18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18832, Monroeton, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.29 percent of residents in 18832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 18.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 18832 (Monroeton, PA)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate attention and unwavering support. For residents of Monroeton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18832), the reality of accessing this crucial care is inextricably linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation. This "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on commute times, transportation options, and the overall ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Monroeton, or for existing residents seeking to understand their healthcare access.

The primary challenge for Monroeton residents lies in its relative isolation. Nestled in a rural pocket of Bradford County, the town is not directly served by major urban centers boasting comprehensive medical facilities. This geographic reality dictates that transportation becomes the linchpin of healthcare access. The journey to specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, requiring careful consideration of drive times and alternative transit methods.

Driving, of course, is the most common mode of transportation. The primary arteries connecting Monroeton to potential healthcare providers are Pennsylvania Route 220 and U.S. Route 6. Heading south on Route 220, one can reach Williamsport, PA, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive. This city hosts UPMC Williamsport, a regional medical center. Heading west on Route 6 leads to Towanda, PA, a shorter 20-minute drive, home to Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital. This hospital offers some breast cancer services, but more complex cases may necessitate further travel.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact commute times. Snow and ice can transform a relatively short drive into a treacherous and time-consuming ordeal. Furthermore, the availability of parking at these medical facilities must be considered, especially given the physical limitations some patients may experience.

Public transportation options in Monroeton are extremely limited. Bradford County does offer a public transit system, primarily catering to the elderly and disabled. This service, however, is demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. The availability of this service for medical appointments is subject to scheduling constraints and may not always align with the urgency of a breast cancer diagnosis. Furthermore, the system’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access the service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available, though their presence is not guaranteed. Rural areas often experience limited ride-sharing availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, potentially placing a financial burden on patients already facing the expenses associated with cancer treatment.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another avenue. Companies specializing in this service, such as MedTrans or similar regional providers, may be available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, these services typically come with a higher price tag than public transit or ride-sharing.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Monroeton, therefore, hinges on the following considerations: the reliability of personal vehicles, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, the limited public transit options, the potential for ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transport.

The absence of a major cancer center within a reasonable driving distance is a significant drawback. While Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital provides some services, patients may need to travel further for specialized treatments such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures. This necessitates a careful assessment of the potential travel burden and the associated costs.

The physical and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. The added stress of navigating complex transportation logistics can exacerbate this burden. Individuals considering moving to Monroeton should carefully evaluate the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access before making a decision. Existing residents should proactively investigate all available transportation options and establish a plan for accessing medical care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Monroeton, 18832, is not a simple numerical rating. Instead, it is a complex assessment of the interplay between transportation and healthcare access. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in reaching essential medical services, particularly those related to breast cancer care. The goal is to provide a clear and comprehensive understanding of the realities of healthcare access in this rural community.

A high score would indicate easy access to a comprehensive cancer center within a short drive, with reliable public transportation, readily available ride-sharing services, and affordable medical transport options. A low score, conversely, would reflect the challenges of long drive times, limited public transit, unpredictable ride-sharing availability, and the potential financial burden of medical transport.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a call to action. It highlights the need for improved transportation infrastructure, enhanced public transit options, and increased awareness of available resources. For residents of Monroeton, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of health and well-being.