18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18444, Moscow, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.23 percent of residents in 18444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 7.19 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moscow, PA (ZIP Code 18444)

The diagnosis of breast cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding immediate attention and specialized care. For residents of Moscow, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18444), the journey to healthcare, specifically for breast cancer treatment and screening, is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This analysis, the “Breast Cancer Score,” examines the accessibility of vital healthcare services, focusing on transportation options and the potential challenges faced by those in need. It's a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Moscow** and seeking to understand their **healthcare access** options.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is timely diagnosis and treatment. This requires easy access to mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The "Breast Cancer Score" evaluates the availability of these services relative to the **transportation** landscape in and around Moscow.

Moscow, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. While the area offers scenic beauty and a close-knit community, navigating the terrain and distance to specialized medical facilities is a significant concern. The availability of reliable **transportation** directly impacts the speed and ease with which individuals can receive care.

**Driving Times: The Road to Recovery**

For many Moscow residents, the primary mode of transport is personal vehicles. The major roadways serving the area are crucial for accessing healthcare. Interstate 380 (I-380) is a vital artery, providing relatively quick access to larger medical centers in Scranton and the surrounding areas. Driving times to these facilities are a key metric in the “Breast Cancer Score.”

To Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, a comprehensive cancer center, the drive time via I-380 can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is generally considered a reasonable commute for routine appointments and treatments. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, travel times can increase, adding stress and potentially delaying care.

Accessing the Wright Center for Community Health, also in Scranton, follows a similar route, often requiring a detour onto local roads like Drinker Street. Drive times are comparable to those for Geisinger, but depend on traffic conditions.

The journey to more specialized facilities, such as those offering advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, might necessitate travel to larger cities like Philadelphia or New York City. This significantly increases travel time, potentially requiring a multi-hour drive.

Local roads, such as PA-690, provide access to smaller medical offices and clinics. While these routes offer a more direct path to some facilities, they are often slower due to lower speed limits and potential congestion.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in Moscow are limited. Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the region, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. While LCTA does offer some routes that extend into Moscow, they are not designed to serve the specific needs of patients with breast cancer.

Bus routes may not directly connect to all medical facilities, requiring transfers and longer travel times. The limited frequency of buses can also pose a challenge, particularly for patients with frequent appointments or those needing urgent care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. LCTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of navigating transfers can still be a concern.

The lack of extensive public transit options presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, low-income residents, and those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Moscow area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, particularly those with ongoing treatment needs.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a crucial lifeline for patients unable to drive or use public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained medical personnel on board.

However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs. Booking in advance is often required, which may not be feasible in emergency situations.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Ambulette Services:** Local providers.
* **First Transit:** A national provider.
* **CareRide:** Provides transportation for medical appointments.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Moving to Moscow**

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Moscow, PA (18444), would consider all these factors. It would weigh the drive times to various medical facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the reliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport.

For individuals **moving to Moscow**, the “Breast Cancer Score” serves as a vital tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care. It allows potential residents to assess the practicality of their healthcare needs and make informed decisions about their **healthcare access** and **transportation** options.

The score would also emphasize the importance of community resources, such as support groups, patient navigation services, and financial assistance programs. These resources can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and overcome barriers to care.

The ultimate goal of the "Breast Cancer Score" is to provide a comprehensive assessment of **healthcare access** in Moscow, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. It highlights the crucial role of **transportation** in ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and support for those facing the challenges of breast cancer. It underscores the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** and **transportation** options, particularly for those most vulnerable.