18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.05 percent of residents in 18704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is more than just a physical trek. It’s a multifaceted experience intertwined with emotional strain, financial considerations, and the practicalities of **transportation**. For residents of Kingston, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18704), understanding the landscape of **healthcare access** is crucial, especially when considering the challenges and triumphs of **moving to Kingston**. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" if you will, assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare within and around this ZIP code, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on patient experience.

Kingston, nestled within the Wyoming Valley, presents a unique geographical challenge. While geographically compact, the surrounding terrain and limited public transit options can complicate access to specialized medical care. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 18704 is the automobile. The primary arteries for accessing medical facilities are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, **Route 11**, and **Route 309**. Accessing these highways is relatively straightforward from most areas within Kingston. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For instance, driving to the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes 10-15 minutes via **Route 11** or **I-81**, assuming minimal traffic. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, adding significant stress and potential delays for appointments, treatments, or emergencies. Similarly, accessing the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, located in Wilkes-Barre, involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes via **Route 11** or **Route 309**, again subject to traffic fluctuations.

Specialized breast cancer centers, often located within larger hospitals or as standalone facilities, are crucial. The drive times to these centers are critical, as timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and support services is paramount. Evaluating drive times to these centers, considering traffic patterns, is a vital component of the "Breast Cancer Score."

Public transportation, while present, presents limitations. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) operates bus routes throughout the Wyoming Valley. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be limited. Furthermore, the routes often lack direct connections to major medical facilities, necessitating transfers and extending travel times.

The LCTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the inherent challenges of public transit, such as waiting times, potential delays, and the need for multiple transfers, can be particularly daunting for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, who may be experiencing fatigue, nausea, or other side effects. Detailed route information, including bus numbers serving medical facilities, and the availability of ADA features, is essential when evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs.

The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, particularly for regular appointments and treatments. The ease of scheduling rides, the average wait times, and the overall cost compared to other **transportation** options are crucial factors in assessing healthcare accessibility.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Several medical transport brands operate within the region, each with its own pricing structure, service area, and level of care.

Evaluating the availability, cost, and quality of these services is a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score." The ability to secure reliable and affordable medical transport can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize other **transportation** options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the proximity of pharmacies and other support services, as these are integral to the overall healthcare experience. The availability of pharmacies near medical facilities, the ease of accessing prescriptions, and the availability of support groups and counseling services are all factors that contribute to the overall accessibility of breast cancer care.

The psychological and emotional aspects of breast cancer are significant. The proximity of support groups, counseling services, and other resources can greatly improve the patient experience. The "Breast Cancer Score" incorporates an assessment of these resources, considering their accessibility via various **transportation** methods.

For individuals **moving to Kingston**, understanding the healthcare **transportation** landscape is paramount. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within the ZIP code. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the available **transportation** options, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The ideal scenario involves a seamless integration of various **transportation** options, ensuring that individuals can access the care they need, when they need it. This includes reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing services, and accessible medical transport options. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the current state of healthcare access in Kingston, PA (18704) and identifying areas for improvement. The goal is to create a healthcare environment where individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer can navigate the journey with dignity, ease, and access to the best possible care.