17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.12 percent of residents in 17747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Lock Haven with a distance of 11.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Loganton (ZIP Code 17747)

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized care. For residents of Loganton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17747), the journey to healthcare becomes a critical component of their overall well-being. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, particularly for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Loganton.

The primary concern revolves around the distance and travel time to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities. Loganton is a rural community, and specialized medical services are not readily available within its borders. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, primarily Williamsport and Lock Haven, for access to oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapy, and support services.

**The Driving Dilemma:**

For many, personal vehicles represent the most direct mode of transportation. The most common route to Williamsport, a regional hub for healthcare, involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 44 and then connecting to U.S. Route 220. The drive, typically spanning approximately 30 miles, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. The scenic route along Route 44 offers a pleasant drive, but the road can be winding, especially during inclement weather.

Heading to Lock Haven, a shorter distance of around 20 miles, requires taking Route 477 and connecting to Route 120. This journey usually takes about 30 minutes. However, both routes are subject to seasonal variations, with potential delays during winter months due to snow and ice.

These drive times, while manageable, are significant. The added stress of navigating these routes, especially during a health crisis, can significantly impact a patient’s emotional state. This is particularly relevant for individuals undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that can impair their ability to drive safely.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Loganton are severely limited. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to access healthcare. There are no dedicated bus routes that directly connect Loganton to Williamsport or Lock Haven. This creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors, those with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a personal vehicle.

While there might be limited demand-response services available through the local county, these options often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them unsuitable for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments that require punctuality. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and services is a critical consideration. The lack of reliable public transportation significantly diminishes the Breast Cancer Score for Loganton residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Loganton can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing services may be less reliable, with longer wait times and potentially higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another potential solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may offer assistance with mobility. However, the availability of these services in Loganton and the surrounding areas needs to be investigated. Furthermore, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Loganton (ZIP Code 17747) is negatively affected by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of robust public transit, creates significant challenges for individuals seeking breast cancer care. The drive times to Williamsport and Lock Haven, while not excessive, add to the stress and inconvenience of medical appointments. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the potential cost of medical transport further exacerbate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Loganton, the availability and reliability of transportation to healthcare facilities should be a primary consideration. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for residents to have access to reliable and affordable transportation options. This includes exploring the potential for expanding public transit, improving ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transport.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for Loganton, several steps are crucial. First, community leaders should advocate for improved public transportation, potentially by partnering with neighboring counties to establish bus routes or demand-response services that connect Loganton to Williamsport and Lock Haven. Second, efforts should be made to encourage ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area, potentially through incentives or partnerships with local organizations.

Third, residents should be informed about the availability of medical transport services and how to access them. Fourth, the local healthcare providers should consider establishing partnerships with transportation providers to offer coordinated transportation services for their patients. Finally, the community should advocate for increased funding for programs that support transportation for individuals with disabilities and those with limited financial resources.

By addressing these transportation challenges, Loganton can improve its Breast Cancer Score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their ability to drive or their financial circumstances. The journey to recovery should not be made more difficult by the obstacles of transportation.