19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.64 percent of residents in 19050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 0.85 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19050

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. It's not just about the treatment itself; it's about the practicalities of getting there. This write-up assesses the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of ZIP code 19050 (Lansdowne, Pennsylvania), considering the vital element of transportation. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a picture of healthcare access for those living in this Delaware County community. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Lansdowne, as understanding these factors is essential for informed healthcare decisions.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a holistic evaluation of the ease with which residents can reach crucial healthcare facilities. The score considers the time, cost, and convenience of various transportation options. A high score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

For residents of 19050, the primary hospitals offering comprehensive breast cancer care are located in the surrounding areas. Driving remains a significant mode of transportation, with the ease of access varying based on location and traffic conditions.

**Driving Directions:**

The closest major hospital, **Mercy Catholic Medical Center**, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours. The most direct route involves using **Baltimore Pike (US-1)**, a major thoroughfare. While generally efficient, Baltimore Pike experiences congestion, especially near the intersection with **State Road**. Alternative routes, such as utilizing **Lansdowne Avenue** and connecting to other roads like **Garrett Road**, might offer a slightly less congested option, but could add to the overall travel time.

**Crozer-Chester Medical Center**, a larger facility with extensive oncology services, is about a 20-25 minute drive. This journey often involves using **Woodlyn Avenue** to connect to **Chester Pike (PA-13)** or **I-95**. The I-95 route, while faster in theory, can be prone to delays due to accidents or construction. The Chester Pike option, though slower, offers a more consistent travel time.

**The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)**, a nationally recognized center for cancer care, is a more significant undertaking. The drive typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The most common route involves taking **Lansdowne Avenue** to **City Avenue (US-1)**, then connecting to the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)**. The Schuylkill Expressway is notorious for its unpredictable traffic, making this journey the most variable in terms of travel time.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus and train services within 19050.

**SEPTA's Route 102** (Media/Sharon Hill Trolley) offers a direct connection to the **Drexel Hill Junction**, where connections to the **Market-Frankford Line** are available. This is a viable option for reaching hospitals in Center City Philadelphia, including HUP. However, this route involves a transfer, adding to the overall travel time, which can be between 45 minutes to an hour.

**SEPTA's Route 113** (Lansdowne/Aldan) provides a bus service that connects to the **69th Street Transportation Center**, a major hub with access to the Market-Frankford Line and regional rail lines. This offers another route to Center City hospitals, though again, it involves transfers and potential delays.

**ADA Accessibility:** SEPTA strives to provide accessible services. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. Many train stations and trolley stops have elevators and ramps. However, accessibility can vary, and it is essential to confirm the accessibility of specific stations and routes before travel.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in 19050. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Several medical transportation services specialize in providing transportation to medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** are examples of such services, though their availability and coverage may vary. These services require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Factors Affecting the Breast Cancer Score:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 19050 is influenced by several factors. The proximity of hospitals, the efficiency of the road network, the reliability of public transportation, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation all play a role.

**The Score's Limitations:**

This assessment is a general overview. Individual experiences may vary based on personal circumstances, such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and specific healthcare needs. The score does not account for the quality of care at the hospitals, only the accessibility of getting there.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of 19050, the "Breast Cancer Score" indicates a moderate level of healthcare access. Driving offers the most direct routes, but traffic can be a significant factor. Public transportation provides an alternative, but it involves transfers and longer travel times. Ride-sharing services offer convenience, but at a higher cost. Medical transportation services provide specialized support, but availability and eligibility must be considered.

Understanding these transportation options is crucial for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis. It is also a vital consideration for those contemplating moving to Lansdowne, ensuring they can access the necessary healthcare services. The best approach is to research all available options, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the transportation strategy that best suits individual needs and circumstances. The journey to healthcare is a personal one, and having a clear understanding of the transportation landscape is a vital step in navigating it successfully.