis. This comprehensive evaluation of transportation infrastructure is crucial for improving healthcare access and ensuring the well-being of the community.