18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.13 percent of residents in 18439 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 13.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, necessitates more than just medical expertise. It demands accessible, reliable, and efficient transportation. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape for individuals residing in Lakewood, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18439), assessing its impact on healthcare access for those facing breast cancer. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive “Breast Cancer Score” for this specific geographic area. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lakewood or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

Lakewood, nestled within the Pocono Mountains, presents unique transportation challenges. The area's rural character often translates to limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. The ability to navigate these complexities directly affects the quality of life for breast cancer patients, impacting their ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and access vital support services. The “Breast Cancer Score” considers these factors to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Map**

For many Lakewood residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to various healthcare facilities are critical. Scranton, a regional hub for medical services, is a significant destination.

The most direct route to Scranton from Lakewood typically involves traveling on **PA-191 South** and then merging onto **I-84 West**. This journey, depending on traffic, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covering roughly 35 miles. The **I-84** corridor is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

Alternatively, one could utilize **PA-507 South** to connect with **I-380 West**, which then merges with **I-84 West**. This route, while potentially avoiding some of the more mountainous sections of **PA-191**, may add to the overall travel time, especially during peak hours.

Healthcare facilities within the immediate vicinity of Lakewood, such as local clinics and smaller practices, may offer shorter drive times. However, for specialized oncology services, surgical interventions, and comprehensive cancer care, the larger medical centers in Scranton are often the destination. The time spent in transit directly impacts a patient’s energy levels, particularly during treatment cycles.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in the Lakewood area is limited. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This deficiency is a major factor influencing the “Breast Cancer Score.”

The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service in the Scranton area, but it does not extend into Lakewood. Even if a resident could reach Scranton, the LCTA routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. Furthermore, the frequency of bus service, especially on weekends and evenings, can be restrictive.

While some LCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, the limited routes and schedules pose challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or require frequent restroom breaks. The absence of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Scranton area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of drivers in Lakewood, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, making it a financial burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide another option. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Brands like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) operate in the region.

The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the insurance coverage. Many insurance plans cover medical transportation, but patients should verify their coverage and understand any associated co-pays or deductibles. The reliability and affordability of these services are crucial components of the "Breast Cancer Score."

**The “Breast Cancer Score” for Lakewood (18439)**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Lakewood (18439) reflects the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The relatively long drive times to major medical centers in Scranton (45 minutes to an hour) present a significant challenge.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options severely restrict access for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services add to the complexity.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable, albeit potentially costly, alternative.

**Overall Assessment:**

Lakewood's "Breast Cancer Score" is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the transportation limitations significantly impact accessibility. The reliance on personal vehicles and the absence of robust public transit create barriers, particularly for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but the cost and reliability of these options must be carefully considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Community efforts to expand public transit options, even if limited, could significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Explore Carpooling and Volunteer Driver Programs:** Organizing carpools or establishing volunteer driver programs could provide cost-effective transportation alternatives.
* **Investigate Medical Transport Options:** Patients should thoroughly research and understand their insurance coverage for medical transportation.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When making decisions about moving to Lakewood, individuals should carefully weigh the transportation challenges and the potential need for frequent medical appointments.

The “Breast Cancer Score” serves as a reminder that healthcare access extends beyond medical expertise. It encompasses the ability to reach healthcare facilities, a factor profoundly influenced by transportation options. For individuals considering moving to Lakewood or for current residents navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding these transportation complexities is essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and quality of life.