17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.60 percent of residents in 17810 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 25.46 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Allenwood, PA (ZIP Code 17810)**

Embarking on a journey to assess healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer services, in Allenwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17810) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the crucial element of transportation, the lifeblood that connects individuals to vital medical resources. This analysis will paint a picture of the landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care, especially for those considering moving to Allenwood.

Allenwood, a rural community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary means of navigating the region is by personal vehicle. The reliance on cars directly impacts the ease and speed with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. The roads, the veins of this community, become critical determinants of healthcare access.

The primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare outside of Allenwood is Route 44, a north-south artery. Traveling south on Route 44 will take you towards the larger towns of Lewisburg and Milton. Depending on traffic, the drive time to Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a significant healthcare provider, can range from 20 to 30 minutes. This drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can significantly impact travel times.

Route 405, another vital road, intersects Route 44, offering access to the east-west routes. Heading east on Route 405 connects to Route 15, a major highway that provides access to Williamsport, about a 45-minute drive. Williamsport is home to UPMC Williamsport, another major healthcare facility, offering comprehensive cancer care.

The drive times are critical. Early detection and treatment are paramount in breast cancer care. Delays in reaching medical facilities can have a detrimental impact on outcomes. The time spent in transit is not merely a matter of convenience; it directly impacts the patient's health journey.

Public transportation options in Allenwood and the surrounding areas are limited. The lack of robust public transit systems is a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.

The primary public transportation provider in the region is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT). However, RVT's services in the Allenwood area are limited, primarily focusing on connecting to larger towns. The routes are infrequent, and the coverage is sparse. Information on specific routes serving Allenwood is limited, so thorough investigation is required.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. RVT does offer accessible vehicles, but the availability of these vehicles on specific routes needs to be confirmed. Individuals with mobility challenges must be able to rely on accessible transportation to reach their appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in rural areas like Allenwood can be inconsistent. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The cost of these services can also create another barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are available. These services offer specialized transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including CareRide and MedRide. These services can be a lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or lack access to other transportation options.

The availability and cost of medical transportation services vary. It is essential to research the different providers, their service areas, and their pricing structures. Insurance coverage for medical transportation should also be investigated, as it can significantly reduce the financial burden on patients.

Healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is about the ability to reach those facilities. The transportation infrastructure in Allenwood presents both opportunities and challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the potential for transportation-related barriers.

For those considering moving to Allenwood, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. The proximity to healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services should all be evaluated.

The breast cancer score in Allenwood is directly linked to transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to the overall score.

The breast cancer score is a dynamic measure. It changes with the availability of services, the development of infrastructure, and the evolving needs of the community. It is critical to continuously monitor and evaluate the transportation landscape to ensure that residents of Allenwood have access to the breast cancer care they need.

The journey to healthcare in Allenwood is not always straightforward. The need for personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all present challenges. The breast cancer score reflects these challenges, highlighting the importance of transportation in the fight against breast cancer. The score will be improved by investing in infrastructure, expanding public transit options, and ensuring the availability of affordable and accessible medical transportation services.