17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.44 percent of residents in 17979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

## Navigating the Breast Cancer Landscape in Summit Station (17979): A Transportation Perspective

Considering a move to Summit Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17979), and concerned about **healthcare access**, particularly for breast cancer care? This guide provides a comprehensive overview of **transportation** options available, crucial for navigating the healthcare system. Understanding these routes and resources is vital for informed decision-making, ensuring timely access to screenings, treatment, and support. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of the landscape you’ll encounter.

Summit Station, a small community nestled in Schuylkill County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding **transportation** to specialized medical facilities. Accessing comprehensive breast cancer care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, demanding careful planning and awareness of available resources.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, several routes connect Summit Station to regional healthcare providers. The primary artery is **Route 895**, which snakes through the heart of the community. Traveling east on Route 895 leads to Pottsville, the county seat, a hub for healthcare services. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

From Pottsville, access to larger medical centers is available. **Route 61** provides a direct link to Reading, Pennsylvania, home to the Reading Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The drive to Reading typically takes around an hour, but this can fluctuate depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.

Alternatively, heading west on Route 895, then connecting to **Interstate 81** offers another option. Interstate 81 provides access to the Lehigh Valley, home to St. Luke's University Health Network and other prominent hospitals. The drive to Allentown, a major city in the Lehigh Valley, via I-81, can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Navigating these routes requires careful consideration of weather conditions, especially during winter months. Snow and ice can significantly impact travel times and road safety. Regular vehicle maintenance and preparedness are crucial for safe and reliable **transportation**.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Network**

Public **transportation** options in Summit Station are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) offers bus routes within Schuylkill County. However, service frequency and routes may not directly connect Summit Station to major healthcare facilities.

STS Route 40, for example, travels between Pottsville and Pine Grove, passing through Summit Station. While this route offers a local connection, it may not provide direct access to specialized breast cancer centers. Passengers may need to transfer to other routes or modes of **transportation** to reach their final destination.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the accessibility features of each route is essential. Contacting STS directly to inquire about route schedules, ADA accessibility, and potential transfer points is highly recommended.

The STS website or local transit information centers can provide the most up-to-date route maps, schedules, and fare information. Planning your trip in advance and allowing ample time for travel, including potential delays, is vital.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Summit Station. Booking rides in advance, especially for medical appointments, is highly recommended.

Medical **transportation** services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. Several companies operate in the area, including:

* **Medical Transportation Services (MTS):** A national provider with a presence in Pennsylvania.
* **CareRide:** A regional provider specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation**.
* **First Transit:** A large **transportation** company that may offer medical **transportation** services in the area.

Researching and contacting these providers in advance is crucial. Inquire about their service areas, pricing, insurance coverage, and availability. Booking medical **transportation** well in advance of your appointments is essential to secure your ride.

**Healthcare Access and the Moving Decision**

The availability of **transportation** directly impacts **healthcare access**. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, timely access to screenings, diagnosis, treatment, and support is paramount. Considering the **transportation** options available in Summit Station is a critical factor when evaluating a move.

When assessing **healthcare access**, consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare providers:** Evaluate the distance and travel time to hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics.
* **Availability of **transportation** options:** Assess the reliability, cost, and accessibility of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services.
* **Insurance coverage:** Confirm that your insurance plan covers **transportation** costs for medical appointments.
* **Support systems:** Identify local support groups, patient navigators, and community resources that can provide assistance with **transportation** and other needs.

Moving to Summit Station requires careful planning and research. Understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access** is crucial for making an informed decision. Prioritize your health needs and ensure you have a reliable plan for accessing the care you require.

**Conclusion: Empowering Your Journey**

Navigating the breast cancer landscape in Summit Station demands a proactive approach. By understanding the available **transportation** options, you can proactively manage your **healthcare access**. Whether relying on personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, or medical **transportation**, planning and preparation are key.

Prioritize your health, research your options, and build a support network. By taking these steps, you can empower yourself to navigate the challenges and embrace the possibilities of life in Summit Station, ensuring access to the vital care you deserve.