16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.00 percent of residents in 16727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 25.59 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Derrick City (ZIP Code 16727)

The prospect of a prostate cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding not only expert medical care but also a clear understanding of **healthcare access**. For residents of Derrick City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16727), this understanding is crucial, especially when considering the practicalities of **transportation** to and from vital appointments. This write-up assesses the **Prostate Cancer Score** for this specific area, focusing on the availability of medical resources and the ease with which they can be reached. It is particularly relevant for those **moving to Derrick City** or considering their healthcare options within the region.

Derrick City, nestled in the heart of rural Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare. The area, while offering a close-knit community, is geographically dispersed. This impacts the **transportation** landscape significantly, influencing the ease of reaching medical facilities. The **Prostate Cancer Score** considers these factors, providing a realistic picture of the patient experience.

The primary medical facility serving Derrick City and its surrounding areas is UPMC Kane, located approximately 12 miles away. The journey to UPMC Kane, the most likely destination for specialized prostate cancer care, is the cornerstone of our **Prostate Cancer Score** assessment.

Driving, the most common mode of **transportation** in this rural setting, presents a variable experience. The main arteries connecting Derrick City to Kane are Route 6 and Route 346. Travel time, however, is highly dependent on weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Pennsylvania winters. A typical drive under ideal conditions might take 20-25 minutes. However, snow, ice, and fog can easily double or even triple this time, significantly impacting **healthcare access**.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** must also account for the potential need for specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, that might necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Erie or Pittsburgh. These journeys, involving longer drive times on Interstate 80 (I-80) and Interstate 86 (I-86), represent a significant logistical hurdle. The drive to Erie, approximately 80 miles away, could take 1.5 to 2 hours, while a trip to Pittsburgh, roughly 120 miles, could stretch to 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. These extended travel times can add considerable stress and fatigue, impacting the patient’s overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Public **transportation** options in ZIP Code 16727 are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the **Prostate Cancer Score**. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Derrick City and connect it to UPMC Kane or other regional medical centers. This absence places a heavy reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** solutions.

The absence of accessible public **transportation** underscores the importance of exploring alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability may vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The **Prostate Cancer Score** acknowledges the potential utility of these services, but also recognizes their limitations in a rural environment.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies specializing in medical transport, such as Senior Life Solutions or local ambulance services, may provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, requiring careful consideration within the **Prostate Cancer Score**.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** also considers the potential for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant **transportation**. While ride-sharing services may offer accessible vehicles, their availability cannot be guaranteed. Medical **transportation** services, on the other hand, are often equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing a vital link to healthcare for those with mobility limitations.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** reflects the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness when navigating healthcare in Derrick City. Patients and their families must be prepared to navigate the **transportation** landscape, considering all available options and accounting for potential delays.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** is not simply a numerical rating; it is a holistic assessment of the patient experience. It considers the physical distance to medical facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the potential for unexpected challenges.

For individuals **moving to Derrick City**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is essential. Researching medical **transportation** providers, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, and assessing the feasibility of driving are critical steps in ensuring access to timely and appropriate healthcare.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** emphasizes the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family members can play a crucial role in providing **transportation** assistance, offering rides to appointments, or helping with errands. This collaborative approach can significantly enhance the patient’s ability to manage their care.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** also considers the role of telemedicine. The availability of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can mitigate some of the challenges associated with long travel times. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet access and the nature of the medical consultation.

The **Prostate Cancer Score** recognizes that the **transportation** challenges in Derrick City are not insurmountable. By carefully planning and utilizing available resources, patients can successfully navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they need.

In conclusion, the **Prostate Cancer Score** for ZIP Code 16727 reflects the unique challenges and opportunities of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. While the area offers a close-knit community and a commitment to providing quality care, the limitations of **transportation** necessitate careful planning, proactive resourcefulness, and a reliance on community support. The **Prostate Cancer Score** serves as a reminder that **healthcare access** is not just about the availability of medical facilities, but also about the ease with which patients can reach them. For those **moving to Derrick City**, understanding these complexities is crucial for ensuring a positive healthcare experience.