17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 17834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.81 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17834

The quest for comprehensive healthcare access, particularly for crucial screenings like mammograms and cancer treatments, often hinges on a complex equation: transportation. In the heart of Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17834, encompassing the borough of Kulpmont, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when navigating the journey to vital breast cancer services. This write-up delves into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare within this area, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary care. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Kulpmont.

Kulpmont, a borough nestled in Northumberland County, is characterized by its rural setting and limited public transportation infrastructure. The geography, with its rolling hills and winding roads, further complicates the transportation landscape. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles, making drive times a critical factor in healthcare access.

**The Road to Care: Drive Times and Destinations**

The primary destinations for breast cancer services in the region include hospitals and clinics in nearby towns. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a leading healthcare provider, is a significant destination. The drive to Geisinger from Kulpmont typically involves navigating Route 61, a major north-south artery, and then transitioning onto Interstate 80 East. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Route 61 can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Another essential destination is the UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury, offering comprehensive cancer care services. The journey to Sunbury involves utilizing Route 61 South, a route often subject to heavy traffic, and then connecting to Route 147. The drive time to Sunbury is generally around 30 to 45 minutes.

Smaller clinics and outpatient facilities in towns like Shamokin, accessed via Route 125, offer additional options. These facilities may provide mammograms and follow-up care, potentially reducing travel times. However, access to specialized treatments and surgical procedures often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Kulpmont are limited, posing a considerable barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily designed for local travel. The NCTA does not offer direct routes to Danville or Sunbury, requiring multiple transfers and significantly increasing travel times.

The NCTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency and indirect routes make public transit a less viable option for timely access to breast cancer screenings and treatments. The lack of evening and weekend service further restricts access for those working or requiring care outside of typical business hours.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban environments. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially making it unaffordable for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like MedTrans and several local private providers operate in the region, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and advance booking is often required. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Kulpmont, 17834, would reflect the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The relatively long drive times to major medical centers, particularly during peak traffic hours, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options, infrequent schedules, and lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities significantly lower the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The inconsistent availability and potential cost of ride-sharing services contribute to a moderate impact on the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and cost of medical transport services provide a positive, but limited, impact on the score.
* **Overall Accessibility:** The combination of factors suggests that accessing breast cancer healthcare in Kulpmont presents challenges. The rural setting and limited transportation infrastructure create barriers for residents.

**Moving to Kulpmont: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

For those considering moving to Kulpmont, the transportation landscape is a critical consideration. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle may face significant difficulties accessing timely and convenient healthcare. The reliance on public transit, which is limited, or ride-sharing and medical transport, which can be costly and require advance planning, presents challenges.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the transportation options available. Proximity to family or friends who can provide transportation support is also a crucial factor. Understanding the limitations of transportation infrastructure is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17834, Kulpmont, would likely reflect the challenges associated with accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations. While the area offers essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and availability issues with ride-sharing and medical transport create barriers. Addressing these transportation challenges through improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and affordable medical transport options would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents, especially those requiring breast cancer screenings and treatments. This is a critical aspect of community well-being, particularly for those considering moving to Kulpmont.