18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.42 percent of residents in 18509 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 1.05 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scranton's 18509**

The journey to quality breast cancer care in Scranton, Pennsylvania's 18509 ZIP code, demands more than just a diagnosis. It necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options, a crucial element in healthcare access, especially for those facing the emotional and physical challenges of treatment. This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score,' a composite assessment of commute times, public transit accessibility, and ride-sharing availability, offering a practical guide for residents and those considering moving to Scranton.

The 18509 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Scranton, presents a mixed landscape for transportation. While the city boasts a relatively compact layout, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. This means that the ease with which one can access healthcare facilities is often tied directly to the availability and reliability of a car.

**Driving Distances and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

For those who drive, the primary routes to breast cancer care centers are relatively straightforward. The most direct path to many medical facilities, including Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital, often involves navigating the city’s core. From the heart of 18509, a drive to these hospitals typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Key roadways, such as the Scranton Expressway (Interstate 81) and the North Scranton Expressway (U.S. Route 6), are vital arteries for accessing healthcare. The Scranton Expressway provides swift access to facilities located further afield, while U.S. Route 6 connects to hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas. Local roads like Wyoming Avenue, Penn Avenue, and Cedar Avenue serve as crucial connectors, allowing residents to reach their appointments with relative ease.

However, the presence of traffic, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Rush hour congestion on the Scranton Expressway and U.S. Route 6 can extend travel times, potentially adding stress and anxiety for patients. Therefore, careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns are essential for those relying on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Important Option**

Public transportation in Scranton, primarily provided by the Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA), offers an alternative, albeit limited, means of accessing healthcare. The LCTA operates a network of bus routes that serve the 18509 ZIP code. Several routes, including the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 10, provide connections to hospitals and medical centers.

However, the frequency of service and the coverage area of these routes can be a challenge. Many routes operate on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings, which can restrict access for patients needing appointments outside of standard business hours. Additionally, the network's reach may not extend to all areas within the 18509 ZIP code, requiring some residents to walk a considerable distance to a bus stop.

The LCTA is committed to providing accessible transportation. All buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliance on transfers and the potential for longer travel times can still pose challenges for those undergoing breast cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue or mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Scranton and offer a convenient option for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on family and friends. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand in the area. Patients should plan and book their rides in advance, especially for appointments during peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by CareRide and Senior Transportation, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from their appointments. They offer a more personalized and supportive experience, with trained drivers who can assist with wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 18509 is a nuanced assessment. While the proximity of healthcare facilities offers a favorable starting point, the score is tempered by the limitations of public transportation and the potential for traffic congestion. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides valuable alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

The score is further influenced by individual circumstances. For those with a personal vehicle and the ability to drive, access to healthcare is generally straightforward. For those relying on public transit, careful planning and consideration of route schedules are essential. For those with mobility limitations or without access to transportation, ride-sharing and medical transportation services become critical, albeit potentially costly, components of healthcare access.

**Moving to Scranton: Considering Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Scranton, the availability of healthcare access should be a significant factor. The 18509 ZIP code offers a mix of convenience and challenges. The proximity of hospitals and clinics is a definite advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit must be carefully considered.

Prospective residents should research the specific transportation options available in their desired location within the 18509 ZIP code. They should assess their own transportation needs and preferences, considering factors such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the availability of support networks.

Ultimately, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for 18509 reflects the complex interplay of transportation options, healthcare infrastructure, and individual circumstances. By understanding these factors, residents and prospective newcomers can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and navigate the journey to treatment with greater confidence and ease. The availability of transportation is a critical element in healthcare access, and in a city like Scranton, the ability to navigate the roads and public transit systems is essential for those seeking care.