16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16254, Shippenville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.00 percent of residents in 16254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 5.38 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shippenville, PA (ZIP Code 16254)**

The tranquil borough of Shippenville, Pennsylvania, nestled in Clarion County, offers a picturesque setting for life. However, when considering a move to this community, especially for those with a heightened concern for healthcare, a comprehensive understanding of access to specialized medical services becomes paramount. This write-up analyzes the prostate cancer healthcare landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 16254, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely and effective care.

For individuals facing a prostate cancer diagnosis or requiring ongoing monitoring, the availability and accessibility of specialized medical facilities are critical. This analysis examines the transportation infrastructure, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, to gauge the ease with which residents of Shippenville can reach essential healthcare providers. The goal is to provide a realistic 'Prostate Cancer Score' reflecting the challenges and opportunities for accessing care.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Trip to Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Shippenville is the personal vehicle. The strategic location of the borough, intersected by several key roadways, significantly influences access to medical facilities. The primary artery for north-south travel is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, providing a direct route to larger cities with advanced medical centers.

To the south, a journey to the UPMC Northwest hospital in Seneca, PA, entails a drive of approximately 25-30 minutes via **PA-68** and **US-62**. This route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can impact travel times. This hospital offers a range of services, including urology, which is essential for prostate cancer care.

Heading east, the city of DuBois, PA, is accessible within an hour's drive via **I-80**. DuBois is home to Penn Highlands DuBois, another healthcare provider with urology services. This route is relatively straightforward, but potential traffic congestion around DuBois during peak hours should be considered.

Traveling west, the city of Clarion, PA, is a shorter drive, roughly 15-20 minutes via **PA-68**. Clarion Hospital, part of the UPMC network, provides a closer option for some medical needs, although it may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as the hospitals in Seneca or DuBois.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Shippenville and the surrounding areas are limited. Clarion County operates a small public transit system, primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The availability of routes and schedules can be limited, and services are often demand-response, meaning they require advance booking.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, this presents a significant challenge. The lack of readily available public transit options can severely restrict access to healthcare appointments, especially for those requiring frequent visits for treatments like radiation therapy or chemotherapy. The absence of ADA-compliant buses on all routes further exacerbates this issue.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. The presence of these services is generally more prevalent in larger towns and cities, and wait times for a ride in Shippenville could be longer than in more populated areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for regular appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs should be carefully investigated. Companies like MedStar or local ambulance services may offer this type of transportation, but it is best to inquire about their coverage area and fees.

**Assessing the Prostate Cancer Score**

Considering the transportation options available, the 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Shippenville, PA (ZIP code 16254) reflects a mixed picture. While driving provides relatively good access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable timeframe, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents.

The score is influenced by the following factors: the proximity of hospitals offering urology services, the ease of driving to these facilities, the limited availability of public transportation, the variable reliability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost of medical transportation.

**Moving to Shippenville: Planning for Healthcare Needs**

For individuals considering moving to Shippenville, particularly those with existing health concerns, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is crucial. Researching the availability of specialists, understanding insurance coverage for transportation, and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers are essential steps.

The location of Shippenville, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, presents challenges in healthcare access compared to more urban environments. While driving provides access to essential medical services, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation require careful consideration.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Shippenville is moderately favorable. The ability to drive to hospitals within a reasonable timeframe is a positive factor. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and consideration for those with prostate cancer or other healthcare needs.