17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.13 percent of residents in 17866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Coal Township (ZIP Code 17866)**

The insidious nature of breast cancer demands early detection and consistent care. Where you live, and how you move, significantly impacts your ability to access these life-saving resources. This report, a ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Coal Township, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17866), examines the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access, crucial for anyone considering moving to this community or currently residing within its borders. We’ll explore the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services.

Coal Township, nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character, while offering a sense of tranquility, can complicate the journey to specialized medical care. The availability and efficiency of transportation become paramount in navigating the healthcare landscape. This analysis considers factors such as proximity to hospitals, cancer centers, and diagnostic facilities, as well as the viability of various transportation methods.

**Driving to Care: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is essential. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for cancer care, is a significant destination. The drive to Danville from Coal Township primarily involves Route 61 South, a major arterial road. Expect a drive time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Another vital facility is the UPMC Cancer Center in Williamsport. This journey typically involves taking Route 61 North to Route 15 North. The drive time to Williamsport is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. While these routes are generally well-maintained, weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Smaller, local clinics and physician offices within the immediate vicinity of Coal Township, such as those in Shamokin or Mount Carmel, offer more accessible options for primary care and initial screenings. These facilities are generally accessible within a 15 to 20-minute drive, primarily utilizing local roads such as Shamokin Street and Independence Street.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Coal Township are limited. Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or direct trips to major healthcare facilities. While NCTA operates within the county, service to Danville and Williamsport is infrequent and may involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time.

The NCTA buses are equipped with ADA accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts, which is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the sparse schedule and limited route coverage present a significant barrier to reliable healthcare access for those who rely on public transit.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be less consistent in rural areas. For those without access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing can offer a viable, albeit potentially expensive, option for occasional appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. Several companies operate in the region, including medical transport brands like MedStar and First Choice Medical Transportation. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may not be readily available for last-minute appointments.

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

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Coal Township, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to key healthcare facilities are manageable for those with personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation and the potential costs and unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The score should also consider the availability of local resources, such as support groups, screening programs, and patient navigation services. These resources can help individuals navigate the healthcare system and overcome transportation barriers.

**Moving to Coal Township: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Coal Township, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer care facilities and assess the feasibility of their transportation options.

A careful evaluation of the available transportation alternatives is vital. If relying on public transit, researching the NCTA routes and schedules is crucial. If ride-sharing is the preferred option, understanding the local availability and associated costs is essential.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Patient Needs**

In conclusion, Coal Township presents both opportunities and challenges regarding healthcare access. While the drive times to major cancer centers are generally reasonable, the limited public transit options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services require careful consideration.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Coal Township underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system. By understanding the available transportation options and utilizing local support services, residents can improve their chances of early detection, timely treatment, and ultimately, better health outcomes. The focus must remain on ensuring that all residents, regardless of their transportation capabilities, have equitable access to the vital care they need.