The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
0.00 percent of residents in 18046 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital with a distance of 3.28 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score | 100 |
---|---|
People Score | 92 |
Provider Score | 90 |
Hospital Score | 80 |
Travel Score | 81 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 18046 | East Texas | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania
**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18046**
Zip code 18046, nestled in the heart of East Texas, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly when considering the crucial aspect of breast cancer screening and treatment. Understanding the transportation infrastructure is paramount in evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area. This score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, influencing their overall health outcomes. The ability to get to appointments, whether for routine mammograms, specialist consultations, or intensive treatments, is a critical factor.
The "Breast Cancer Score" for 18046 is intricately linked to the available transportation options. The challenge lies in the geographical realities of East Texas, where distances between towns and healthcare facilities can be significant. The availability of reliable transportation directly impacts the timeliness and frequency of medical care. The score, therefore, considers the accessibility of various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport.
The cornerstone of transportation in 18046, and the surrounding region, is the reliance on personal vehicles. Residents primarily use the network of highways and local roads to reach healthcare facilities. Driving times are a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." The journey to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, such as those in Tyler, often necessitates travel on major routes.
For example, a trip to the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler would likely involve navigating **Highway 69** and **Highway 64**. The drive, depending on the specific location within 18046, could range from 30 minutes to an hour or more. Similarly, reaching facilities in Longview might involve traveling on **Interstate 20** and local roads, with drive times varying based on traffic and the precise destination.
The condition of these roads, including their maintenance and safety features, also influences the score. Well-maintained roads with adequate lighting and clear signage contribute to a higher score, as they facilitate safer and more efficient travel. Conversely, poorly maintained roads, especially those prone to flooding or other hazards, can negatively impact access, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment or those with mobility limitations.
Public transportation options in 18046 are limited, which significantly affects the "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of buses or other public transit is often sparse in rural areas. This absence poses a challenge for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or are unable to drive due to their medical condition or treatment side effects.
The lack of robust public transit reduces the "Breast Cancer Score" because it restricts access for a segment of the population. The absence of ADA-compliant buses or routes further exacerbates the problem for individuals with disabilities. This limitation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Their availability and cost, however, are crucial factors in the "Breast Cancer Score." The presence of these services in 18046, and their reliability, can significantly improve access.
The availability of ride-sharing services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of these services, moreover, can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The affordability and availability of ride-sharing services are carefully considered when calculating the "Breast Cancer Score."
Medical transportation services play a vital role in assisting individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, which may include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services, are particularly important for patients undergoing cancer treatment.
The availability of these services, their response times, and their coverage area significantly influence the "Breast Cancer Score." The presence of reputable medical transportation providers, such as CareRide or MedStar, can enhance access to care, especially for patients who cannot drive themselves. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant factor.
The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities to the population center of 18046. The closer the facilities, the higher the score. This proximity reduces travel times and makes it easier for patients to attend appointments.
The location of hospitals, clinics, and cancer centers, and their accessibility via various transportation modes, are key determinants of the score. The presence of a local clinic that offers mammograms, for example, would positively impact the score. The availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance is also crucial.
The "Breast Cancer Score" is dynamic and can change over time. Improvements in the transportation infrastructure, such as the expansion of public transit or the introduction of new ride-sharing services, can increase the score. Conversely, the closure of a local clinic or a decline in the quality of road maintenance can decrease the score.
The score is not merely a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need. It encourages the development of strategies to improve transportation options and address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas.
The "Breast Cancer Score" is a multifaceted assessment that integrates several factors. It highlights the critical role of transportation in determining healthcare access for residents of 18046. The score serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members.
It encourages them to work together to improve the availability and affordability of transportation options, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all residents. The score emphasizes the importance of creating a healthcare environment where individuals can easily access the care they need, regardless of their location or transportation limitations.
For individuals considering moving to East Texas, understanding the "Breast Cancer Score" in 18046 is essential. It provides a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this area. It allows prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to assess the overall quality of life.
The "Breast Cancer Score" is a living document, a constant reminder of the importance of healthcare access, and a catalyst for positive change. It underscores the need for continuous improvement in transportation and healthcare services, ensuring that all residents of 18046 can receive the care they deserve.
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