17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.80 percent of residents in 17814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 14.83 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17814**

Benton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Columbia County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. ZIP code 17814, encompassing the borough and surrounding townships, is a rural haven, offering a slower pace of life. However, this tranquility comes with challenges, particularly when it comes to navigating the complexities of transportation to and from vital medical appointments. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for 17814, evaluating the ease of access to breast cancer-related healthcare services, considering the various transportation options available.

The cornerstone of this score is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities. The primary destinations for residents of 17814 are Geisinger Medical Center in Danville and UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport. These facilities offer a full spectrum of services, from screening mammograms to advanced treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The journey to Danville, via Route 487 South and then Interstate 80 East, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The drive to Williamsport, utilizing Route 487 South, Route 220 South, and finally Interstate 180 East, can range from 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times are crucial, as they influence the timeliness of diagnosis, treatment initiation, and follow-up care. Longer travel times can lead to increased stress, fatigue, and potentially, delayed care, impacting the overall prognosis for individuals battling breast cancer. The ability to navigate these routes, particularly during inclement weather, is also a significant factor.

Public transportation options in 17814 are limited. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the Bloomsburg area. These routes are not specifically designed to cater to medical appointments, and the schedules may not align with clinic hours. Furthermore, ADA-accessible features on these buses are available, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but availability is not always guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by LifeLine Ambulance or local non-emergency medical transport providers, are available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require prior scheduling and can be costly.

The Breast Cancer Score for 17814 is influenced by the availability and reliability of these transportation options. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport. Conversely, the score is somewhat boosted by the relatively manageable drive times to major medical centers.

For someone moving to Benton, considering healthcare access is paramount. The availability of a personal vehicle becomes almost essential, given the limitations of public transportation. The individual must also factor in the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport. Proximity to major roadways, such as Interstate 80 and Route 220, is also a significant consideration, as these highways provide the most direct routes to healthcare facilities.

The local healthcare landscape also plays a role in the Breast Cancer Score. While 17814 may not have a dedicated breast cancer center, the presence of primary care physicians and local clinics offering basic screening services can improve the score. These facilities serve as a crucial first point of contact, providing referrals for mammograms and other diagnostic tests. The availability of support groups and patient navigators in the area can also positively influence the score, offering emotional support and assistance in navigating the healthcare system.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for 17814 is moderate. While the drive times to major medical centers are relatively reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. Individuals without personal vehicles may face considerable difficulties in accessing timely and consistent breast cancer care. The cost of medical transport can also be a burden.

To improve the Breast Cancer Score, several interventions could be considered. Enhancing the frequency and route coverage of CCTA bus services, particularly those targeting medical facilities, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access. Increasing the availability of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those in need would be crucial. Furthermore, promoting awareness of existing resources, such as support groups and patient navigator programs, can empower individuals to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

The Breast Cancer Score for 17814 is a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving based on changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community resources. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care. The commitment to improving transportation options and healthcare access is vital to fostering a healthy and supportive community for all residents, especially those facing the challenges of breast cancer.