17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.22 percent of residents in 17847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.18 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17847)

The decision to relocate is often driven by a multitude of factors, from career opportunities to lifestyle preferences. However, for individuals and families grappling with or at risk of breast cancer, the availability and accessibility of quality healthcare become paramount. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of healthcare access, specifically focusing on breast cancer care, for residents of Milton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17847), considering the crucial element of transportation.

Milton, nestled along the Susquehanna River, offers a charming small-town atmosphere. But its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer treatment. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in this area, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions.

**The Geography of Care: Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary healthcare hub for Milton residents is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 15 miles away. This distance translates to a drive time that varies depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most direct route utilizes **US-11** and **PA-147**, typically resulting in a 20- to 30-minute commute. However, rush hour traffic, particularly around Danville, can extend this travel time significantly.

Other healthcare facilities, such as Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, are also accessible, requiring a drive of roughly 15 to 20 minutes via **PA-405** and **US-15**. These routes are generally less congested than the Danville corridor, offering a slightly more predictable travel time. However, the availability of specialized breast cancer services might be limited at these alternative locations, necessitating a longer journey to Geisinger.

For those residing in the more remote areas of ZIP Code 17847, travel times can be considerably longer. Residents in the northern reaches of the zip code, closer to the Bald Eagle State Forest, might face a 30- to 45-minute drive to reach Geisinger, highlighting the importance of reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Milton and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider, the **River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT)**, offers bus routes that connect Milton to nearby towns, including Lewisburg and Williamsport. However, these routes are infrequent, and their schedules may not align well with medical appointments.

The RVT does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the lack of direct routes to major healthcare facilities like Geisinger Medical Center and the extended travel times associated with transfers make public transit a less-than-ideal option for patients requiring regular breast cancer treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Milton area, providing a more flexible transportation option compared to public transit. However, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, including **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and **LogistiCare**, often contracted by insurance providers to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Navigating the Breast Cancer Journey: Considerations for Milton Residents**

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, the need for timely and consistent access to care is critical. This includes regular appointments with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, as well as access to diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Milton, PA, reflects the limitations of transportation options. While Geisinger Medical Center provides comprehensive breast cancer care, the reliance on personal vehicles or the challenges of limited public transit and ride-sharing services can create barriers to access.

**Moving to Milton: Healthcare Access as a Key Factor**

For those considering a move to Milton, the availability of healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer treatment, should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and explore the available options.

Individuals with existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and the reliability of transportation options. This might involve assessing the feasibility of driving, the availability of ride-sharing services, or the potential for utilizing medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Milton, PA, underscores the importance of accessible transportation in ensuring equitable healthcare access. While the existing healthcare infrastructure offers quality care, the limitations of transportation options can pose challenges for residents.

Enhancing public transit options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting medical transportation programs would significantly improve healthcare access for individuals in Milton and the surrounding areas. These improvements would not only benefit breast cancer patients but also enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.