18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 18503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 0.66 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scranton's 18503

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting, and the journey to effective treatment demands more than medical expertise. It necessitates reliable **transportation** and swift **healthcare access**. This write-up, tailored for residents of Scranton's 18503 ZIP code, aims to illuminate the landscape of getting to vital appointments, from initial screenings to ongoing care, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment of the area's accessibility. This information is particularly crucial for those **moving to Scranton**, seeking to understand the practicalities of their new environment.

The 18503 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Scranton, presents a mixed bag of accessibility challenges. The city's hilly terrain, coupled with its evolving infrastructure, influences the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities. This analysis considers various modes of **transportation**, evaluating their efficiency and availability for breast cancer patients.

**Driving the Distance: A Critical Assessment**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. Several hospitals and specialized cancer centers serve the Scranton area. Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), located at 1800 Mulberry Street, is a major healthcare provider. Driving to GCMC from various points within 18503, particularly those located on the outskirts of the ZIP code, can be a test of patience.

From the western edge of 18503, accessing GCMC involves navigating city streets like Pittston Avenue and Mulberry Street, a journey that could take 15-20 minutes during peak traffic. The primary thoroughfare, Interstate 81, offers a faster route, but it is frequently congested, especially during rush hour.

The drive to Regional Hospital of Scranton, another key medical facility, located at 746 Jefferson Avenue, is generally shorter, taking about 10-15 minutes from most parts of 18503. The route involves navigating city streets, with traffic flow varying depending on the time of day. The use of Route 6 or Route 11 can also be used for quicker access.

For those residing in the more remote sections of 18503, the commute to these facilities can be significantly longer, potentially impacting appointment adherence and increasing stress levels. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, further complicates matters.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Blessing**

The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides public **transportation** within Scranton and surrounding areas. While a valuable resource for some, its limitations must be considered. Several bus routes serve the 18503 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 9, which can provide access to medical facilities.

However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This could lead to extended wait times and potential delays, adding to the burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. Furthermore, the hilly terrain of Scranton presents accessibility challenges for those with mobility issues.

The LCTS offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. These buses are essential for ensuring equitable **healthcare access**. However, the availability of these accessible buses on all routes and at all times should be confirmed.

The practicality of relying solely on public transit for frequent medical appointments needs careful evaluation. The travel time, potential for delays, and the need for transfers can be significant drawbacks.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to driving and public transit. Their availability in Scranton is generally good, providing a convenient option for accessing medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and Medical Transport, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

While these services can be invaluable, their availability and cost should be carefully considered. It is essential to research the specific services available in the 18503 area and assess their suitability for individual needs.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 18503 reflects the combined impact of these factors. It is not a single number but a holistic assessment, considering the following:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach major medical facilities by car, factoring in traffic conditions and road quality.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of LCTS services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The ease of securing an Uber or Lyft, and the associated costs.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Proximity to Essential Services:** The distance to pharmacies, imaging centers, and other support services.

**Navigating the Challenges: Practical Recommendations**

For residents of 18503, planning ahead is crucial. Here are some practical recommendations:

* **Assess Personal Needs:** Evaluate individual mobility limitations and **transportation** preferences.
* **Explore All Options:** Research all available **transportation** options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation**.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays.
* **Utilize Support Systems:** Enlist the help of family, friends, or support groups for **transportation** assistance.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Support initiatives to improve public transit and **healthcare access** within the community.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The 18503 ZIP code presents both challenges and opportunities for breast cancer patients. While the area has several **healthcare access** options, the reliance on private vehicles and the limitations of public transit can pose obstacles. By understanding the complexities of **transportation** and proactively planning for appointments, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape with greater ease. This assessment is particularly relevant for those **moving to Scranton**, providing a realistic view of the area's resources. Improving **healthcare access** is an ongoing effort, requiring community collaboration and a commitment to ensuring that all residents have the support they need.