18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 18234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 2.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lattimer Mines (ZIP Code 18234)

The quest for optimal healthcare, especially concerning a disease as formidable as breast cancer, necessitates a meticulous understanding of accessibility. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Lattimer Mines (ZIP Code 18234), Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the heart of Luzerne County. We’ll examine the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access, a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this area.

Lattimer Mines, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in neighboring towns, necessitating reliable transportation. The availability of diverse transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, directly impacts the ease and speed with which residents can receive timely diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up care. This score will illuminate the realities of navigating the healthcare system in this specific ZIP code, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents will undoubtedly be personal vehicles. The commute to healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, such as Hazleton, Wilkes-Barre, and Scranton, relies heavily on the local road network. The primary artery for travel is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, providing east-west connectivity. However, accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating a network of secondary roads.

From Lattimer Mines, a trip to the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a prominent healthcare provider, involves a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically entails using **Pennsylvania Route 93 (PA-93)**, which connects Lattimer Mines to the more significant thoroughfare of **Interstate 81 (I-81)**. From there, one can easily access the medical center.

Similarly, reaching the Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton, another vital healthcare resource, requires a drive of roughly 15-20 minutes. This route primarily utilizes **PA-93** and **PA-309**. The ease of driving is paramount, as the efficiency of the route directly affects the ability to attend appointments and receive treatment.

The drive to Scranton, a more distant option, would likely involve a combination of **I-80** and **I-81**, resulting in a commute of approximately an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning and consideration, especially for individuals undergoing treatment requiring frequent visits.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lattimer Mines and the surrounding areas are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency may not fully cater to the healthcare needs of all residents.

The LCTA operates several routes that may offer some degree of connectivity. However, the routes and schedules should be carefully examined. The specific bus numbers serving the Lattimer Mines area, and their direct connections to healthcare facilities, should be checked. The availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning. Residents reliant on public transportation may face longer travel times and potential difficulties in scheduling appointments. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can significantly impact healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. The availability of these services in Lattimer Mines should be assessed. The reliability of these services, particularly during peak hours and in inclement weather, is a critical factor.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized option. Companies like CareRide or Medical Transportation Services offer door-to-door transportation, often equipped with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. The cost of these services and their availability in the area should be investigated.

**Breast Cancer Considerations: A Critical Lens**

For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the ease of transportation becomes even more crucial. Frequent appointments for diagnostic tests, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care demand reliable and accessible transportation. The stress of treatment can be compounded by the challenges of navigating the transportation system.

The availability of convenient parking at healthcare facilities is also essential. The physical demands of treatment can make walking long distances or navigating crowded parking lots difficult.

**Evaluating the Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lattimer Mines (ZIP Code 18234) must consider all these factors. The score would reflect the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options.

A high score would indicate excellent healthcare access, with short drive times, frequent public transit, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transport. A lower score would signal challenges, such as long drive times, limited public transit, and the potential for transportation barriers.

**Moving to Lattimer Mines: A Prudent Assessment**

For those considering a move to Lattimer Mines, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should research the specific healthcare facilities they plan to utilize, including their proximity, parking availability, and patient reviews. They should also investigate the public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a guide, highlighting the complexities of healthcare access in this community. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the need to understand the transportation landscape. By taking these factors into account, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they have the support they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge to seek the best possible care, regardless of their transportation needs.