17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.50 percent of residents in 17742 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 9.99 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lairdsville, PA (ZIP Code 17742)

Considering a move to the serene embrace of Lairdsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17742)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, a crucial factor to consider is healthcare access, particularly for women. This write-up delves into the “Breast Cancer Score” for Lairdsville, analyzing the available transportation options to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat breast cancer. This score reflects the ease and efficiency of reaching these vital resources, impacting the timeliness of care, and ultimately, the potential for positive outcomes.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that early detection and treatment are paramount in the fight against breast cancer. Therefore, the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in this area are critical. Our "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, all within the context of the geographical realities of Lairdsville.

Lairdsville, nestled in Lycoming County, is a rural community. This geographical isolation significantly influences healthcare access. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Driving times to specialized breast cancer care facilities are therefore a primary consideration.

The nearest major medical center offering comprehensive breast cancer services is UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, located approximately 25 miles away. The most direct route involves traveling south on Pennsylvania Route 442, a two-lane highway that winds through rolling hills and farmland. Expect a drive time of around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges.

Alternatively, one could travel south on Pennsylvania Route 44 to U.S. Route 220 South, then to the hospital. This route is slightly longer, adding about 10 minutes to the drive. The advantage is that U.S. Route 220 is a four-lane highway, potentially mitigating traffic congestion. However, this route is also more prone to delays during peak travel times.

Another option for healthcare access is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 45 miles away. This trip involves traveling south on Pennsylvania Route 44, then east on Interstate 80. The drive time is around an hour, but Interstate 80 can experience significant traffic delays, especially during weekends and holidays. This extended travel time could be a significant factor for individuals needing frequent appointments or facing urgent medical situations.

Public transportation options in Lairdsville are limited. The local public transit system, River Valley TransitValley Transit, primarily serves the city of Williamsport. While there are routes that extend into the surrounding areas, service to Lairdsville is infrequent and often requires multiple transfers. It is important to note that the routes do not extend directly to the hospital, which adds to the travel time.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on these routes should be confirmed by contacting River Valley Transit directly. This is especially important for individuals with mobility limitations. Furthermore, the schedule of the buses may not be convenient for medical appointments, and the travel time could be prohibitive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area. However, their availability in Lairdsville is less certain. The cost and availability of these services can fluctuate significantly depending on demand and the time of day. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is questionable, particularly in a rural area where drivers may be scarce.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including MedStar and Care Ride. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required. It is advisable to research the availability and pricing of these services in advance, as well as the insurance coverage.

For someone moving to Lairdsville, the "Breast Cancer Score" is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles. The relatively long drive times to specialized medical facilities necessitate careful planning and consideration. The lack of robust public transportation and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lairdsville is, therefore, moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation. While the drive times to UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital are manageable, the lack of alternative transportation options could present challenges for individuals without a personal vehicle or those with mobility limitations.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable lifeline, but the cost and scheduling complexities must be carefully considered. Potential residents should research these services and assess their accessibility.

The key to improving the "Breast Cancer Score" in Lairdsville lies in improving transportation options. This could involve expanding public transportation routes, incentivizing ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transportation. The community could also explore partnerships with healthcare providers to offer shuttle services or mobile mammography units.

In conclusion, while Lairdsville offers a tranquil and welcoming environment, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the healthcare access challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the importance of considering transportation options when assessing the suitability of a location. Careful planning, including identifying reliable transportation solutions and understanding the available resources, is crucial for ensuring timely access to breast cancer care. This is essential for anyone considering moving to Lairdsville, ensuring a healthy and secure future.