18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.26 percent of residents in 18219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.74 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18219 (Conyngham, PA)

The journey to effective breast cancer care is a complex one, interwoven with the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. For residents of Conyngham, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18219), this journey is further shaped by the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering the practicalities of reaching essential medical services, offering a crucial perspective for anyone **moving to Conyngham** or seeking to understand the healthcare landscape of this community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative evaluation reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare within and around 18219. It considers factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the **healthcare access** situation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Conyngham, a charming borough nestled in Luzerne County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation presents challenges when it comes to specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. The primary challenge is the distance to specialized facilities, making reliable and efficient **transportation** a critical factor in timely diagnosis and treatment.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the region are Interstate 80 (I-80) and Pennsylvania Route 309 (PA-309). The drive to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey primarily involves taking PA-309 south.

Another critical option is Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton, which is roughly a 20-30 minute drive via PA-93 and PA-309. This closer proximity makes it a more accessible option for some residents. Further afield, but offering more specialized services, is the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. Reaching this center requires a drive of approximately 2-2.5 hours, primarily utilizing I-80 East and I-476 South (the Pennsylvania Turnpike).

These drive times, while manageable for routine appointments, can become stressful during emergencies or when frequent visits are required for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or follow-up appointments. The condition of the roads, weather conditions, and the potential for traffic delays on PA-309, in particular, must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in the Conyngham area are limited, presenting a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county. However, routes and schedules are not optimized for medical appointments.

The LCTA Route 18, which runs through the area, might offer some connection to regional healthcare facilities, but frequency is limited, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Additionally, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are available on LCTA buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited route network and infrequent service make public transit a less-than-ideal solution for many seeking breast cancer care.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Conyngham area, but their availability and reliability can vary. Demand is often higher during peak hours, and the cost of a ride to a distant medical facility can be substantial. These services can be a viable option for some, particularly for those who cannot drive and do not have access to other **transportation** options.

Medical **transportation** services, such as medical car services, are also available, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer door-to-door service, ensuring that patients arrive safely and on time. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who require assistance with mobility or those undergoing treatment that affects their ability to drive. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of 18219 is moderately challenging. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, the lack of robust public transit options and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create significant hurdles.

The score reflects the importance of having access to a personal vehicle or relying on family and friends for **transportation**. The cost of ride-sharing or medical transport can add financial strain, and the limited availability of these services could pose a challenge for those with complex treatment schedules.

For anyone **moving to Conyngham** and concerned about breast cancer care, careful consideration of these **transportation** challenges is crucial. Proactive planning, including identifying reliable **transportation** options, establishing relationships with healthcare providers, and understanding the available resources, is essential for ensuring timely and effective care.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for 18219, several measures could be implemented. Increased LCTA service frequency and route optimization to better serve medical facilities would be beneficial. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies could offer subsidized **transportation** options for patients. Furthermore, community initiatives to educate residents about available resources and support programs could significantly improve **healthcare access**.

Ultimately, the journey through breast cancer requires more than just medical expertise; it demands accessible and reliable **transportation**. By understanding the challenges and exploring the available options, residents of Conyngham can navigate the healthcare landscape with greater confidence and ensure they receive the care they deserve. The “Breast Cancer Score” serves as a reminder of the importance of considering **transportation** when assessing **healthcare access** and the critical role it plays in the fight against this disease.