18913, Carversville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18913, Carversville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

16.50 percent of residents in 18913 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Doylestown Hospital with a distance of 6.97 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18913**

The idyllic charm of Carversville, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 18913, paints a picture of rolling hills, historic stone houses, and a tranquil existence. However, the serenity of this Bucks County haven must be considered alongside the practicalities of daily life, particularly when assessing healthcare access, especially for a critical health concern like breast cancer. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape for residents of 18913, evaluating the ease with which they can access essential breast cancer healthcare services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score,' a metric reflecting the accessibility of vital care, considering the unique transportation challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 18913 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, necessitates reliance on cars for nearly all errands, including medical appointments. Drive times, therefore, become a crucial factor in determining the Breast Cancer Score.

The closest hospitals offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in Doylestown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing these facilities typically involves navigating the winding roads of Upper Black Eddy Road, leading to River Road (Route 32), and then connecting to Route 611. During peak commuting hours, traffic congestion on Route 611 can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding another 10-15 minutes to the journey.

Further afield, the larger hospitals in the Philadelphia suburbs, such as those in Langhorne or Newtown, offer additional options. However, these facilities require longer drives, typically 30-45 minutes, often involving travel on Route 202 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276). The Pennsylvania Turnpike, while a faster route, incurs tolls, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a more complex challenge. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides limited bus service in the area. Route 132 offers a connection to Doylestown, but the frequency of service is infrequent, and the routes are not always convenient for medical appointments. The nearest SEPTA Regional Rail station is located in New Hope, approximately a 10-15 minute drive from Carversville. From there, commuters can access the Warminster Line, which provides access to various hospitals and medical facilities in the Philadelphia area.

However, the reliance on multiple modes of transportation – driving to the train station, taking the train, and potentially using another mode of transportation to reach the final destination – significantly increases the overall travel time and the potential for delays. Moreover, the availability of accessible public transit options for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. SEPTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements, but the accessibility of bus stops and train stations in the rural areas surrounding 18913 may vary.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. These services are generally available in the area, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments or long distances. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services may be limited during certain times of the day or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport providers operate in the Bucks County area, including CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). While these services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations, they can also be expensive, and advance booking is often required.

The Breast Cancer Score for 18913 must also consider the availability of local healthcare providers. While the area is primarily rural, there are several primary care physicians and specialists located in Doylestown and surrounding towns. These providers may offer breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms, reducing the need for travel to distant hospitals for initial assessments.

The availability of support services, such as cancer support groups and counseling, is also crucial. These services can provide emotional and practical support for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. The Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia, for example, offers programs and resources for cancer patients and their families. However, accessing these services may require travel to locations outside of 18913, further impacting the Breast Cancer Score.

When evaluating the Breast Cancer Score, the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities, the availability of various transportation options, and the cost of transportation must all be considered. The drive times to hospitals, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the availability of local healthcare providers all contribute to the final score.

The Breast Cancer Score for 18913, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Doylestown offers relatively quick access to hospitals, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport pose challenges. The rural nature of the area and the potential for traffic congestion further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Carversville, or for current residents, understanding these transportation realities is essential. Planning for medical appointments, considering the costs of transportation, and exploring all available options are crucial steps. A high Breast Cancer Score indicates that residents of 18913 have good access to breast cancer healthcare. However, the current score reflects a need for increased public transportation options and affordability. The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their transportation abilities, can access the timely and necessary care they deserve.