18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18456, Prompton, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 18456 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 4.49 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Prompton, PA (ZIP Code 18456)

Prompton, Pennsylvania, a haven nestled in the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, the serenity of this community hinges on a crucial factor: **healthcare access**. This analysis, focusing on breast cancer care, evaluates the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP code 18456, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all critical elements for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer care. It considers the realities of **transportation** limitations, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue, nausea, or mobility issues. The score reflects the availability and accessibility of services, recognizing that timely and convenient access to care is paramount for positive outcomes.

For residents of Prompton, the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The major thoroughfare connecting Prompton to surrounding areas is Route 6, a vital artery for travel east and west. Driving east on Route 6 leads to Honesdale, the county seat, where Wayne Memorial Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The drive from Prompton to Wayne Memorial Hospital typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, a relatively manageable timeframe.

However, the journey can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make Route 6 treacherous, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents. This highlights a vulnerability in the **transportation** infrastructure, especially for patients needing regular appointments.

Traveling west on Route 6 provides access to Scranton, a larger city with a wider array of specialized cancer centers. This journey, however, is considerably longer, taking approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. The Scranton area boasts several hospitals with advanced cancer treatment facilities, including Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute and Moses Taylor Hospital. While the expanded options are beneficial, the increased travel time presents a significant challenge for patients requiring frequent treatments or follow-up appointments.

Alternative routes exist, such as Route 590, which offers a more direct path to Honesdale from the southern parts of Prompton. However, this road is often narrower and winding, potentially less desirable for those with compromised mobility or driving in adverse weather. Route 171 provides another option, offering access to Honesdale and the surrounding areas.

Public **transportation** options in Prompton are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This is a critical consideration for the "Breast Cancer Score."

The Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA) provides some public transit services within the county, but its routes and schedules are limited. The WCTA may offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking, for medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving. The WCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for patients with disabilities or mobility impairments.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** necessitates reliance on other modes of **transportation**, such as ride-sharing services. Uber and Lyft operate in the Scranton area, but their availability in Prompton is less consistent, and wait times can be longer. This is especially problematic for patients needing immediate transport or who live in more remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden, particularly for those undergoing lengthy treatment regimens.

Medical **transportation** services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available but require pre-booking and may have limited availability. These services are designed to assist patients with medical appointments, but the scheduling process can be complex, and the services may not be readily available for urgent needs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, which can help patients navigate the healthcare system and cope with the emotional and practical challenges of treatment. Wayne Memorial Hospital offers a range of support services, including patient navigation, counseling, and support groups. Access to these services is crucial for comprehensive care, and their proximity to Prompton is a positive factor.

For individuals considering **moving to Prompton**, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into the realities of **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized cancer centers are significant considerations.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Prompton, PA (18456) is moderate. While Wayne Memorial Hospital offers convenient access to essential services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** create challenges. The longer travel times to Scranton and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate **healthcare access**. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost can be prohibitive. The limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles present a barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who have mobility issues.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" would require enhancements to the **transportation** infrastructure. Increased public transit options, including more frequent routes and expanded service areas, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, exploring options for telemedicine consultations and home healthcare services could reduce the need for frequent travel.

In conclusion, while Prompton offers a desirable lifestyle, residents must carefully consider the challenges of **healthcare access**, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** options and support services to ensure that all residents have timely and convenient access to the care they need.