19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.91 percent of residents in 19021 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lower Bucks Hospital with a distance of 2.04 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in 19021 (Croydon, PA)

The very air in Croydon, Pennsylvania, hums with a quiet resilience. Nestled along the Delaware River, this Bucks County community, ZIP code 19021, is home to families, businesses, and a shared history. But for those navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, the seemingly simple act of accessing healthcare can become a significant hurdle. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for 19021, examines the critical component of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Croydon.

A cancer diagnosis demands immediate and consistent care. Treatment schedules are rigid, often involving frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits. These appointments, coupled with the physical and emotional toll of the disease, underscore the vital importance of accessible and reliable transportation. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to assess the ease with which residents of 19021 can reach essential healthcare facilities.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Croydon are the major roadways. The **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**, a toll road, offers a relatively swift route to hospitals in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. However, the cost of tolls and potential traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can add to the financial and emotional burden. The **U.S. Route 13 (Bristol Pike)**, a heavily trafficked road, provides a more direct, albeit slower, route to local medical centers. **State Route 413 (Pine Street)** and **State Route 513 (Bristol-Oxford Valley Road)** offer alternative, though often less direct, routes, navigating the local grid. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, also presents challenges for individuals who may be unable to drive due to their treatment or physical limitations.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents a mixed bag of accessibility. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service in the area. Several bus routes, including the **Route 128** and the **Route 130**, serve Croydon and connect to regional transportation hubs. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. While SEPTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessible buses and stations, the availability of elevators and ramps at all stops is not always guaranteed, especially in older areas. Delays and unexpected route changes can further complicate travel, particularly for those undergoing treatment.

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a convenient on-demand transportation option. Their availability in 19021 is generally good, providing a relatively reliable way to reach medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can quickly accumulate, posing a financial strain for patients already facing significant medical expenses. The reliability of these services is also subject to driver availability, which can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as **LogistiCare** or **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)**, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices. However, eligibility for these services often depends on insurance coverage and specific medical requirements. The process of scheduling and coordinating these services can sometimes be complex, requiring prior planning and coordination with healthcare providers and insurance companies.

The location of major hospitals and cancer centers in relation to 19021 significantly impacts healthcare access. **Jefferson Health – Bucks Hospital** in Langhorne, PA, is a relatively close option, offering a range of medical services, including cancer care. Reaching **Fox Chase Cancer Center** in Philadelphia, a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility, involves a longer commute, typically requiring travel via the Pennsylvania Turnpike or U.S. Route 1. **The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)**, also in Philadelphia, offers comprehensive cancer care, but again, the commute adds to the time and effort required for treatment. The distance and transportation challenges to these facilities can be particularly daunting for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 19021, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. While the availability of personal vehicles and ride-sharing services provides some flexibility, the limitations of public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic congestion all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation. The distance to specialized cancer centers and the complexities of coordinating medical transportation further compound the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Croydon, this score offers a critical lens through which to view the community. While Croydon offers many appealing aspects, including its proximity to Philadelphia and its relatively affordable housing, prospective residents, particularly those with a history of cancer or a family history of the disease, should carefully consider the implications of transportation on their healthcare access. Investigating the availability of specific healthcare services within the area, researching the reliability of public transportation, and understanding the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation are essential steps in making an informed decision.

The journey through breast cancer is already challenging. Ensuring easy and reliable transportation to healthcare appointments is a crucial element in supporting patients throughout their treatment and recovery. In 19021, a concerted effort to improve public transportation, increase the affordability of ride-sharing, and streamline access to medical transportation services could significantly enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" and improve the quality of life for those navigating this difficult journey. It is a call to action for local authorities, healthcare providers, and community organizations to work together to ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier for residents of Croydon.