17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.38 percent of residents in 17944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 4.84 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Llewellyn, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17944)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex undertaking. It involves not only the emotional weight of the illness itself, but also the logistical challenges of accessing timely and appropriate medical care. For residents of Llewellyn, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17944), understanding the transportation landscape is crucial in navigating this challenging period. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of healthcare accessibility, focusing on transportation options and their impact on a patient's ability to receive comprehensive breast cancer care. It is a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Llewellyn.

The Breast Cancer Score considers several factors. These include the proximity of specialized breast cancer centers, the availability and reliability of various transportation modes, the potential travel times, and the overall ease of access to care. The score is not a numerical value, but rather a descriptive evaluation, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure in relation to healthcare needs.

Llewellyn, nestled in Schuylkill County, is a small, rural community. This geographic isolation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for specialized services. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. The major roadways serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 901, which runs directly through Llewellyn, and Pennsylvania Route 54, providing access to larger towns and cities. Interstate 81, a major north-south artery, is accessible via these routes, offering connections to regional medical centers.

Drive times are a significant factor. The closest hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers are in Pottsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via PA-901 and PA-61. These centers typically offer diagnostic services, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, for more specialized treatments or clinical trials, patients may need to travel further.

Philadelphia, with its renowned medical institutions, is roughly a 2-hour drive via I-81 and I-76. Hershey Medical Center, another major cancer care provider, is about a 1.5-hour drive, primarily via I-81. These longer distances necessitate careful planning and can be a considerable burden on patients undergoing treatment, especially those experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Public transportation options are limited in Llewellyn. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, service to Llewellyn is infrequent, and routes are primarily designed to connect to larger towns. The availability of public transit for medical appointments is therefore restricted, and planning is essential. The STS does offer ADA-accessible buses, but the limited frequency and potential for lengthy travel times make it a less-than-ideal option for many patients, particularly those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Llewellyn is inconsistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for patients who depend on these services for transportation. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate rapidly, adding to the financial burden of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. These services, such as MedRide or First Transit, offer non-emergency medical transportation. They can provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and often have vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may have limited availability. Furthermore, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The Breast Cancer Score for Llewellyn, therefore, reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for patients. The longer drive times to specialized cancer centers in Philadelphia or Hershey further complicate the situation. The need for careful planning, reliance on family and friends for support, and the potential financial burden of transportation all contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering moving to Llewellyn and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or at high risk, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. It is vital to evaluate the availability of personal support networks, the reliability of transportation alternatives, and the financial implications of accessing care. Understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure allows patients to proactively plan for their medical needs and ensure they can receive the care they deserve.

The Breast Cancer Score is not intended to discourage individuals from living in Llewellyn. Instead, it is designed to raise awareness of the transportation challenges and encourage proactive planning. By understanding the limitations and exploring all available options, patients can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and receive the best possible care. This includes exploring options like telehealth appointments for follow-up care, when possible, and ensuring that all transportation needs are addressed in advance.

In conclusion, while Llewellyn offers a close-knit community and a peaceful lifestyle, the Breast Cancer Score reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential for long travel times require careful consideration. Planning ahead, building a strong support network, and exploring all available transportation options are essential for patients seeking breast cancer care in this rural setting. The ability to navigate these challenges is a testament to the resilience of the community and the importance of prioritizing healthcare access for all residents.