17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.48 percent of residents in 17948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.19 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mahanoy City (ZIP Code 17948)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of the disease itself but also the practical challenges of accessing timely and appropriate care. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17948), focuses on the crucial element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. We'll explore the various options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their feasibility in navigating the landscape of breast cancer treatment. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Mahanoy City**, as it directly impacts the quality of life and care available.

Mahanoy City, nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. While the town itself offers some primary care services, the comprehensive breast cancer treatment often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach these centers is paramount, shaping the overall experience of care.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents in 17948 is the personal vehicle. The town is conveniently located near several major roadways. Route 54, a vital artery, connects Mahanoy City to Interstate 81, a major north-south thoroughfare. This provides relatively easy access to larger cities like Pottsville, approximately 15 miles south, and Hazleton, about 25 miles north, where more specialized medical facilities are located. The drive to Pottsville, home to Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Hazleton, with facilities like Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton, is accessible within a 30-45 minute drive.

However, relying solely on personal vehicles presents potential difficulties. Inclement weather, a common occurrence in this region, can significantly impact travel times and road conditions. Winter storms, in particular, can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to crucial appointments. Furthermore, the financial burden of vehicle ownership, including gas, maintenance, and insurance, adds to the overall cost of care.

Public **transportation** options in Mahanoy City are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to facilitate medical appointments. While STS does offer some routes that connect Mahanoy City to Pottsville and Hazleton, the frequency of service is limited, and the travel times are significantly longer than driving. Waiting times between connections can also be substantial.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. STS does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the availability of these buses on specific routes and at specific times should be verified in advance. This is essential for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the **transportation** they need to reach their appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability depends on driver density, which is generally lower in more rural areas like Mahanoy City. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can significantly increase the cost of a ride, adding another layer of financial strain. Furthermore, the availability of rides at all hours of the day and night, especially for those undergoing treatment that may require frequent or unpredictable appointments, is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer another avenue. Companies like LogistiCare and Access2Care often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically provide door-to-door service, accommodating individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, eligibility criteria and prior authorization may be required, and the availability of these services within the specific geographic area needs to be confirmed.

The Breast Cancer Score for Mahanoy City, therefore, needs to consider several factors. The accessibility of major roadways provides a decent baseline for **transportation**. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing, and the need to navigate the complexities of medical **transportation** services, all contribute to a lower overall score.

For individuals considering **moving to Mahanoy City** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, careful planning is essential. The proximity to larger medical centers is a positive factor. However, understanding the potential challenges of **transportation**, including weather-related delays, the limitations of public transit, and the cost and availability of alternative options, is crucial for ensuring timely and consistent access to care.

The Breast Cancer Score would ideally incorporate a detailed assessment of the following: the average drive times to various cancer centers, the frequency and reliability of STS routes to those centers, the availability of ride-sharing services at different times of day, and the ease of access to medical **transportation** services. This data, combined with information on the availability of support services like patient navigators who can assist with **transportation** arrangements, would provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing breast cancer patients in 17948.

The availability of support networks, such as local cancer support groups and community organizations, can also play a vital role. These groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and assistance with **transportation** needs. They may offer rides to appointments, share information about available resources, and help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

In conclusion, while Mahanoy City offers a degree of **healthcare access** due to its proximity to larger medical centers, the **transportation** landscape presents significant hurdles. The Breast Cancer Score for this area would be influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services. For those **moving to Mahanoy City** or currently residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, proactive planning and a thorough understanding of these **transportation** challenges are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes.