17772, Turbotville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17772, Turbotville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.20 percent of residents in 17772 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 7.26 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Turbotville (ZIP Code 17772)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, and the journey to recovery often begins with the daunting task of accessing timely and effective healthcare. For residents of Turbotville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17772), this journey presents unique challenges. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the accessibility of essential services, considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical resources. This evaluation aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for those already residing in the area or considering moving to Turbotville.

The cornerstone of this assessment is **transportation**. The ability to reach diagnostic centers, treatment facilities, and support services directly impacts the patient experience and, ultimately, outcomes. The lack of robust public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant hurdles for individuals facing physical limitations or lacking access to a car. Understanding the available options is crucial.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Turbotville is a rural community, and the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in larger towns and cities. The primary roadways connecting Turbotville to these centers are crucial for understanding healthcare access.

The most direct route to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, involves traveling south on **Route 44** for approximately 10 miles, then connecting to **Interstate 80 East**. The total drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is typically around 30 to 45 minutes. However, traffic on I-80 can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or due to accidents, potentially extending travel times significantly.

Another option involves traveling east on **Route 54** to reach facilities in Bloomsburg. This route is generally shorter, with a drive time of about 20 to 30 minutes. However, the healthcare resources available in Bloomsburg may be less comprehensive than those at Geisinger.

For residents needing to access facilities in Williamsport, the journey involves heading west on **Route 44** and then connecting to **Interstate 180 West**. This drive is usually around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

These drive times highlight the reliance on personal vehicles. Individuals without access to a car face considerable difficulty accessing timely care. Even those with vehicles must consider the costs of gas, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Turbotville are extremely limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system is a major barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the **River Valley TransitValley Transit**, which operates a bus service in the Williamsport area. However, the service does not extend to Turbotville. The closest access point to River Valley Transit would be in Williamsport, requiring a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

**ADA Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges. The absence of wheelchair-accessible buses or other specialized transportation services further restricts healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Turbotville is inconsistent. While these services may be available, their reliability and cost can vary significantly. The limited availability of ride-sharing, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can make it difficult to schedule and attend appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a valuable alternative for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. These services often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability of medical transport providers in the Turbotville area may be limited.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands operate in the broader region, though their direct service to Turbotville may vary. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedStar Transportation** are among the providers that offer non-emergency medical transportation. The availability of these services and their ability to serve Turbotville residents should be confirmed directly with the providers.

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

The Breast Cancer Score for Turbotville reflects the challenges posed by the limited transportation options and the distances to comprehensive cancer care facilities. The score is negatively impacted by the lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for increased travel times due to traffic.

The score is also affected by the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, which can significantly impact patient outcomes.

**Moving to Turbotville: Considerations for Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Turbotville, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning and preparation. Prospective residents should:

* Assess their transportation needs and consider the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles.
* Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* Research the location and services offered by nearby cancer care facilities.
* Factor in the time and cost associated with traveling to and from appointments.
* Explore the potential for establishing a support network that can provide transportation assistance.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Turbotville, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, requires a proactive approach. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options present significant challenges. Understanding the available resources, planning for transportation needs, and exploring alternative solutions are crucial steps in ensuring timely access to the essential care needed for a positive outcome. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when assessing the suitability of Turbotville as a place to live.