18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.06 percent of residents in 18403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 4.85 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Archbald, PA (ZIP Code 18403)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a disease as complex and emotionally charged as breast cancer, is not merely a medical one. It is also a logistical one, a dance of transportation, time, and access. For residents of Archbald, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18403), the Breast Cancer Score is a composite measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

Archbald, a borough nestled in the Lackawanna County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. While the area boasts a close-knit community and a relatively low population density, the availability of specialized medical care, particularly for breast cancer, is concentrated in larger cities. This necessitates a degree of travel, making the efficiency and reliability of transportation paramount.

The primary arteries for automotive travel from Archbald are Interstate 81 (I-81) and the smaller, but equally important, routes like Scranton Carbondale Highway (US-6). I-81, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers the most direct route to Scranton, the county seat and a hub for medical services. The drive to Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute, a prominent cancer care facility in Scranton, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The Scranton Carbondale Highway (US-6) provides an alternative route, though it can be subject to more congestion, especially during peak hours.

Driving times to other crucial healthcare providers, such as Moses Taylor Hospital and Regional Hospital of Scranton, are generally within the same timeframe, ranging from 20 to 30 minutes. These hospitals offer comprehensive cancer care programs, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The ease of driving, however, is contingent on the availability of a personal vehicle, which is not a given for all residents.

Public transportation options in Archbald and the surrounding areas are limited but present. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, although routes are not always frequent or direct. The primary route serving Archbald is Route 21, which connects the borough to Scranton. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically running every hour or two during weekdays and even less frequently on weekends.

For individuals with mobility limitations, ADA-accessible buses are available on LCTA routes, including Route 21. These buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating areas. However, the reliance on public transit can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey to Scranton and its medical facilities. The lack of frequent service and the potential for delays can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment, who may require frequent appointments and experience fatigue or other side effects.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area, including Archbald. These services offer a more flexible and convenient transportation option compared to public transit. However, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources. The expense of multiple rides per week for treatment can quickly add up.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Scranton area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients arrive safely and comfortably. However, medical transportation services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The Breast Cancer Score for Archbald considers all these factors, weighting them based on their impact on healthcare access. The score takes into account the drive times to major cancer care facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests greater challenges.

For residents of Archbald diagnosed with breast cancer, the transportation landscape presents a mix of advantages and disadvantages. The relatively short drive times to Scranton's medical facilities are a significant benefit, especially for those with personal vehicles. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the need for advance planning with medical transportation services can create obstacles.

The Breast Cancer Score for Archbald also considers the specific needs of breast cancer patients. Frequent appointments for diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up care require reliable and convenient transportation. The physical and emotional toll of the disease can make travel more challenging, necessitating accessible and comfortable transportation options.

The score also factors in the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare access, providing guidance, resources, and financial assistance. The presence of these support systems can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score, mitigating the challenges associated with transportation.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible and equitable healthcare. It highlights the need for continued investment in transportation infrastructure, public transit improvements, and support services for breast cancer patients. It also underscores the importance of raising awareness about available resources and advocating for policies that promote healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Archbald, the Breast Cancer Score should be a factor in their decision-making process. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, the availability and accessibility of healthcare are crucial considerations, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking a community with robust medical support.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Archbald, PA (ZIP Code 18403) is a valuable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. By considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and support services, the score provides a comprehensive view of the transportation landscape for breast cancer patients. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible and equitable healthcare and the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents of Archbald.