18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 18619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center Muncy with a distance of 15.47 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hillsgrove (ZIP Code 18619)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands meticulous planning. For residents of Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18619), this planning extends beyond medical appointments, encompassing the complexities of transportation. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of breast cancer care, considering the available transportation options and the challenges they present. It's crucial for anyone considering moving to Hillsgrove, or for current residents seeking to understand their healthcare access landscape.

The primary challenge in Hillsgrove is its rural nature. This impacts healthcare access, making transportation a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Williamsport, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre, necessitating travel. The distance alone presents a hurdle, but the availability and reliability of transportation options further complicate matters.

**Driving the Distance:**

The most common mode of transportation for Hillsgrove residents is personal vehicles. Driving to Williamsport, the closest city with significant medical facilities, involves a journey of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. This route primarily utilizes **U.S. Route 220** and then **Interstate 180**. While generally well-maintained, winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially adding delays and increasing the risk of accidents.

Traveling to Scranton, which offers a wider range of specialized care, requires a drive of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. This route typically involves **U.S. Route 220**, connecting to **Interstate 80**, and then navigating towards Scranton. The longer distance amplifies the impact of weather and traffic.

Wilkes-Barre, another potential destination, is approximately a 1.5-hour drive, often utilizing **U.S. Route 220** to **Interstate 80**, and then onto **Interstate 81**. Again, the distance and potential for traffic congestion, especially around Wilkes-Barre, must be considered.

For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the frequency of appointments makes the reliance on personal vehicles a significant burden. The physical and emotional toll of treatment, combined with the stress of driving, can compromise a patient's well-being. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect this.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Hillsgrove is severely limited. Lycoming County, where Hillsgrove is located, offers a public transit system, but its reach is primarily concentrated in the Williamsport area. Service to Hillsgrove itself is infrequent and may not be a viable option for regular medical appointments.

The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) in Wilkes-Barre and the Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) in Scranton offer more extensive services, but accessing these systems from Hillsgrove is a significant challenge. The lack of direct routes and the need for multiple transfers make public transit a time-consuming and potentially exhausting option.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While both LCTA and LCTS offer ADA-compliant services, the feasibility of utilizing them from Hillsgrove remains questionable due to the aforementioned logistical hurdles. The Breast Cancer Score must reflect the limited utility of public transit for this population.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre areas. However, their availability in Hillsgrove is inconsistent. The rural nature of the area means that wait times can be prolonged, and the cost of rides can be substantial, particularly for longer distances.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **CareRide**, **LogistiCare**, and local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. However, availability and insurance coverage vary, and it's essential to investigate these options thoroughly.

The Breast Cancer Score must acknowledge the potential of ride-sharing and medical transportation, while also recognizing their limitations in terms of cost, reliability, and geographic coverage.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The challenges in transportation directly impact healthcare access for breast cancer patients in Hillsgrove. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care require reliable and convenient transportation. The lack of readily available options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress for patients and their families.

This situation underscores the importance of proactive planning. Individuals considering moving to Hillsgrove must carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of resources. Current residents should explore all available options and advocate for improved healthcare access within the community.

**Improving the Breast Cancer Score:**

Improving the Breast Cancer Score for Hillsgrove requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, potentially through partnerships with neighboring counties, could provide more accessible routes to medical facilities. Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services and promoting the availability of medical transportation options are also crucial.

Community outreach programs that educate residents about available resources and assist with transportation arrangements are vital. Furthermore, healthcare providers should consider offering telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Hillsgrove reflects the significant challenges faced by residents in accessing breast cancer care. The rural location, limited public transit, and inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to timely and convenient healthcare. While driving remains the primary option, the distance to specialized facilities, the potential for weather-related delays, and the physical and emotional toll on patients highlight the need for improved transportation solutions.

By understanding these challenges and proactively seeking solutions, the community can work towards improving the Breast Cancer Score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need. This is not just a matter of logistics; it's a matter of ensuring that individuals facing a life-altering diagnosis can focus on their health and well-being, rather than the complexities of getting there. The journey to recovery should not be made more difficult by the journey to healthcare.