18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.02 percent of residents in 18614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 27.73 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dushore, PA (ZIP Code 18614)

The bucolic charm of Dushore, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, often masks the complex realities of healthcare access. For residents, especially those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the journey to quality care extends far beyond the idyllic landscapes. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 18614, offering insights into the practical challenges and potential solutions for navigating the healthcare system. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements impacting healthcare access for anyone moving to Dushore.

The primary challenge in 18614 lies in its rural character. Dushore is a small town, and while the community is close-knit, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located a significant distance away. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, prioritizes understanding the transportation infrastructure and its impact on patients seeking diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This analysis considers the time and effort required to reach essential healthcare services, directly influencing the overall quality of life for individuals battling breast cancer.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Dushore. The primary arteries connecting the area to larger medical centers are Pennsylvania Route 220 and Pennsylvania Route 87. These roads, while scenic, can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during the winter months. The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer care, typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering approximately 80 miles. This journey necessitates navigating a combination of two-lane highways and potentially congested areas as you approach Danville.

Another critical destination is Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, approximately 60 miles away, reachable via Route 220 and Route 6. The drive time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but this can fluctuate due to traffic and road conditions. The trip to Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, a bit further afield, would require a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, utilizing Route 220 and Interstate 80. These extended drive times can be particularly taxing for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent trips for appointments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in 18614. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. There is no readily available public bus service within the immediate vicinity of Dushore. This absence underscores the critical importance of alternative transportation solutions for individuals managing breast cancer.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Dushore. The sparse population density and geographic isolation make it difficult for these services to maintain a reliable presence. While a ride might be available, relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is generally not feasible. This further highlights the need for alternative solutions, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for patients in rural areas. Several specialized companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, but they provide a vital link to healthcare facilities. Companies like Medical Transportation Services of PA and First Transit are among those that may service the area. Availability and cost vary, and it's essential to research and book these services well in advance of appointments.

The Breast Cancer Score for Dushore, PA, reflects the challenges of healthcare access inherent in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant obstacles for patients. The long drive times to major medical centers, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, can exacerbate the stress and burden associated with a breast cancer diagnosis.

For those considering moving to Dushore, the Breast Cancer Score serves as a crucial assessment tool. It underscores the importance of factoring in transportation logistics when making healthcare decisions. Potential residents should carefully consider their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of utilizing medical transportation services.

The community's efforts to improve healthcare access are vital. This could involve advocating for expanded medical transportation options, exploring partnerships with regional healthcare providers to establish satellite clinics or mobile healthcare units, and promoting volunteer driver programs. These initiatives can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score and enhance the quality of life for residents battling breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to providing accessible healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have equitable access to the care they need. The journey to recovery from breast cancer is arduous enough; the community must strive to make the journey to healthcare as manageable as possible.