16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.13 percent of residents in 16740 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 9.37 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16740

The quiet charm of Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16740), beckons with its rolling hills and a slower pace of life. Yet, the decision to call this community home must consider a critical factor: healthcare access, especially for men concerned about prostate cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, offering a Prostate Cancer Score (PCS) that reflects the challenges and opportunities of navigating the journey to vital medical care. The PCS, a qualitative assessment, considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access in this rural setting.

The most direct route for specialized prostate cancer care from Mount Jewett often involves a drive to larger medical centers in nearby cities. The primary artery for this journey is Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), a scenic but sometimes winding highway that snakes its way east and west. Heading east, the drive to Bradford Regional Medical Center in Bradford, Pennsylvania, is typically a 30-45 minute undertaking, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This proximity earns Mount Jewett a moderate score in terms of immediate healthcare access.

Further afield, the drive to UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania, a regional healthcare hub, presents a more significant transportation challenge. This journey, primarily via PA-6 and Interstate 86 (I-86), can consume upwards of two hours, especially during peak travel times. This longer commute significantly impacts the PCS, as it potentially delays access to specialized treatments and follow-up appointments.

Westward, the drive to facilities in Warren, Pennsylvania, typically involves a shorter commute, utilizing PA-6 and sometimes US Route 62. However, the availability of specialized prostate cancer services in Warren is less extensive than in Bradford or Erie, which influences the overall PCS. The condition of roads, particularly during winter months, further complicates transportation, potentially increasing travel times and adding to the stress of seeking healthcare.

Public transportation options in Mount Jewett are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. There are no fixed-route buses serving Mount Jewett. This absence of public transit severely impacts the PCS, particularly for those unable to drive or who face financial constraints.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance of any potential public transit options is a critical consideration. Without accessible transportation, individuals with mobility limitations face insurmountable barriers to healthcare access. This further diminishes the PCS, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Mount Jewett and the surrounding rural areas. The lack of these services compounds the transportation challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to family or friends for rides. This absence significantly impacts the PCS, emphasizing the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive medical transport options.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization, potentially delaying access to care. The availability of NEMT services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. These services, while offering a lifeline, often come with logistical complexities and financial burdens, impacting the overall PCS.

Several medical transport brands serve the area, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. The response times of ambulance services are critical in emergency situations, while NEMT services are essential for scheduled appointments and follow-up care. The reliability and affordability of these services are key factors in the PCS.

The decision to move to Mount Jewett, while appealing for its tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. The PCS, in this case, reflects the challenges of transportation, particularly the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative options. While Bradford offers relatively accessible care, the longer commutes to Erie and the absence of robust public transit significantly impact the overall score.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Mount Jewett (ZIP Code 16740) is therefore categorized as "Moderate-Challenging." This rating indicates that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning, reliance on personal transportation, and awareness of potential delays due to distance and weather conditions.

For individuals considering a move to Mount Jewett, a proactive approach to healthcare is crucial. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, understanding the local healthcare landscape, and planning for transportation needs. The availability of family, friends, or community resources to provide transportation support can significantly improve the PCS and ease the burden of accessing healthcare.

In conclusion, while Mount Jewett offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation challenges to healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer care, must be carefully considered. The "Moderate-Challenging" PCS underscores the need for individuals to be prepared for longer commutes, potential reliance on medical transport services, and the absence of convenient public transit or ride-sharing options. By understanding these challenges and proactively planning for their healthcare needs, residents can navigate the transportation landscape and access the vital care they require.