17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.29 percent of residents in 17864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 23.85 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Port Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17864)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17864), the journey to this vital care involves navigating a landscape defined by rurality, limited public transportation, and the imperative of timely access. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access within and around this community, offering insights for residents and potential newcomers alike.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the drive times to key healthcare providers. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for cancer care, is a crucial destination. From the heart of Port Trevorton, the drive to Geisinger typically spans approximately 40-50 minutes, primarily utilizing **Route 147** and **US-11/15**. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can add to this travel time, emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Another significant healthcare provider is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg. The drive to Evangelical, a slightly shorter trip, is generally around 30-40 minutes, primarily via **Route 147** and **US-15**. This shorter travel time offers a potential advantage for residents seeking certain services, though the specific cancer care offerings might vary.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. The absence of readily available public transportation presents a significant challenge, particularly for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive due to medical conditions. This is where the "Breast Cancer Score" begins to reveal the complexities of healthcare access in Port Trevorton.

Public transportation options are limited. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) provides some service in the broader region, but routes directly serving Port Trevorton are sparse. The availability of buses, their frequency, and the presence of ADA-compliant features (wheelchair accessibility, etc.) are critical considerations. Investigating specific route numbers, schedules, and accessibility features is essential for those relying on public transit. The SVTA website and local information sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date details.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability and cost can vary significantly depending on demand and the time of day. In a rural area like Port Trevorton, the wait times for a ride-share can be longer, and the fares might be higher compared to urban centers. This factor adds another layer of complexity to the "Breast Cancer Score," particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to appointments, are another crucial element. Several companies specialize in this area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. Researching available medical transport providers in the region, such as MedTrans or First Transit, is vital. Their service areas, costs, and the types of medical needs they accommodate should be carefully evaluated.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within the community. Local organizations, support groups, and resources for cancer patients and their families can play a crucial role in navigating the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of these services, and their accessibility, significantly impacts the overall healthcare experience.

For individuals considering moving to Port Trevorton, the "Breast Cancer Score" becomes an even more critical factor. Prospective residents must carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Understanding the drive times, public transportation limitations, ride-sharing options, and medical transport availability is paramount. They must also research the local healthcare providers, their specialties, and their insurance acceptance policies.

The score should also factor in the availability of primary care physicians in the area, as they are often the first point of contact for any health concerns. The proximity of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is also essential. Furthermore, the availability of imaging services, such as mammography and MRI, is crucial for early detection and diagnosis.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static metric; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community resources. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to maintain its relevance and accuracy.

The experience of navigating healthcare, especially for a life-altering diagnosis like breast cancer, is deeply personal. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a framework for understanding the realities of transportation and healthcare access in Port Trevorton, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and advocate for their healthcare needs. The score's effectiveness lies in its ability to illuminate the challenges and opportunities, fostering a more informed and supportive environment for those facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a call to action. It encourages residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders to collaborate and address the transportation and healthcare access gaps that exist in Port Trevorton. This collaborative effort is crucial to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need, when they need it.