18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.63 percent of residents in 18462 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 11.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Starrucca, PA (ZIP Code 18462)

The serene beauty of Starrucca, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of the Endless Mountains, offers a tranquil escape. However, for residents facing the complexities of breast cancer, accessing timely and comprehensive healthcare presents a significant challenge. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, delves into the critical factors impacting healthcare access within ZIP code 18462, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized medical services. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Starrucca or currently residing there, particularly those navigating the journey of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on the ability to reach medical facilities. In a rural area like Starrucca, transportation becomes the cornerstone of care. The absence of readily available public transportation, coupled with limited ride-sharing options, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles. Understanding drive times, the condition of the roads, and the availability of alternative transportation is paramount for patients and their families.

The primary routes connecting Starrucca to healthcare hubs involve navigating the scenic but sometimes winding roads of the region. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves utilizing Pennsylvania Route 171, a crucial artery for travel. Driving south on Route 171, one can connect with Interstate 81, the major north-south highway in the region. This route provides access to Scranton, a city offering a range of healthcare services, including those specializing in breast cancer care.

Drive times, however, are a significant consideration. A drive to Scranton, approximately 50 miles south, can take anywhere from one hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The potential for inclement weather, common in the region, further complicates travel, adding to the stress and anxiety already associated with a cancer diagnosis.

Beyond Scranton, the city of Binghamton, New York, located to the northwest, offers another potential destination for healthcare services. The drive to Binghamton, utilizing Route 171 and connecting highways, is roughly 40 miles and takes approximately an hour. This route presents a viable alternative, offering access to different specialists and treatment options.

Public transportation options within ZIP code 18462 are severely limited. There are no established bus routes directly serving Starrucca. The lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals who do not drive, the elderly, and those with mobility limitations. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability can be sporadic, particularly in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive. Booking in advance is crucial, and even then, there's no guarantee of availability.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are a potential solution. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, such as LogistiCare or Medical Transportation Management (MTM), may serve the area. These services often require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements. Researching the availability and coverage of these services within the patient's insurance plan is essential.

Healthcare access is about more than just physical transportation. It also involves understanding the availability of breast cancer specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers. In the vicinity of Starrucca, the closest facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Scranton and Binghamton. These facilities provide a range of services, including mammography, biopsies, surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy), radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

The quality of healthcare access also encompasses the availability of support services. Cancer support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs can significantly ease the burden of a cancer diagnosis. Investigating the availability of these resources in the Scranton and Binghamton areas is essential for patients and their families.

For individuals considering moving to Starrucca, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful consideration of healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of transportation and limited healthcare options require proactive planning. Prospective residents should research the availability of medical transportation services, assess their ability to drive or rely on family and friends for transportation, and investigate the proximity of healthcare facilities.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just about assessing the negatives. It is about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It is about understanding the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting and proactively seeking solutions.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough. By understanding the transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare resources, residents of Starrucca can navigate the complexities of care with greater confidence. This assessment emphasizes the need for community support, advocacy for improved transportation options, and the importance of proactive healthcare planning for anyone considering moving to this beautiful but geographically isolated region.