16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.80 percent of residents in 16738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 15.09 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16738**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, especially when facing a diagnosis like prostate cancer, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 16738, encompassing Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, and assesses the feasibility of accessing prostate cancer care, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services.

The primary concern for residents of Lewis Run is the relative isolation and the limited availability of specialized medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for comprehensive prostate cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments. The transportation landscape, therefore, becomes a critical factor in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare.

The most common mode of transportation for residents of Lewis Run is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary roadways connecting Lewis Run to potential healthcare destinations are Pennsylvania Route 44 (PA-44) and U.S. Route 219 (US-219). PA-44 provides a direct route to Bradford, a town approximately 7 miles away, where some basic medical services are available. However, for specialized prostate cancer care, residents will likely need to travel further afield.

US-219 offers a more extensive network, connecting Lewis Run to Olean, New York, approximately 25 miles away, and to DuBois, Pennsylvania, roughly 70 miles away. These cities host hospitals and medical centers with oncology departments and urology specialists, crucial for prostate cancer treatment. Drive times to these locations vary significantly.

The drive to Bradford is relatively quick, typically taking around 15 minutes, making it a viable option for initial consultations or routine check-ups. The journey to Olean, while longer, is still manageable, averaging around 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. However, the commute to DuBois presents a more significant challenge. The drive can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, adding considerable time and potential stress to the patient's schedule, especially for frequent appointments.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 16738 are severely limited. There is no established public transit system that directly serves Lewis Run. This significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of public transit creates a substantial barrier for those facing mobility challenges or financial constraints.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also limited in the area. While these services may be available in Bradford and Olean, their availability in Lewis Run and the surrounding rural areas is often unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking prostate cancer care.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients, offer a potential solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability of these services in the Lewis Run area needs verification. Residents should research local providers, inquire about service areas, and confirm the availability of specialized vehicles and trained personnel.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 16738 is negatively impacted by the lack of public transportation, limited ride-sharing options, and the distance to specialized medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on patients and their families. The absence of readily available transportation options creates a significant barrier to healthcare access.

When considering moving to Lewis Run, prospective residents, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of prostate cancer, should carefully evaluate the healthcare access situation. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount. The commute times to medical facilities, the cost of transportation, and the availability of support services are crucial factors to consider.

To improve the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lewis Run, several measures could be implemented. Encouraging the development of public transit routes connecting Lewis Run to Bradford, Olean, and DuBois would significantly enhance healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to increase their presence in the area could also provide more transportation options.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is essential. Increasing awareness of available resources and providing financial assistance to cover transportation costs can alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with healthcare access.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 16738 reflects the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking prostate cancer care. The limited public transit, reliance on personal vehicles, and distance to specialized medical facilities create significant barriers to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and support services is crucial to improving the healthcare experience for residents of Lewis Run and ensuring that they can access the care they need.