17778, Westport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17778, Westport, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.52 percent of residents in 17778 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 10.04 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17778**

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis looms large, a reality that underscores the critical importance of accessible healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 17778, the ability to swiftly and reliably reach medical facilities for screening, diagnosis, and treatment is paramount. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of this area, evaluating the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer-related healthcare, ultimately contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the community's healthcare access.

ZIP Code 17778, encompassing the town of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's relative isolation, coupled with its reliance on personal vehicles, creates a complex transportation environment. Understanding these nuances is essential for assessing the community's ability to confront breast cancer.

**Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The primary arteries of transportation in 17778 are Interstate 180 (I-180) and U.S. Route 220. I-180, an east-west thoroughfare, offers direct access to larger medical centers in Williamsport and beyond. Route 220, running north-south, provides connections to surrounding communities and healthcare providers. The efficiency of these roadways is critical. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, delaying crucial medical appointments.

Driving to the UPMC Williamsport Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region, from various points within the ZIP code is the first consideration. The drive time from the heart of Williamsport, near the hospital, is relatively short, typically under 10 minutes. However, residents in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, such as those residing near the Lycoming Creek, might face drive times exceeding 20 minutes, especially during inclement weather. The condition of local roads, including smaller thoroughfares like Lycoming Creek Road and Market Street, also plays a role. Potholes, poor lighting, and lack of sidewalks can present difficulties.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 17778 are limited. The River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT) operates a bus network within Williamsport and surrounding areas. Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, are most relevant to accessing healthcare facilities. The RVT system, however, has limited routes and frequencies, especially on weekends and evenings. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

The RVT system does make an effort to provide ADA-accessible buses, with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system remain a concern for those with mobility issues. The RVT is a critical component of the community's transportation infrastructure, yet its limitations impact the "Breast Cancer Score".

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Williamsport, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas of the ZIP code. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a crucial service. Companies like MedRide and First Transit Medical Transportation operate in the area. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and scheduling appointments often requires advance planning.

**The Impact of Transportation on Healthcare Access**

The transportation landscape directly impacts healthcare access for residents of 17778. The ability to quickly and reliably reach healthcare facilities is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Delays in accessing care can have serious consequences, impacting treatment outcomes and overall survival rates.

Individuals without access to personal vehicles face significant challenges. The limited public transit options, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services, and the constraints of medical transportation services can create barriers to care. These challenges are particularly acute for those with limited mobility, financial constraints, or those living in more rural areas of the ZIP code.

**Moving to Westport: Considering Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Westport (a common misnomer for Williamsport), the availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and their ability to access healthcare facilities. Proximity to major roadways, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should all be considered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 17778 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. The score reflects the community's ability to ensure that all residents, regardless of their transportation situation, can access the healthcare they need. Improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing availability, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation services are all vital steps in improving the score.

**Conclusion: Striving for Improved Healthcare Access**

The transportation infrastructure in 17778 presents both opportunities and challenges regarding healthcare access. While the presence of major roadways like I-180 and Route 220 provides essential connections, the limitations of public transit, the inconsistencies of ride-sharing, and the constraints of medical transportation services create barriers for some residents.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for 17778 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes enhancing public transit, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation. These improvements will help to ensure that all residents of the ZIP code can access the timely and effective breast cancer care they deserve. The community must strive to make healthcare access a priority, fostering a healthier and more equitable environment for all.