19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.45 percent of residents in 19148 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Hospital with a distance of 1.87 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19148

Moving to Philadelphia, especially if you're considering healthcare access, requires careful consideration of transportation options. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," focuses on commute times and available transportation for individuals in ZIP Code 19148 seeking breast cancer care. This area, encompassing parts of West Philadelphia, presents a unique landscape of accessibility, where navigating to appointments becomes a crucial factor in overall well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the average commute time, factoring in various transportation modes to reach the nearest breast cancer treatment facilities. This includes hospitals with dedicated oncology departments, diagnostic centers specializing in mammograms and biopsies, and radiation therapy centers. The score will be influenced by the ease of access, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Driving the Distance:**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for transportation in and out of 19148 are the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) and City Avenue. The Schuylkill Expressway, while offering direct access to Center City and beyond, can be notorious for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Heading east towards major hospitals like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson, expect drive times of 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

Traveling west on I-76 towards facilities like Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood presents a similar challenge. City Avenue, a major thoroughfare, offers an alternative route, but it is often congested, adding significant time to your journey. During off-peak hours, a drive to Lankenau might take 20-30 minutes, but during rush hour, this could easily double. Parking availability at these facilities is another variable to consider, often requiring additional time to locate a space.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), provides a network of buses, trolleys, and the Market-Frankford Line (the "El") offering alternative routes. Several bus routes, including the 42, 40, and 30, traverse 19148, providing connections to major hospitals and healthcare facilities. The 42 bus, for instance, offers a direct route to HUP and the University City area.

The Market-Frankford Line, with stations like 52nd Street and 46th Street, provides a rapid transit option to Center City. From there, transfers to other lines or buses can connect you to various healthcare locations. However, the El can be crowded during peak hours, and the transfer process adds to the overall travel time. Accessibility is a critical factor for those with mobility challenges. SEPTA strives to offer ADA-compliant features, including elevators and ramps at many stations, but it's essential to confirm accessibility at your specific destination.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient, on-demand transportation. They are particularly useful for those who cannot drive or prefer not to navigate public transit. The cost of these services, however, can add up, especially for frequent appointments. During periods of high demand, surge pricing can further increase the expense.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a specialized option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like LogistiCare and Access2Care are prevalent in the Philadelphia area, offering transportation for eligible individuals. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as insurance coverage or medical necessity.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Action:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 19148 considers the following factors: the average commute time to the nearest breast cancer treatment centers via various transportation modes; the availability of public transit, including ADA accessibility; the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services; and the overall cost of transportation.

A higher score indicates better access, with shorter commute times, readily available public transit, and affordable transportation options. A lower score indicates challenges, such as longer commute times, limited public transit options, and higher transportation costs.

**Specific Examples:**

Let's consider a hypothetical scenario: a resident of 19148 needs to attend a mammogram appointment at HUP. Driving during rush hour could take 45 minutes to an hour, while taking the 42 bus might take 45-60 minutes, including walking time. A ride-share could cost $20-$30, depending on demand. A medical transport service might offer door-to-door service but require a pre-booking and potentially a co-pay.

Another scenario: a resident needs radiation therapy at Lankenau Medical Center. Driving during off-peak hours might take 25 minutes. The SEPTA 44 bus offers a route, but it might involve a transfer and take over an hour. A ride-share could cost $25-$35.

**Navigating the System:**

For individuals moving to Philadelphia, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Before making a move, research the proximity of healthcare facilities, assess the availability of public transit, and explore the costs of ride-sharing and medical transport.

When moving to 19148, consider the location of your residence in relation to major roads and public transit routes. Living closer to bus stops or El stations can significantly improve access to healthcare. Researching insurance coverage for medical transportation services is also essential.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access in 19148. By understanding the nuances of transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. While 19148 offers a range of transportation options, navigating the system requires careful planning and awareness of the challenges and opportunities available. The goal is to ensure that individuals can access the care they need efficiently and with minimal stress, particularly during a challenging time.