19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.54 percent of residents in 19131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Presbyterian Medical Center with a distance of 2.04 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19131

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical diagnoses like breast cancer, is a significant factor in a patient’s well-being. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” examines the accessibility of breast cancer treatment options for residents of ZIP code 19131 in Philadelphia, focusing on transportation, a crucial element of healthcare access. For those considering moving to Philadelphia, understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount.

The 19131 ZIP code, nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and ride-sharing availability to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This information is vital for residents and those contemplating a move, as it directly impacts the ability to receive timely and effective care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many, and the efficiency of this option significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Accessing major hospitals like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Jefferson Health, known for their comprehensive cancer centers, requires navigating Philadelphia's roadways.

From 19131, the journey to HUP, using the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) and then City Avenue, typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time. The Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) offers an alternative route, but it's often congested.

Reaching Jefferson Health, which is located in Center City, involves navigating the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) and the Vine Street Expressway (I-676). This commute can take 25 to 45 minutes, again, highly dependent on traffic conditions. The availability of parking near these hospitals is another consideration, adding to the overall time and cost.

The condition of the roads, including potholes and construction zones, can also impact drive times. The Breast Cancer Score takes these factors into account, recognizing that delays can create stress and anxiety for patients already dealing with a serious illness.

**Public Transit: Navigating the SEPTA Network**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, SEPTA, offers a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid the stress of driving. The SEPTA network includes bus routes, subway lines, and regional rail services, providing diverse options for reaching healthcare facilities.

Several bus routes serve the 19131 area, including the 23, 56, and 70. These routes provide direct access to various hospitals and medical centers. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours. The 23 bus, for example, runs along Germantown Avenue, a major thoroughfare, and can be subject to traffic delays.

The Market-Frankford Line (Blue Line) offers a faster option for reaching Center City and accessing hospitals like Jefferson Health. Passengers can transfer from bus routes to the Market-Frankford Line at various stations. The Broad Street Line (Orange Line) is also accessible, though it may require a transfer to another mode of transportation.

SEPTA strives to provide accessible services for all riders. All subway stations and most bus routes offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps, elevators, and accessible seating. This is a critical consideration for breast cancer patients who may have mobility limitations.

The Breast Cancer Score evaluates the frequency, reliability, and accessibility of SEPTA routes. It considers the convenience of transfers and the overall travel time, recognizing that public transit can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who need door-to-door transportation and may not be able to drive themselves.

Ride-sharing availability in 19131 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. The Breast Cancer Score takes these cost considerations into account, recognizing that transportation expenses can add to the financial burden of cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility issues.

These medical transport services are often covered by insurance, which can make them a more affordable option than ride-sharing. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the availability and accessibility of these services in 19131, recognizing their importance for patients who require specialized transportation.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for 19131 considers all these factors – drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation options – to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The score is not just a numerical value; it's a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by residents seeking breast cancer treatment.

The score emphasizes the importance of transportation in healthcare access. It acknowledges that delays, traffic congestion, and unreliable public transit can create stress and anxiety for patients. Conversely, the availability of convenient and accessible transportation options can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better health outcomes.

For those considering moving to Philadelphia, the Breast Cancer Score provides valuable insights into the realities of accessing healthcare in different areas of the city. It underscores the importance of considering transportation options when choosing a place to live, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking access to specialized medical care.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare. It serves as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to improve healthcare access and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer treatment. It is a crucial piece of information for anyone making the move to Philadelphia.