17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.01 percent of residents in 17868 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 1.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is more than just a physical trip. It's an emotional undertaking, intertwined with logistical complexities that can significantly impact a patient's well-being. For residents of Riverside, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17868), understanding the landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a composite assessment of the ease with which individuals can reach essential breast cancer services. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative **transportation** solutions, offering a comprehensive view for those already residing in Riverside and those considering **moving to Riverside**.

Riverside, nestled in Northumberland County, offers a quaint, small-town charm. However, its relative remoteness necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The closest comprehensive breast cancer services are primarily located in the larger towns and cities surrounding Riverside, requiring residents to navigate a network of roads and potentially explore alternative **transportation** methods.

**Driving the Distance: A Road-Based Assessment**

The primary arteries for accessing breast cancer services from Riverside are Route 11, Route 54, and, to a lesser extent, Route 225. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic fluctuations, particularly during peak commuting hours. The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is a critical benchmark.

The drive to Geisinger, a vital hub for breast cancer care, typically involves taking Route 11 south. This route, a major thoroughfare, usually offers a smooth, albeit potentially congested, journey. Under normal conditions, the drive should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes. However, factors like rush hour, construction, or inclement weather can easily extend this travel time.

Another key destination is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a facility offering a range of breast cancer services. The drive to Lewisburg usually involves taking Route 11 north, again a primary road. The drive typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Lewisburg.

For more specialized services or consultations, residents might need to travel further afield, potentially to larger cities like Harrisburg or Scranton. These longer trips, often involving Interstate 80 or the more circuitous Route 147, would significantly increase travel time and add to the overall burden on patients.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Riverside and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider of public transit is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA). However, the NCTA's services, while available, are not specifically designed for frequent or direct routes to major medical centers.

The NCTA operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can be a significant challenge for individuals needing prompt access to medical appointments. While the NCTA does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the scheduling requirements and limited routes pose a considerable hurdle.

The NCTA's routes often require transfers, further extending travel times. The lack of dedicated bus routes directly serving Geisinger or Evangelical necessitates careful planning and potentially lengthy wait times. This limitation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Riverside can be inconsistent. Wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak demand periods could add to the financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) and other regional providers operate in the area, offering door-to-door service and often accommodating mobility needs. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, potentially adding to the financial strain associated with breast cancer care.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868) is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer services. While the proximity to Geisinger and Evangelical offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit significantly impact the overall score.

The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major breast cancer service providers (Geisinger, Evangelical).
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and directness of NCTA routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant **transportation** options.

Considering these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868) is moderate. While the proximity to essential medical facilities is a positive factor, the limitations in public transit and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services create obstacles. Individuals relying on public transit or lacking personal vehicles will face significant hurdles in accessing timely and convenient breast cancer care.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For residents of Riverside, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a reliable **transportation** plan is crucial. This might involve arranging carpools with family or friends, exploring the NCTA's demand-response system, or budgeting for ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

For those considering **moving to Riverside**, the availability of reliable **transportation** to medical facilities should be a key consideration. Assessing personal mobility needs and understanding the limitations of public transit is vital. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services is also crucial.

The journey to healthcare, especially for breast cancer, requires more than just medical expertise. It necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape. By acknowledging the challenges and proactively planning for **transportation** needs, residents of Riverside can navigate the complexities of **healthcare access** and ensure timely access to essential breast cancer services. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that the path to wellness is a multifaceted journey, requiring careful consideration of both medical care and the means to reach it.