18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18414, Dalton, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.62 percent of residents in 18414 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 7.35 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dalton, PA (ZIP Code 18414)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It involves more than just medical expertise; it encompasses the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This analysis offers a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Dalton, PA (ZIP Code 18414), considering the unique challenges and opportunities presented by its location. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture for those seeking care or *moving to Dalton*.

Dalton, nestled in Lackawanna County, presents a mix of rural charm and suburban convenience. Its proximity to Scranton, the county seat, offers access to a broader range of medical facilities. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of specialized transport services significantly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most common mode of *transportation* in Dalton is the personal vehicle. Accessing breast cancer-related healthcare often hinges on navigating the local road network. The primary routes to consider are Interstate 81 (I-81), the major north-south artery, and US Route 6 (US-6), which provides east-west connectivity.

For residents of Dalton, the drive to Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton, a primary healthcare provider, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive utilizes both I-81 and local roads like PA-307. The route is generally straightforward, but rush hour can significantly extend travel times.

The drive to the Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, another significant healthcare provider, follows a similar route, often taking 20-30 minutes. Again, traffic on I-81 and the local roads is a major factor.

For specialized breast cancer care, such as at the Wright Center for Community Health, the drive time is usually within the 20-30-minute range. The Wright Center is located in Scranton, and the route involves a mix of I-81 and local roads.

**Public Transit: A Limited Compass**

Public *transportation* options in Dalton are limited. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes are not extensive. Route 17, for example, offers service between Scranton and Clarks Summit, passing through Dalton. However, frequency is limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

For individuals needing to access breast cancer care, the LCTA's limitations are significant. The lack of direct routes to major medical facilities, coupled with infrequent service, makes it a less-than-ideal option for many.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. The LCTA offers accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service. However, the limited route network and the need for transfers can still pose difficulties.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Scranton area, including Dalton. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical *transportation* services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and Liberty Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, including transport to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The cost of medical *transportation* is a crucial consideration. While some insurance plans cover these services, others may not. It's essential to investigate insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options if needed.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Dalton, PA (ZIP Code 18414) is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The score considers drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost and accessibility of medical *transportation* services.

Dalton's score is moderately impacted by its reliance on personal vehicles. While drive times to major medical facilities are generally reasonable, traffic congestion and the need to navigate multiple roads can add to the stress of healthcare journeys.

The limited public transit options negatively impact the score. The infrequent service and the lack of direct routes to medical facilities pose significant challenges for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* partially offsets these limitations. However, the cost of these services and the potential for limited availability during certain times of the day can still pose a barrier.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Several initiatives could improve the Breast Cancer Score for Dalton residents. Expanding the LCTA's route network and increasing service frequency would enhance *healthcare access* for those reliant on public transit.

Promoting awareness of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services, along with financial assistance programs, could help mitigate the cost burden.

Supporting initiatives that encourage carpooling and shared *transportation* among patients could also ease the burden.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For those considering *moving to Dalton* or seeking breast cancer care, understanding the *transportation* landscape is critical. While Dalton offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* are important considerations.

By carefully assessing the available options and proactively planning for *transportation* needs, residents of Dalton can navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and peace of mind. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by Dalton's unique location, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. This is especially important for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, where timely and reliable access to care is paramount.