17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.27 percent of residents in 17740 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17740)

The picturesque town of Jersey Shore, nestled along the West Branch Susquehanna River, offers a charming escape. However, when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the nuances of transportation becomes crucial. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17740, focusing on accessibility to diagnostic and treatment facilities, a vital consideration for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care. This assessment considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation options.

The score, while not a formal metric, reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services significantly influence the score. A higher score indicates greater ease of access. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to Jersey Shore, PA, and seeking a comprehensive understanding of local healthcare infrastructure.

The primary challenge for residents of 17740 is the rural nature of the area. Healthcare access, therefore, relies heavily on personal vehicle transportation. The most direct route to specialized breast cancer care often involves driving. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Williamsport, approximately a 25-35 minute drive via **PA-220 South** and **US-220 South**. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavier during peak commuting hours. The speed limit along these highways is typically 55 mph, allowing for a relatively efficient journey.

For those without personal vehicles, the public transportation landscape presents a more complex picture. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA) provides limited bus service within Lycoming County, but routes are not designed to specifically address healthcare needs. The RVTA does not operate in Jersey Shore. Therefore, public transit does not offer a viable solution for accessing breast cancer care. The lack of public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, especially for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jersey Shore area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride to Williamsport can be significant, potentially adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation. While ride-sharing offers a potential solution, it cannot be considered a dependable transportation option for regular appointments or urgent care needs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and specialized medical transport companies, provide a crucial safety net for patients with mobility limitations or requiring immediate care. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments, including those related to breast cancer. However, these services are generally reserved for those with medical needs and cannot be considered a primary mode of transportation for routine appointments. The availability of these services does add a layer of security, but it does not fully compensate for the limitations in other transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score for 17740 is moderately impacted by the limited transportation options. While drive times to Williamsport are reasonable, the lack of public transit and the variable nature of ride-sharing services pose challenges for individuals who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership for healthcare access in this area.

Considering a move to Jersey Shore requires a careful assessment of these factors, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking proactive breast cancer screening. The convenience of healthcare access is a crucial consideration. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the challenges of navigating healthcare transportation in this rural environment.

The journey to Williamsport from Jersey Shore via **PA-220 South** and **US-220 South** is the most common route to access breast cancer care. This route offers a relatively direct and efficient path. However, the reliance on this highway, and the absence of viable alternatives, emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation. The speed limit along these highways is generally 55 mph, allowing for a relatively quick commute, but traffic during peak hours can potentially increase travel time.

The lack of public transit options in Jersey Shore is a significant factor impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The absence of a reliable public transportation system limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to the area and seeking a dependable way to reach medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, while available, are not a guaranteed solution. Their availability can be unpredictable, and the cost can be a deterrent for frequent medical appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing, or the lack thereof, further impacts the Breast Cancer Score, highlighting the need for reliable and affordable transportation options.

Medical transport services offer a crucial safety net for those with specific medical needs. However, these services are not designed to be a primary mode of transportation for routine appointments. While they provide a vital service, they do not fully address the broader transportation challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score is influenced by the limited options available. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. While the drive to Williamsport is manageable, the lack of alternatives poses challenges for those without a car. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services further impact the score.

The overall assessment reveals a need for enhanced transportation solutions to improve healthcare access for residents of 17740. This could include exploring options for expanding public transportation, increasing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, or promoting community-based transportation programs. Improving healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone considering moving to Jersey Shore, PA.

The Breast Cancer Score, in this context, acts as a barometer for healthcare access. It reflects the challenges and opportunities for residents of 17740 in accessing breast cancer care. The score highlights the importance of personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options. The lack of reliable public transit and the variable nature of ride-sharing services are critical factors influencing the score.

For individuals considering moving to Jersey Shore, understanding these transportation challenges is essential. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the importance of planning for healthcare access, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or seeking preventative care.

The journey to healthcare in 17740 is primarily a personal one, dependent on individual mobility and access to a vehicle. While the community offers a tranquil setting, the transportation infrastructure presents a unique set of challenges. The Breast Cancer Score reflects these challenges, serving as a valuable tool for anyone considering a move to Jersey Shore and prioritizing healthcare access.