17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 8.67 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730)**

The air hangs crisp and clean in Dewart, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in the heart of Northumberland County. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a complex challenge: accessing timely and effective healthcare. This report, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 17730, evaluating the accessibility of vital medical resources, specifically focusing on lung cancer treatment and care. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Dewart, or for current residents navigating their healthcare journey.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several factors. These include the distance to specialized oncology centers, the availability of various transportation options, and the overall ease of reaching essential medical appointments. A higher score indicates better accessibility, while a lower score highlights potential barriers to care. This analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities within this rural Pennsylvania community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For residents of Dewart, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The nearest major healthcare hubs, offering comprehensive cancer treatment, are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding the area. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 20 miles away, is a crucial destination. The drive to Danville typically involves navigating Route 147, a two-lane highway that winds along the Susquehanna River. During peak traffic hours, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times, the journey can take up to 45 minutes.

Another vital destination is UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, approximately 30 miles from Dewart. This trip necessitates traveling on Route 147 to Route 15, a limited-access highway. The drive time to Williamsport can vary from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Road construction, a frequent occurrence in the region, can significantly impact travel times, adding to the stress of patients and caregivers. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, with snow and ice, can create further transportation challenges.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is also a factor. While both Geisinger and UPMC Susquehanna offer ample parking, navigating the parking lots and finding a suitable spot can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment. The cost of parking, while not exorbitant, adds another layer of expense to the overall healthcare burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Dewart and the surrounding areas are limited. The River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA) provides bus service in the Williamsport area, but its routes do not directly serve Dewart. The RVTA does offer some limited "demand response" services, but these services are typically available by appointment and require advance notice. These services are often targeted towards seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. For individuals reliant on public transit, accessing specialized cancer care necessitates complex arrangements, including potentially multiple transfers and extended travel times.

The RVTA does strive to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, with buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance planning can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport and Danville areas. However, their availability in Dewart itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduling a ride in advance and may offer door-to-door assistance. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, especially in rural areas.

The cost of these alternative transportation options, coupled with the potential for delays and logistical challenges, can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a lung cancer diagnosis. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation significantly impacts healthcare access.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Dewart: A Summary**

Based on the factors considered, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Dewart, PA (ZIP code 17730) is moderate. While major medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Dewart, or for those already residing in the area, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial. Planning for medical appointments requires careful consideration of travel times, potential delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options. The need for proactive planning, including the potential for relying on family, friends, or specialized transportation services, is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of community resources. Local initiatives that support transportation for medical appointments, such as volunteer driver programs or partnerships with ride-sharing services, can significantly improve healthcare access for residents of Dewart and similar rural communities. Further investment in public transportation, including expanding service to underserved areas, is essential to ensure equitable healthcare access for all.