18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 18628 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 26.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lopez, PA (ZIP Code 18628)

The quaint borough of Lopez, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, crafted for prospective and current residents, provides a "Breast Cancer Score" – a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare access within and around ZIP code 18628. Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for individuals considering moving to Lopez or already residing here.

The score considers drive times to relevant medical facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It also touches upon the ADA accessibility of public transit, recognizing the importance of inclusive transportation for all. This information will empower individuals to navigate the healthcare landscape with greater confidence and clarity.

Lopez, with its rural character, necessitates a deep dive into transportation realities. The primary artery connecting Lopez to larger towns and healthcare centers is Pennsylvania Route 487. This winding two-lane road, while scenic, dictates much of the commute time. Heading south on Route 487, the drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering roughly 70 miles. This drive, while manageable, can be challenging during inclement weather, impacting healthcare access.

Northbound on Route 487 leads to Dushore and Towanda, offering closer, albeit smaller, medical facilities. The drive to Towanda, home to Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital, is about 45 minutes. The shorter distance offers a more accessible option for routine check-ups and initial screenings. However, for specialized breast cancer care, including oncology and surgical services, the longer drive to Danville or the larger hospitals in Scranton may be necessary.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. Sullivan County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The lack of public transportation necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or, in some cases, family and friends for healthcare appointments. This presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a car, particularly those requiring frequent treatments or follow-up appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in the more remote areas surrounding Lopez. Relying on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is therefore unreliable.

Medical transport services are a crucial component of the healthcare access equation. Several companies operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals needing assistance. These services typically require advance booking and may involve fees. However, they provide a vital lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other transportation methods.

The Breast Cancer Score for Lopez, PA, reflects the interplay of these transportation and healthcare access factors. The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment influenced by individual circumstances, including mobility, financial resources, and healthcare needs.

For individuals with access to a personal vehicle and the financial means to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport, the score is moderately positive. The drive times to larger healthcare facilities are manageable, and alternative transportation options exist, albeit with limitations. However, for individuals without these resources, the score is significantly lower. The absence of reliable public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing create considerable barriers to healthcare access.

The availability of early detection and treatment services within a reasonable distance is a critical factor. While routine mammograms and screenings can be accessed at facilities in Towanda, more specialized care often necessitates travel to Danville or Scranton. This travel time impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment, potentially affecting patient outcomes.

The ADA accessibility of any available transportation is another crucial consideration. Individuals with disabilities require accessible transportation options to ensure equal access to healthcare. The absence of a public transit system with ADA-compliant features further limits healthcare access for this population in Lopez.

Moving to Lopez requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of breast cancer or at increased risk, should thoroughly research healthcare facilities and transportation options before relocating. This proactive approach ensures that individuals are prepared to navigate the healthcare landscape and receive timely and appropriate care.

The Breast Cancer Score also emphasizes the importance of community resources. Local support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and community health initiatives can provide invaluable assistance. These resources can offer transportation assistance, financial aid, and emotional support, mitigating the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting.

The future of healthcare access in Lopez may involve technological advancements. Telemedicine, for instance, offers the potential to connect patients with specialists remotely, reducing the need for extensive travel. However, the success of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet access, which is another factor to consider in this rural area.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Lopez, PA, reflects a complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and community resources. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in public transportation and the distance to specialized medical facilities present challenges. Individuals considering moving to Lopez or already residing there should proactively assess their healthcare needs, explore available transportation options, and connect with community resources to ensure they can access the care they require. The score serves as a guide, empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare landscape with greater awareness and to advocate for improved healthcare access within their community.