16226, Ford City, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16226, Ford City, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.02 percent of residents in 16226 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 3.60 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ford City (ZIP Code 16226)

The prostate cancer score for Ford City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16226) is a complex equation. It considers more than just the presence of healthcare facilities. It weighs the accessibility of those facilities, factoring in the availability and efficiency of transportation options. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for individuals considering a move to Ford City, particularly those concerned about prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

Ford City, a borough nestled along the Allegheny River in Armstrong County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area's relative isolation dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of commutes. This impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal transportation or facing mobility challenges. The availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services becomes crucial.

The primary roadways serving Ford City are Pennsylvania Route 66 (PA-66) and Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28). PA-66 is a major north-south artery, connecting Ford City to Kittanning, the county seat, and further south to the Pennsylvania Turnpike. PA-28, running roughly parallel to the Allegheny River, provides access to Pittsburgh and the surrounding metropolitan area. The drive to Pittsburgh, where advanced prostate cancer treatment centers are located, can take up to an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

Healthcare access in Ford City is primarily centered around the Armstrong County Memorial Hospital in Kittanning, roughly a 10-15 minute drive via PA-66. This hospital offers a range of services, including urology consultations and basic cancer care. However, for specialized prostate cancer treatments like radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients often need to travel to larger medical centers in Pittsburgh.

Public transportation options in Ford City are limited. The Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent. The ACTA buses typically operate on fixed routes, with limited service on weekends and evenings. Individuals requiring ADA-accessible transportation should contact ACTA in advance to arrange for accommodations. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those unable to drive or who lack reliable transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ford City area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and potentially significant costs. The distance to Pittsburgh and the limited availability of ride-sharing services present a significant challenge for individuals needing frequent or urgent medical care.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. Several companies provide NEMT services in the Ford City area, but these services often require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding insurance coverage and geographic reach. Patients should research and understand the specific limitations of these services before relying on them for healthcare transportation.

The prostate cancer score for Ford City is also influenced by the availability of support services. Access to support groups, cancer counseling, and patient advocacy organizations can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer. These resources may be available in Kittanning or Pittsburgh, but the transportation challenges discussed above can hinder access to these crucial support networks.

For individuals considering moving to Ford City, the prostate cancer score should be a key consideration. The score highlights the importance of proactive planning and careful evaluation of transportation needs. Individuals with existing prostate cancer diagnoses or those at high risk should thoroughly assess their ability to access necessary healthcare services.

This assessment should include a realistic evaluation of drive times to medical facilities, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Individuals should also investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The overall prostate cancer score for Ford City reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While basic care is available locally, access to specialized treatments and comprehensive support services requires travel to larger medical centers. The transportation infrastructure, particularly the limited public transit options, presents a significant challenge for many residents.

The proximity to PA-66 and PA-28 offers some advantage, but the drive times to Pittsburgh and the potential for traffic delays should be factored into any healthcare planning. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but these services may be subject to limitations and costs.

For those considering moving to Ford City, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the local healthcare resources, and exploring transportation options. Individuals with a history of prostate cancer or those at higher risk should consult with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized healthcare plan that addresses their specific needs.

The prostate cancer score for Ford City emphasizes the importance of understanding the local healthcare landscape and planning for potential transportation challenges. While the area offers a pleasant environment, the limitations in healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation, require careful consideration. The goal is to ensure that individuals can receive timely and effective prostate cancer care, regardless of their location.

The decision to move to Ford City should be made with a clear understanding of the healthcare access challenges. Individuals should carefully weigh the benefits of living in the area against the potential difficulties of accessing specialized medical care and support services. The prostate cancer score serves as a valuable tool for informing this decision, prompting a thorough assessment of individual needs and transportation options.