18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.79 percent of residents in 18504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18504)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a life-altering diagnosis like breast cancer, is fraught with anxieties. Beyond the emotional and physical toll, the practicalities of transportation and access to quality medical care can add significant burdens. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape for individuals residing in Scranton, PA, ZIP code 18504, focusing on breast cancer care, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing vital services. This score, though subjective, considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing capabilities, painting a picture of healthcare access for those facing this challenge.

The 18504 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Scranton, is characterized by a mix of residential areas, commercial hubs, and varying levels of accessibility. Understanding the transportation options available is paramount for anyone considering moving to Scranton or seeking care within this area. The score will consider factors like proximity to hospitals, specialized cancer centers, and diagnostic facilities, all crucial elements in a patient's care journey.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the most direct route to healthcare is by personal vehicle. The primary arteries serving 18504 are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south highway, and the smaller, more local roads like Route 6, and Route 307. Driving times, however, are significantly impacted by traffic patterns, especially during peak commuting hours.

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), a prominent healthcare provider, is a critical destination. From various points within 18504, the drive to GCMC can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The route typically involves navigating local streets like Wyoming Avenue and Mulberry Street before connecting to larger roads. During rush hour, expect delays, potentially extending travel times.

Another important destination is the Regional Hospital of Scranton, offering comprehensive cancer care. Driving to this facility often involves using the same local roads, with similar travel time considerations. Access to these facilities is generally straightforward, but the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the potential challenges for those without access to a car.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides public transit within Scranton. The LCTA offers several bus routes that traverse the 18504 ZIP code. While public transit offers a more affordable alternative, it often comes with longer travel times and less direct routes.

Several bus routes, including the 10, 11, and 20, serve areas within 18504, connecting residents to key healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited. Waiting times at bus stops and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time.

The LCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize public transit. This is a critical feature for breast cancer patients who may experience mobility limitations due to treatment or surgery. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of the system remain crucial considerations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation options within Scranton. These services can be particularly valuable for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or find public transit challenging.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Scranton is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in Scranton. These services often provide specialized assistance, such as wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. Some insurance plans may cover medical transportation, making it a more accessible option for some patients.

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

Calculating a definitive "Breast Cancer Score" is complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of individual needs and circumstances. However, we can establish a framework for evaluating healthcare access in 18504, considering the factors discussed above.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The closer a patient lives to a hospital or cancer center, the better.
* **Drive Times:** Shorter drive times, especially during peak hours, are crucial.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of public transit routes are essential.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The ease of access and affordability of ride-sharing services are important.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transportation services are vital for those with specific needs.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each factor can be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, drive times might be weighted more heavily than ride-sharing availability. A scoring system could then be developed, assigning points based on the performance of each factor.

**Example Score:**

* **Drive Times:** 3/5 (based on average travel times to key facilities)
* **Public Transit:** 2/5 (considering route frequency and ADA accessibility)
* **Ride-Sharing:** 4/5 (availability and general cost)
* **Medical Transport:** 3/5 (availability and insurance coverage)

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" would then be calculated by summing the weighted scores for each factor. This score provides a general overview of healthcare access within 18504, highlighting areas of strength and weakness.

**Conclusion: Moving to Scranton and Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 18504, while not a definitive number, offers a valuable framework for understanding healthcare access in Scranton. While the area boasts several healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Relying heavily on personal vehicles can be problematic, especially during peak hours. Public transit, while available, may not always be the most convenient option. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer viable alternatives, but their costs and availability must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Scranton or seeking breast cancer care within 18504, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential. Evaluating the proximity to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, and exploring public transit and ride-sharing options are crucial steps in ensuring accessible and efficient healthcare. Addressing these transportation challenges is critical to improving healthcare access and supporting individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer.