18411, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18411, Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.87 percent of residents in 18411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 4.38 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarks Summit, PA (ZIP Code 18411)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a complex equation. It's not just about the quality of medical professionals but also the accessibility of care. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 18411 (Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania), delves into the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for those facing breast cancer. This is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Clarks Summit, as it paints a picture of the practicalities of receiving care.

Clarks Summit, a charming borough in Lackawanna County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, the reality of healthcare access is often dictated by transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities, from routine mammograms to specialized oncology centers, is a crucial factor in the overall well-being of residents. This analysis considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, to assess the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer care.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Clarks Summit is Interstate 81. This major highway provides a relatively direct route to larger medical centers in Scranton, the county seat, and beyond. Drive times to these facilities, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak commuting hours. The travel time to the Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute in Scranton, a leading cancer care provider, is typically around 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Local roads, such as Route 6 and Route 6 Business, also play a vital role in healthcare access. These roads offer alternative routes and connect Clarks Summit to neighboring towns and medical practices. The speed and efficiency of these routes are dependent on the time of day, with potential delays due to traffic signals and congestion.

Public transportation options in Clarks Summit are limited. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals seeking medical appointments. Bus routes, while available, are not designed specifically for healthcare access, and frequent transfers or lengthy travel times can be a significant barrier for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on LCTA buses is a crucial consideration. All LCTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps or lifts and designated seating areas. However, the availability of accessible routes and the frequency of service can still pose challenges for some individuals.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clarks Summit area. These services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or long-term treatment plans. The availability of ride-sharing services can also fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services are another option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, often cater to individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations. The cost of these services can vary depending on the provider and the level of care required.

The Breast Cancer Score for Clarks Summit, therefore, is a composite of these factors. It considers the drive times to major healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport options. This score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment, recognizing that healthcare access is a multifaceted issue.

For individuals considering moving to Clarks Summit, the Breast Cancer Score can be a valuable tool. It provides a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to manage healthcare needs.

The accessibility of healthcare is not just a matter of convenience; it directly impacts health outcomes. Delays in diagnosis or treatment, due to transportation barriers, can have serious consequences. Therefore, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access.

The score is also a call to action. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options for individuals seeking medical care. This could include expanding public transportation routes, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, or providing financial assistance for medical transportation.

The Breast Cancer Score is not static; it can change over time as transportation infrastructure and services evolve. Regular updates and assessments are essential to ensure that the score remains relevant and reflects the current realities of healthcare access in Clarks Summit. The goal is to empower individuals with the information they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive timely and appropriate care.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Clarks Summit, PA, provides a framework for understanding the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access. It is a valuable resource for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers alike. By acknowledging the challenges and opportunities associated with transportation, we can work towards creating a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all. The goal is to ensure that every individual, regardless of their transportation circumstances, has the opportunity to receive the care they need, when they need it. This is especially important for those battling breast cancer, where timely access to care can make a life-altering difference.