18469, Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18469, Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.54 percent of residents in 18469 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.05 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tyler Hill (ZIP Code 18469)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a condition as demanding as breast cancer, is a critical component of a patient's overall well-being. In the serene, rural landscape of Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18469), the availability and accessibility of breast cancer services significantly impact the quality of life for residents. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access within and around this community. Considering the factors of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals navigating the healthcare system in Tyler Hill.

The primary consideration for residents of Tyler Hill, when seeking breast cancer care, is the distance to specialized facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, approximately 40 miles away. The drive, though scenic, is often the first hurdle.

The most direct route to Scranton involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 6** eastward, followed by **Interstate 81** north. Under ideal traffic conditions, the drive can take approximately one hour. However, this timeframe is subject to significant variation. Rush hour congestion, particularly on **Interstate 81**, can extend the commute considerably. Inclement weather, common in the region, can further exacerbate travel times, potentially doubling or even tripling the duration of the journey. This dependence on personal vehicle transportation is a significant challenge for those without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides some bus services, but these are primarily focused on serving the Scranton area. There is no direct bus route from Tyler Hill to Scranton. Therefore, relying on public transit for accessing breast cancer care is, for all practical purposes, not a viable option. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot afford the cost of private transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area. However, their presence in Tyler Hill is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride-share to and from medical appointments requires careful planning and can be costly. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services further adds to the stress and logistical challenges faced by patients. This is an important consideration for anyone moving to Tyler Hill, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with their healthcare travel. Several companies operate in the Scranton area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve a scheduled pick-up and drop-off, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be a valuable resource, they come with associated costs, and advance booking is often required. Furthermore, the availability of medical transportation can be limited, especially during peak demand periods.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Tyler Hill, therefore, reflects the challenges posed by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment.

The implications of these transportation limitations are far-reaching. They can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to crucial treatments. The stress of navigating complex transportation logistics can negatively impact patients' mental and emotional well-being, further hindering their ability to cope with the demands of their illness.

For individuals considering moving to Tyler Hill, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. This might involve evaluating the feasibility of car ownership, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, or investigating the potential for utilizing medical transportation.

Furthermore, individuals with a history of breast cancer, or a family history of the disease, should proactively research the healthcare facilities in the Scranton area. Understanding the services offered, the insurance accepted, and the availability of support groups is crucial.

The community of Tyler Hill could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access. This might include advocating for expanded public transportation options, supporting the development of a local carpool program, or partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted transportation for medical appointments.

The implementation of such initiatives would not only improve the "Breast Cancer Score" but would also enhance the overall quality of life for all residents. Increased access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring that residents of Tyler Hill have the resources they need to access timely and effective breast cancer care is a critical community responsibility.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Tyler Hill underscores the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful, rural setting, the limited transportation options present significant challenges for individuals seeking breast cancer care. Addressing these challenges through community initiatives and individual planning is essential to ensure that all residents have equal access to the healthcare services they need. The journey to recovery should not be further burdened by the difficulties of transportation; a comprehensive approach to healthcare access is paramount for the well-being of the community.