17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.48 percent of residents in 17930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cumbola (ZIP Code 17930)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, demands more than just a diagnosis. It requires a reliable, accessible, and often, a comforting transportation network. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17930 (Cumbola, Pennsylvania), meticulously examines the transportation landscape, offering insights into healthcare access for residents, particularly those considering moving to Cumbola. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities.

Cumbola, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The rural nature of the area, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel times and fewer public transportation choices. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, weighs these factors heavily, aiming to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

For residents of Cumbola, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments will likely be personal vehicles. The major arteries connecting Cumbola to regional healthcare facilities are Route 901 and Interstate 81. Route 901 offers a direct route to Pottsville, the county seat, where several medical facilities, including the Schuylkill Medical Center, are located. Interstate 81 provides access to larger cities like Harrisburg and Allentown, home to specialized cancer centers and hospitals.

Drive times, a critical component of the Breast Cancer Score, fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. A trip to Schuylkill Medical Center in Pottsville, via Route 901, typically takes around 15-20 minutes in favorable conditions. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can extend significantly. Travel to Harrisburg, a journey of approximately 70 miles via Interstate 81, could take upwards of an hour and a half, factoring in potential traffic congestion. Allentown, further east, presents a similar challenge, with a drive time of around an hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options in Cumbola are limited, impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, service frequency and route coverage in Cumbola are less extensive compared to more populated areas. While STS does offer some routes that pass through Cumbola, they may not directly serve medical facilities or operate during convenient hours for appointments.

STS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges, a factor that positively influences the Breast Cancer Score. However, the limited frequency and route availability remain a significant hurdle for those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. Their availability in Cumbola, however, is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. While ride-sharing services may be accessible, their presence can be sporadic, and wait times can be longer, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or longer distances, which negatively affects the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services provide specialized support for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the Schuylkill County area. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required. The Breast Cancer Score considers the presence and accessibility of these services as a crucial element in evaluating healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Cancer patients often require assistance with transportation, and local organizations may offer resources. The American Cancer Society, for example, may provide transportation assistance or connect patients with volunteer drivers. Understanding the availability of these support networks is an integral part of the overall assessment.

Moving to Cumbola, while offering the allure of a quieter, more rural lifestyle, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of evaluating transportation options and understanding the potential challenges. While the area boasts a sense of community, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services necessitates proactive planning.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 17930 reflects a nuanced picture. The proximity to Pottsville and the presence of Route 901 offer relatively quick access to basic medical care. However, the limited public transportation, inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the need for longer drives to specialized cancer centers in Harrisburg or Allentown present significant challenges. The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, considering factors such as personal mobility, financial resources, and the availability of support services.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a tool for informed decision-making. It encourages potential residents to evaluate their individual needs and circumstances, ensuring that they can access the necessary healthcare services with minimal disruption and maximum comfort. The score underscores the importance of considering the transportation landscape when assessing healthcare access, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer. It is a reminder that the journey to healthcare is as important as the destination itself.