18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 18424 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 13.98 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gouldsboro, PA (ZIP Code 18424)**

Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, when considering a move, particularly for individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 18424, evaluating transportation options to essential medical facilities. It's a critical factor impacting healthcare access, a consideration for anyone moving to Gouldsboro.

The score is not a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of available transportation options. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This will help inform your decisions regarding healthcare access and the feasibility of treatment within a reasonable distance.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Gouldsboro's location presents both advantages and challenges. The primary routes influencing healthcare access are Interstate 380 (I-380) and Interstate 84 (I-84). These highways are crucial for reaching major medical centers. Secondary roads, like PA-507, PA-307, and PA-611, provide access to local facilities and connect to the interstates.

Drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather, and time of day. During peak hours, congestion on I-380 can add considerable time to your commute. For instance, reaching Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, a major regional hospital, typically takes around 30-45 minutes under normal conditions. However, during rush hour, this could easily extend to an hour or more.

Similarly, accessing hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre area, such as Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, involves navigating I-80 and I-81. This drive usually takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic flow. The ease of transportation is a key element of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Gouldsboro is limited. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) does not directly serve Gouldsboro. Residents rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transport. This scarcity poses a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive.

The absence of robust public transit highlights the importance of considering alternative transportation methods. The lack of public transportation options directly impacts healthcare access, especially for those undergoing regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. ADA-compliant features are a non-issue due to the lack of service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Gouldsboro area. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is risky, especially given the potential for delays or cancellations.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Care Ride and Medical Transportation Services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. While these services are available, they can be costly and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility**

Several healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance of Gouldsboro. Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital's proximity is a significant advantage for residents.

Other options include hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre area, which provide similar services. However, the longer drive times to these facilities may present challenges. Access to specialized cancer centers, such as those affiliated with larger university hospitals, might require a longer commute.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Considerations**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Gouldsboro reflects the balance of available transportation options and healthcare facilities. The area benefits from proximity to major hospitals, but the lack of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services are significant drawbacks.

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Access to major hospitals is generally feasible within an hour, but traffic can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Poor. Limited to no public transportation options exist.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Availability is variable, and reliance on these services can be risky.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Services exist but are costly and require advance planning.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering a Move**

For individuals with breast cancer or those at high risk, carefully consider the following:

* **Personal Vehicle:** Having a reliable vehicle is essential.
* **Transportation Assistance:** Identify potential sources of support, such as family, friends, or volunteer organizations.
* **Medical Transport:** Research and establish relationships with medical transport providers.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Plan appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns and transportation limitations.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Assess the proximity of your home to healthcare facilities and plan accordingly.

**Conclusion**

Moving to Gouldsboro offers a peaceful lifestyle, but healthcare access requires careful planning. While the area benefits from proximity to major hospitals, the limited transportation options necessitate a proactive approach. Understanding the "Breast Cancer Score" helps individuals make informed decisions, ensuring they can access the care they need. The success of healthcare access in Gouldsboro depends on individual planning, and an understanding of the available transportation options.