18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 18224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.83 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands meticulous planning. For residents of Freeland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18224), this planning extends beyond the immediate medical concerns to encompass the critical element of transportation. Assessing the accessibility of breast cancer treatment centers is paramount, and understanding the intricacies of commute times, public transit, and alternative transportation options is essential for anyone facing this challenge, or considering moving to Freeland. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview, crafting a “Breast Cancer Score” based on transportation accessibility.

Freeland, nestled in Luzerne County, offers a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to larger urban centers. This duality significantly impacts healthcare access, making the “Breast Cancer Score” a nuanced reflection of available options. The score will consider drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking breast cancer care within this ZIP code.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many Freeland residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The speed and efficiency of a car directly influence the “Breast Cancer Score,” especially when considering appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton, requiring careful navigation of local roadways.

Traveling to Wilkes-Barre, home to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, typically involves a journey along **Interstate 81 (I-81)**. The drive, covering approximately 20 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. **Route 309** provides an alternative, though it is often slower due to more frequent traffic lights and a higher likelihood of congestion. This is particularly true during peak commuting hours, adding stress to an already challenging situation.

Hazleton, with Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton, is closer, roughly 15 miles away. The primary route involves **Route 93**, a winding road that can be prone to slow-downs. The drive time averages 20 to 30 minutes, but can be longer during inclement weather or heavy traffic. These drive times, while relatively manageable, are crucial to factor into the “Breast Cancer Score,” as they impact the patient’s ability to attend appointments and receive timely care.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Freeland and the surrounding areas are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are not always conducive to frequent trips to cancer centers.

The LCTA does offer routes that connect Freeland to Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton, but the frequency of these routes is typically low, often with long wait times between buses. This can be a significant barrier for patients requiring regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Furthermore, the LCTA’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While the buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the overall reliance on public transit can still prove difficult.

The “Breast Cancer Score” must reflect this limited public transit availability. The lack of frequent, convenient, and reliable bus routes contributes negatively to the score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The necessity to plan trips meticulously, factor in potential delays, and navigate a complex schedule adds to the burden of seeking care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Freeland area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to and from treatment centers.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility issues and ensuring they arrive safely at their appointments. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide such services in the region. While these services can be invaluable, they often come at a higher cost than other transportation options.

The “Breast Cancer Score” must incorporate the accessibility and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The availability of these options can significantly improve healthcare access for those who cannot drive or rely on public transit, but the cost and reliability of these services must be carefully considered.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" - A Composite Assessment**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224) is a multifaceted assessment that considers drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport. The score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation of the transportation landscape, taking into account both the strengths and weaknesses of each option.

The score will be influenced by:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to cancer centers, particularly those under 30 minutes, will positively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of frequent, reliable, and ADA-accessible bus routes will positively impact the score. Limited service will negatively impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing services will positively impact the score. Inconsistent service and high costs will negatively impact the score.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of medical transport services will positively impact the score. High costs will negatively impact the score.

**Moving to Freeland:**

For individuals considering moving to Freeland, the “Breast Cancer Score” is a critical factor to consider. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limitations in transportation options for healthcare access must be carefully weighed. Understanding the drive times, the availability of public transit, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services is essential for making an informed decision.

The “Breast Cancer Score” is not just a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in Freeland. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of transportation options, and a commitment to advocating for improved healthcare access within the community. It is a reminder that the journey to healthcare is not just about medical treatments, but also about the vital element of transportation.