17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.26 percent of residents in 17872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 12.65 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shamokin (ZIP Code 17872)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, can be daunting. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Shamokin, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17872), focusing on transportation options to medical facilities offering breast cancer services. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, aiming to illuminate the realities of healthcare access for those considering moving to Shamokin or already residing within its borders. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

Shamokin, nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. Its rural setting and limited public transit options significantly impact healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, will consider these factors, providing a realistic assessment of the ease and convenience of reaching essential medical care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to facilities offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is crucial. The closest major medical centers are located in Danville and Sunbury, requiring travel on various highways and local roads.

From Shamokin, a drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a leading regional healthcare provider, typically involves a journey of approximately 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The primary route utilizes **Route 61 South** to **Route 54 East**, then merging onto **Interstate 80 East** for a short distance before exiting onto **Route 11 North**. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near the interstate ramps.

Alternatively, for those seeking care at Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, the drive stretches to about 45 minutes to an hour. This route involves navigating **Route 61 South** to **Route 45 West**, a winding road that offers scenic views but can be slower.

The drive to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, while offering comprehensive cancer care, presents a more significant challenge. The journey, roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, entails traveling on **Route 61 South** to **Interstate 81 South**. This longer drive necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

These drive times underscore the importance of personal vehicles for healthcare access in Shamokin. Residents must factor in travel time when scheduling appointments, undergoing treatments, or attending follow-up visits. The condition of the roads and the potential for inclement weather further complicate this dependence on personal transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Shamokin are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services within the county, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities.

The NCTA does offer routes that connect Shamokin to larger towns like Sunbury, where connections to other transit options might be available. However, these connections often involve multiple transfers and extended travel times, making them less practical for individuals undergoing cancer treatment or requiring frequent medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses are available, providing accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited service frequency and route coverage remain significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

For those considering moving to Shamokin and relying on public transportation, a thorough assessment of the NCTA routes and schedules is essential. Understanding the limitations and potential travel times is crucial for planning healthcare appointments and managing treatment schedules.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Shamokin area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with transportation to and from medical appointments, provide another option. Several companies operate in the region, including medical transport services. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring patients arrive safely at their appointments.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access in Shamokin. These services can be invaluable for those unable to drive or rely on public transit, but their reliability and affordability are essential factors to evaluate.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Shamokin (ZIP Code 17872) reflects the combined impact of drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score would likely be moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural setting.

The score would be influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability. The presence of medical transport services would provide a positive factor, mitigating some of the transportation challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Shamokin, a thorough understanding of these transportation factors is critical. Researching the specific healthcare facilities and their transportation options is essential. Contacting the NCTA, ride-sharing providers, and medical transport services to assess their availability and cost is highly recommended.

**Moving to Shamokin: A Call for Informed Decisions**

The decision to move to Shamokin, or any rural area, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the community may offer a sense of peace and tranquility, the limitations in transportation options can significantly impact access to essential medical care, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and making informed decisions. Residents and prospective residents must proactively research their healthcare options, assess their transportation needs, and plan accordingly.

The availability of quality healthcare is a critical factor in overall well-being. By carefully evaluating the transportation challenges and exploring all available options, individuals can navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure they receive the care they need. This proactive approach is crucial for anyone considering moving to Shamokin or already residing within its borders, especially when facing the complexities of breast cancer.