18935, Milford Square, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18935, Milford Square, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.19 percent of residents in 18935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Lukes Quakertown Hospital with a distance of 2.91 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Milford Square (ZIP Code 18935)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Milford Square, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18935), the ease of access to essential services, from mammograms to specialized oncology, becomes a critical factor in their overall well-being. This analysis explores the transportation landscape surrounding breast cancer care within and from this specific ZIP code, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the realities of healthcare access.

Milford Square, a quaint community nestled in Bucks County, presents a unique challenge. Its location, while offering a sense of tranquility, also necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is paramount, underscoring the importance of a well-defined transportation strategy.

The primary mode of transportation for most Milford Square residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars necessitates an examination of drive times to key healthcare facilities. The closest major hospital, St. Luke's Hospital - Quakertown Campus, is a relatively accessible option. Traveling via **Route 663** and **West End Boulevard** typically takes around 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This short commute provides a relatively favorable starting point for the "Breast Cancer Score."

Further afield, the Doylestown Hospital, a more comprehensive facility with a dedicated cancer center, presents a longer drive. The journey, primarily via **Route 309** and **Easton Road**, can take upwards of 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This extended commute time, while still manageable, begins to impact the overall score, particularly for individuals undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations.

For those seeking specialized oncology care, the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia offers a world-class reputation. However, the commute from Milford Square to Fox Chase, traversing **Route 309**, the **Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476)**, and city streets, can easily exceed an hour, even without significant traffic delays. This lengthy travel time, potentially compounded by the physical and emotional toll of treatment, significantly lowers the "Breast Cancer Score."

Public transportation options in and around Milford Square are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The primary bus service in the area is provided by the Bucks County Transport (BCT). However, the routes serving Milford Square are infrequent and may not directly connect to major hospitals or cancer centers.

The BCT Route 130, for example, travels along **Route 663**, offering a potential connection to Quakertown. However, the frequency of service and the need for transfers to reach more specialized facilities like Doylestown Hospital or Fox Chase Cancer Center render it a less-than-ideal option for many breast cancer patients. The lack of ADA-accessible features on all buses further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. This deficiency in public transportation significantly lowers the "Breast Cancer Score," highlighting a critical area for improvement.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary significantly, particularly in suburban and rural areas. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option for individual appointments, the expense can quickly become prohibitive for frequent treatments or consultations. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, also poses a potential concern. This variable accessibility and cost impact the "Breast Cancer Score" negatively.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services in Milford Square and the associated costs must be considered. The reliance on scheduling and the potential for delays can also add to the stress of managing a breast cancer diagnosis. The presence of these services, while positive, doesn’t fully offset the transportation deficits, thus moderately impacting the "Breast Cancer Score."

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Milford Square, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to St. Luke's Hospital - Quakertown Campus provides a relatively favorable starting point. However, the longer commutes to more specialized facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services all contribute to a lower overall score.

The score is further influenced by the specific needs of each individual. Factors such as the stage of cancer, the treatment plan, and any physical limitations significantly impact the importance of transportation accessibility. For a patient undergoing frequent chemotherapy treatments, a reliable and affordable transportation option is crucial. For a patient with mobility issues, the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles becomes paramount.

For someone considering moving to Milford Square, the "Breast Cancer Score" should be a critical consideration, especially for those with a family history of the disease or those already undergoing treatment. Understanding the transportation landscape and the potential challenges of accessing healthcare is essential for making informed decisions.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for Milford Square requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing the frequency and reach of public transportation, particularly with ADA-accessible features, is crucial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for cancer patients could significantly improve access. Promoting and expanding the availability of medical transportation services, and educating residents about these options, are also essential steps.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Milford Square, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the breast cancer care they need. This requires a concerted effort from local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations to address the transportation challenges and create a more supportive environment for those facing this difficult disease. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating progress and identifying areas where improvements are most needed, ensuring that the community provides the best possible support for its residents.