17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17830, Herndon, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 17830 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 22.65 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Herndon, PA (ZIP Code 17830)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a multifaceted challenge. It encompasses more than just the availability of medical professionals; it includes the accessibility of transportation. For residents of Herndon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17830), understanding the complexities of transportation options is vital when evaluating healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment considering commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to illuminate the ease of reaching crucial breast cancer services.

Herndon, a small community nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique set of transportation circumstances. The absence of a major metropolitan hub means residents often rely on personal vehicles. However, understanding the routes, distances, and alternative options is paramount for those facing breast cancer diagnoses. The Breast Cancer Score aims to highlight these factors, providing a clearer picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The primary route connecting Herndon to larger healthcare facilities is often via **Pennsylvania Route 147** and **U.S. Route 11/15**. These roads are the arteries of transportation for residents seeking specialized medical care. The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This drive time, while manageable, can be a significant factor for individuals experiencing fatigue, pain, or undergoing regular treatments.

The journey to other facilities, such as UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport, can extend the drive time to over an hour. These longer commutes emphasize the importance of efficient planning, considering the potential for inclement weather or unexpected delays. For those without personal vehicles, this reliance on driving presents a substantial barrier to healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Herndon and the surrounding areas are limited. The **Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA)** offers some bus services, but routes and schedules may not be directly tailored to medical appointments. The availability of these services to reach cancer care facilities is questionable, and the routes may involve transfers, adding to the overall travel time and complexity.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. While NCTA strives to provide accessible services, individuals with mobility challenges should verify the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations on specific routes. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long travel times may make public transit a less viable option for many breast cancer patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Herndon area, but their availability and reliability may vary. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers in the rural setting of Herndon might be limited, leading to delays or cancellations.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Care Ride** and **Medicaid Transportation Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, eligibility requirements and the need for advance booking should be considered.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Considering these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Herndon, PA (ZIP code 17830) reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, combined with the limited public transit options, poses challenges for many residents. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, their availability, cost, and potential limitations must be carefully evaluated.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to major cancer care centers (45-60 minutes).
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options, potentially with long travel times and transfers.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services are available but may be subject to driver availability and cost.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services are available, offering a valuable option for those with mobility limitations.

**Improving Healthcare Access: Recommendations**

To enhance healthcare access for breast cancer patients in Herndon, several improvements are recommended. Increased investment in public transportation, with routes and schedules specifically tailored to medical appointments, would be beneficial. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies could offer subsidized transportation options. Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transport services and ensuring their accessibility to all eligible individuals is crucial.

**Moving to Herndon and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Herndon, PA, the transportation challenges to healthcare access should be a significant consideration. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs, evaluate the availability of personal vehicles, and research the local public transit and medical transport options. Understanding these factors will enable informed decisions regarding healthcare access and overall quality of life.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The Breast Cancer Score for Herndon, PA, underscores the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure access to timely and effective breast cancer care. While drive times are manageable, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present significant hurdles. By understanding the available transportation options and advocating for improvements, residents of Herndon can work towards a healthcare system that is truly accessible to all. The journey to healthcare requires navigating the transportation landscape, and for those facing breast cancer, this journey demands careful consideration and proactive planning.