17765, Roaring Branch, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17765, Roaring Branch, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.66 percent of residents in 17765 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 16.02 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Roaring Branch, PA (ZIP Code 17765)**

The quaint village of Roaring Branch, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's Lycoming County, offers a serene escape. But for those considering a move, especially those with a history of breast cancer or seeking proactive screening, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This report, a “Breast Cancer Score,” assesses the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 17765, providing a detailed view of the journey to vital medical services. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, all critical factors influencing healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the ease of reaching specialized breast cancer care, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive services. This assessment goes beyond simple distance, factoring in travel time, mode of transportation, and accessibility features, especially crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

**The Road to Care: Driving Times and Routes**

For residents of Roaring Branch, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is by car. The nearest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Williamsport, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive. The most direct route involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 14, a scenic but often winding road. This route offers a relatively straightforward passage, but traffic can be heavier during peak commuting hours, potentially increasing travel time.

Another option is to take Route 15, which intersects with Route 14, offering a slightly longer but potentially faster route, particularly if avoiding congestion on Route 14. This route provides access to Interstate 180, the major east-west artery in the region, providing access to larger medical centers. However, the drive on Route 15 can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

The drive from Roaring Branch to Williamsport is manageable for most, but factors like vehicle reliability, weather conditions, and personal health can significantly impact the journey. For those with mobility limitations, the need for accessible parking and ease of navigation within medical facilities becomes even more critical.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in and around Roaring Branch are limited. The primary provider is the Williamsport Transportation Authority (WTA), offering bus routes that primarily serve the city of Williamsport and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, WTA service does not directly extend to Roaring Branch. This means residents must rely on alternative transportation to reach the WTA's central hub in Williamsport.

While the WTA operates with ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the lack of direct service to Roaring Branch presents a significant challenge. A potential solution would involve a combination of personal transportation to a WTA route and then transferring to a bus. This would significantly increase travel time and complexity.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area. However, their availability in Roaring Branch can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not advisable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide an alternative. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and appointment scheduling. While potentially more expensive than other options, they provide a reliable solution for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. Researching local medical transport providers is crucial for residents of Roaring Branch.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roaring Branch reflects the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. While the drive to Williamsport is manageable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles.

The score is influenced by the following factors:
* **Drive Time:** The 30- to 45-minute drive to Williamsport is considered moderate.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of direct WTA service significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The potential for limited ride-sharing availability impacts the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability of medical transport services positively influences the score, but the cost factor must be considered.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant services at medical facilities is a positive factor.

For individuals with a history of breast cancer or those seeking proactive screening, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness. Proactive planning includes identifying reliable transportation options, understanding the availability of medical transport services, and considering the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.

**Moving to Roaring Branch: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For those considering a move to Roaring Branch, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate their transportation needs.

Key considerations include:
* **Vehicle Reliability:** A reliable vehicle is essential for navigating the roads to Williamsport.
* **Medical Transport Research:** Identifying and establishing a relationship with a medical transport provider is highly recommended.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Scheduling appointments during off-peak hours to minimize travel time is advisable.
* **Support Network:** Having a support network of family or friends who can provide transportation assistance is invaluable.
* **Proactive Screening:** Regular breast cancer screenings are crucial. Planning for the transportation aspect of these appointments is essential.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Roaring Branch underscores the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the drive to Williamsport is manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness.

By proactively addressing transportation challenges, individuals can ensure timely access to vital breast cancer services. This includes researching medical transport options, building a support network, and considering the impact of weather conditions. For those moving to Roaring Branch, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for maintaining optimal healthcare access and quality of life.