18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.67 percent of residents in 18250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital with a distance of 2.31 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Hill, PA (ZIP Code 18250)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis can be daunting, and the journey to recovery often hinges on timely access to quality healthcare. For residents of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18250), the question of "where do I go?" becomes paramount. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape, examining the ease of access to breast cancer specialists and treatment centers, ultimately contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" for this community. This score considers the realities of commuting, public transit, and alternative transportation options, painting a picture of healthcare access within the context of daily life.

Summit Hill, nestled in the heart of Carbon County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's location, while offering scenic beauty, necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. The ability to reach specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis will explore the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, providing a comprehensive overview of how residents can navigate the journey to healthcare.

The primary mode of transportation for most Summit Hill residents is likely the personal vehicle. The town's location influences drive times to various medical facilities. The nearest major hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services, are located in Allentown and Scranton. Driving to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown, a well-regarded cancer center, typically involves a journey of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. This route generally utilizes PA-93 South, connecting to I-78 East.

Alternatively, the drive to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, near Scranton, is roughly an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and 45 minutes, again influenced by traffic conditions. This route often involves traveling north on PA-93, connecting to I-80 East, then to I-81 North. These drive times, while manageable, highlight the importance of planning, especially for appointments, treatments, and potential emergencies.

The condition of the roads is another factor. While PA-93 is generally well-maintained, inclement weather can significantly impact travel times, particularly during winter months. Residents should factor in potential delays due to snow, ice, and other weather-related hazards. The reliability of a personal vehicle and the ability to navigate these routes become essential considerations for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

Public transportation options in and around Summit Hill are limited. The local bus service, operated by the Carbon Transit Authority, offers routes within Carbon County. However, these routes primarily serve local destinations and may not directly connect to the major hospitals in Allentown or Scranton. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA features can be obtained from the Carbon Transit Authority.

For those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Summit Hill and the surrounding areas can be variable. The cost and reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered, especially for regular appointments and treatments. Booking rides in advance is highly recommended, particularly for early morning or late-evening appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, also provide a crucial lifeline. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely and comfortably. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive themselves. Researching and identifying reputable medical transportation providers in the area is a vital step for anyone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis.

The availability of these services, however, is not uniform. The distance to major medical centers and the limitations of public transit create a potential barrier to healthcare access for some residents. The ability to secure reliable transportation can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend follow-up appointments, and receive timely care.

For individuals considering moving to Summit Hill, or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Proximity to family and friends who can provide transportation support is a valuable asset. Building a network of support, including family, friends, and community organizations, can significantly ease the burden of transportation challenges.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Summit Hill, therefore, reflects a nuanced picture. While the drive times to major medical centers are within a reasonable range, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential impact of weather conditions add further complexity. The score also considers the availability of medical transportation services and the potential for support from family and friends.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Summit Hill is influenced by the individual's specific circumstances, including their mobility, access to a personal vehicle, and the support network they have in place. While the area offers access to quality healthcare, the transportation landscape requires careful consideration and proactive planning. The ability to navigate these challenges effectively is essential for ensuring timely access to care and ultimately, improving patient outcomes. The journey to healthcare is a shared one, and the community's ability to support its residents facing breast cancer is a testament to its strength and resilience.