18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.30 percent of residents in 18706 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 3.78 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18706

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not merely about the medical expertise available; it’s about the accessibility of that expertise. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 18706 (Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania), evaluating how easily residents can access essential breast cancer services, from screening to treatment. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Wilkes-Barre and needing a clear picture of healthcare access.

Transportation, the vital artery connecting patients to care, is the central focus. The ease or difficulty of travel significantly impacts the patient experience, influencing everything from appointment adherence to overall well-being. This analysis will delve into the various modes of transportation available, assessing their strengths and weaknesses in the context of breast cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. In 18706, the major thoroughfares are crucial. Interstate 81 (I-81), a north-south artery, provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers outside of Wilkes-Barre, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can be a significant factor. The drive time to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major healthcare provider, is generally under 15 minutes, depending on traffic on South Wilkes-Barre Boulevard and Highland Park Boulevard.

Route 309, another major road, offers an alternative route, albeit often with slower speeds and more traffic lights. Route 11, running parallel to the Susquehanna River, provides access to various clinics and medical offices within Wilkes-Barre, but can be prone to congestion, especially near the downtown area. The ability to navigate these roads efficiently is critical, especially for those undergoing treatment, which often involves frequent appointments.

The drive times, of course, are not static. They vary based on the time of day, weather conditions, and even the day of the week. The convenience of personal vehicle transportation must be balanced against the potential for delays and the financial burden of fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its limitations in 18706 are notable. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but the network is not extensive, and routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. The frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating significant challenges for patients needing timely access to appointments.

Several LCTA routes, including the 9, 17, and 20, do offer service within the 18706 ZIP code. However, the routes may not always connect directly to specific medical facilities, necessitating transfers. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the overall reliance on public transit for breast cancer care in this area is not optimal.

The lack of a robust public transportation system necessitates careful planning for those who rely on it. It can add significant time and stress to the already challenging experience of navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. Their availability in Wilkes-Barre is generally good, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The reliability of these services, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often covered by insurance. These services typically offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients are picked up and dropped off directly at their appointments.

The availability of these services, however, varies depending on insurance coverage and eligibility. Furthermore, scheduling these services requires advance planning, which may not always align with the immediate needs of a patient.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't just about drive times and bus routes. It's about the overall accessibility of breast cancer services within the 18706 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The availability of screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services are all crucial.

The presence of a comprehensive breast cancer center, such as the one at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is a significant asset. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to provide coordinated care. However, even with such a center, the challenges of transportation remain.

The distance to specialized care, the availability of transportation options, and the overall cost of accessing healthcare all contribute to the "Breast Cancer Score." This score is a dynamic measure, influenced by improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit, and the availability of affordable ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Moving to Wilkes-Barre: Considering Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Wilkes-Barre, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk, healthcare access is a critical consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs, considering their ability to drive, their reliance on public transit, and their access to ride-sharing or medical transportation services. They should also research the availability of breast cancer services in the area, including the proximity of medical facilities and the range of services offered.

The goal is to ensure that any move to Wilkes-Barre is not only a positive lifestyle choice but also a practical one, providing access to the healthcare services needed to support their health and well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a tool to help make informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling life in this community.