17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.29 percent of residents in 17929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.61 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Cressona, PA (ZIP Code 17929)**

Considering a move to Cressona, Pennsylvania, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options available from ZIP code 17929, evaluating commute times to relevant medical facilities. We'll examine driving routes, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of your healthcare accessibility.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment, reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers. Factors include travel time, convenience, cost, and the availability of transportation alternatives. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Cressona or who already resides there and is navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Driving Routes and Drive Times**

Cressona, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique transportation challenge. The primary method of transportation is personal vehicles. Therefore, drive times become a critical element in our Breast Cancer Score assessment.

The closest major hospital offering comprehensive cancer care is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, approximately a 10- to 15-minute drive via **Route 61** South. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience traffic during peak hours. The drive is relatively straightforward, making it a convenient option for routine screenings and treatments.

For more specialized care, including advanced oncology services, you might need to travel to larger facilities. Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center in Reading is about a 45- to 60-minute drive, primarily via **Interstate 78** East and **Route 61** South. This journey involves highway travel, which is generally faster but can be affected by traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour.

Another option is Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest in Allentown, approximately a 1-hour to 1 hour and 15-minute drive. This route primarily utilizes **Interstate 78** East. While the distance is greater, the highway travel can be more efficient than navigating smaller roads.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit in Cressona and the surrounding areas is limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not optimized for frequent trips to major medical facilities.

STS Route 401 is the most relevant, offering service between Pottsville and Schuylkill Haven. From Cressona, you would need to travel to a bus stop along **Route 61** or **Route 183** to access this route. However, this route may not directly serve major hospitals.

ADA accessibility varies by bus. Passengers with disabilities should confirm accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, when planning their journeys. The STS website or phone line should provide detailed information on specific route accessibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cressona area, but their availability can fluctuate. Demand and driver availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is, therefore, less than ideal.

Medical transport services offer a more reliable option for those needing assistance. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments.

Several medical transport providers serve the Schuylkill County area. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Researching local providers and verifying their coverage area and insurance acceptance is essential.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

Beyond transportation, the availability and quality of healthcare facilities are paramount. Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg offers a range of services, including breast cancer screening and treatment.

Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center in Reading and Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest in Allentown provide comprehensive cancer care, including surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. These facilities offer specialized services and advanced treatment options.

**Breast Cancer Score Summary**

Cressona's Breast Cancer Score is moderate. While Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg offers convenient access, the dependence on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The longer commute times to more comprehensive cancer centers in Reading and Allentown require careful planning.

The availability of ride-sharing services is variable, and medical transport services offer a more reliable alternative.

**Recommendations for Cressona Residents**

* **Prioritize preventative care:** Schedule regular screenings and follow-up appointments.
* **Explore medical transport:** Research and establish contact with local medical transport providers.
* **Plan ahead:** Factor in travel time and potential traffic delays when scheduling appointments.
* **Consider carpooling:** If possible, arrange rides with friends or family.
* **Stay informed:** Keep up-to-date on public transit schedules and ride-sharing availability.

**Conclusion**

Moving to Cressona, PA, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. While the area offers access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate proactive planning. By understanding the transportation options and available resources, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure timely access to vital medical care. This analysis provides a starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Cressona.