17721, Avis, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17721, Avis, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.68 percent of residents in 17721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 17721

The journey to healthcare, especially for a critical diagnosis like lung cancer, is a multifaceted equation. It’s not just about the quality of medical professionals but also the ease and reliability of getting there. This assessment, a "Lung Cancer Score," analyzes the transportation landscape for residents of ZIP Code 17721 (currently encompassing Avis, Pennsylvania), providing a detailed picture of healthcare access, crucial for informed decisions regarding treatment and relocation.

The primary challenge in 17721 is its rural nature. This translates to limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles. The nearest major hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in Williamsport, approximately 20 to 30 miles away. The drive to UPMC Williamsport, the primary regional healthcare provider, typically involves navigating US Route 220 South, a well-maintained but often busy highway.

Further, the drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility, is a longer haul. This necessitates traveling south on US Route 220, then east on Interstate 80. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The secondary roads, such as PA Route 44 and PA Route 147, offer alternative routes but are generally slower and may be less suitable for emergency situations or individuals with mobility limitations. These routes are also subject to seasonal variations, with potential for snow and ice during winter months, further complicating transportation.

Public transportation options are severely limited in 17721. The River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT) operates a bus service in the Williamsport area, but its routes do not directly serve Avis or the surrounding rural areas. Even if a resident could access the RVT system, transfers would be necessary, adding significant time and complexity to the journey.

Furthermore, the RVT system’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited frequency of service and the extended travel times make public transit a less viable option for many seeking timely healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, but their presence in Avis is less consistent. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. The cost of a ride-share to Williamsport or Danville could be substantial, especially for frequent appointments, potentially creating a financial barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer another avenue for patients. Emergency medical services are readily available in 17721, but for non-emergency appointments, the options are more limited. Companies specializing in NEMT, like First Transit or Logisticare, may provide transportation to medical appointments, but these services often require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding the distance they cover.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care are essential for effective treatment. The time and effort required to travel to these appointments can be physically and emotionally draining, potentially impacting a patient’s overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17721 is therefore negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

Considering a move to Avis? The transportation factor should be carefully weighed. Individuals with lung cancer or at high risk of developing the disease should prioritize locations with convenient access to comprehensive cancer care. This includes proximity to hospitals, cancer centers, and reliable transportation options.

For those considering relocation to 17721, the availability of support networks, such as family, friends, or community organizations, that can assist with transportation is crucial. Exploring options for home healthcare services or telehealth appointments may also be beneficial.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about understanding the lived experience of individuals navigating the healthcare system. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of the overall healthcare equation.

The future of transportation in 17721 could potentially improve with the development of community-based transportation programs, such as volunteer driver networks or partnerships with local organizations. These initiatives could provide affordable and accessible transportation options for individuals with limited mobility or financial resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a call to action, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to improve healthcare access in rural communities. It underscores the importance of advocating for expanded public transit, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and supporting community-based transportation programs.

The assessment also highlights the need for healthcare providers to consider transportation challenges when developing treatment plans. Offering flexible appointment times, providing telehealth options, and coordinating transportation assistance can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their location, have equal access to the healthcare they need. By addressing the transportation barriers, we can improve the "Lung Cancer Score" for 17721 and create a healthier future for all residents.