17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17750 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Lock Haven with a distance of 5.43 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mackeyville (ZIP Code 17750)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely access to quality healthcare is paramount for diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, survival. This report analyzes the accessibility of lung cancer-related medical services for residents of Mackeyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17750), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We’ll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for those residing in or considering moving to this rural community.

Mackeyville, nestled within the heart of Clinton County, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. Its rural setting, characterized by rolling hills and farmlands, dictates the transportation landscape. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors, weighing the convenience and efficiency of each transportation method against the potential barriers to timely care.

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

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Mackeyville are the roadways. The most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the well-maintained but often winding routes of the region. Traveling east on **Route 64** is the initial leg, leading to the more significant thoroughfare of **Interstate 80 (I-80)**. This interstate is the primary link to larger urban centers with advanced medical services.

Driving west on **Route 64** connects to **Route 220**, which eventually leads to Williamsport, approximately 45 minutes to an hour away, home to UPMC Williamsport. This facility offers a range of medical services, including cancer care. The drive involves navigating two-lane highways, which can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours.

Further afield, **I-80** provides access to larger metropolitan areas. Driving east on **I-80** will get you to the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania, a drive of approximately one hour and 45 minutes. This is a major regional medical center with specialized cancer care. The travel time, however, can be extended by traffic, weather conditions, or road construction.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the potential impact of these factors on healthcare access. Longer drive times increase the risk of delays in diagnosis and treatment. The rural nature of the area means that weather conditions, such as snow or ice, can significantly impact travel times and make it more difficult to access healthcare facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Mackeyville are limited. The primary provider of public transportation in Clinton County is the Clinton County Transportation Authority (CCTA). While the CCTA offers demand-response services, meaning that the bus routes are determined by user requests, these services are not designed to be time-sensitive and therefore are not ideal for those needing regular cancer treatments.

The CCTA operates on a dial-a-ride system. Potential patients would need to call in advance to schedule a ride. The service is available to all residents of Clinton County, including those with disabilities. However, the flexibility of the service is limited. There are no scheduled routes that regularly travel to Williamsport or other larger medical centers.

The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the limitations of public transit in this area. While the CCTA provides a valuable service for local residents, it is not a viable option for those needing to get to cancer treatments quickly or on a regular basis.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients. The distance to major medical centers means that ride-sharing fares can be substantial.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services are often covered by insurance, but they may require pre-authorization or have specific eligibility requirements.

The "Lung Cancer Score" recognizes the potential role of ride-sharing and medical transport services in bridging the gap in healthcare access. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be a reliable option for all patients.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Mackeyville**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mackeyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17750) reflects the challenges of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare services. The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance to major medical centers, such as UPMC Williamsport and Geisinger Medical Center, is significant. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
* **Public Transit:** Public transit options are extremely limited, making it difficult for patients to access healthcare services.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services are available, but their availability and cost can be a barrier for some patients.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services are available, but they may require pre-authorization or have specific eligibility requirements.

For individuals considering moving to Mackeyville, these factors should be carefully considered. Those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk should assess their ability to access timely medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles or the potential need for medical transport services adds complexity to healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mackeyville highlights the importance of proactive planning for those facing or at risk of lung cancer. While the community offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical care poses a challenge. Careful consideration of transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, is essential.

For residents of Mackeyville, understanding the available transportation options and planning for potential delays is crucial. For those considering moving to the area, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential before making a decision. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about healthcare access in this rural community.