17754, Montoursville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17754, Montoursville, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.03 percent of residents in 17754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Williamsport with a distance of 5.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Montoursville, PA (ZIP Code 17754)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Montoursville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17754), the availability and accessibility of these vital services are significantly influenced by the local transportation infrastructure. This write-up analyzes the challenges and opportunities presented by the region's transportation landscape, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all critical factors when facing a serious illness. It's an essential consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Montoursville.

Montoursville, nestled in Lycoming County, boasts a charming small-town atmosphere, but its relative isolation presents hurdles for those seeking specialized medical care. The primary healthcare providers serving the area are UPMC Williamsport Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. The distance to these facilities, combined with the vagaries of local transportation, directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

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

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is the personal vehicle. The journey to UPMC Williamsport Hospital, located approximately 5 miles from the center of Montoursville, is typically a straightforward drive. Most residents will utilize **Route 220**, a major north-south artery, and the local roads of **Broad Street** or **Loyalsock Avenue**. The drive time is usually under 15 minutes, making this facility readily accessible for routine check-ups and initial consultations.

However, for more specialized care, such as advanced oncology treatments or surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, roughly 45 miles away. The primary route involves taking **Route 15** south, a major highway that can experience significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The drive time can range from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, increasing fatigue and potentially delaying access to critical care. The "Lung Cancer Score" suffers due to this reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for prolonged travel.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Mobility**

Public transportation options in Montoursville and the surrounding areas are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary provider is the Lycoming County Transportation Services (LCTS), which operates a demand-response system. This means that rides must be scheduled in advance, often with several days' notice. This service is available to anyone, but it's essential for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The LCTS does not offer fixed-route bus services within Montoursville or to Williamsport. Transportation to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville would involve a significant time commitment and multiple transfers. The lack of frequent and reliable public transit options severely limits the "Lung Cancer Score," particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or the financial means for alternative transportation.

While the LCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the scheduling requirements and the limited service area pose challenges for patients needing regular medical appointments. Furthermore, the wait times associated with demand-response systems can be lengthy, adding to the stress and inconvenience for patients. This lack of robust public transit infrastructure significantly reduces the "Lung Cancer Score."

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montoursville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some patients, particularly those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with travel to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies, such as First Transit and Care Ride, operate in the area. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can further impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and the Decision to Move**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Montoursville, PA (ZIP Code 17754), reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While access to UPMC Williamsport Hospital is relatively straightforward, the distance to Geisinger Medical Center and the limitations of public transit pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic delays, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation all contribute to a lower "Lung Cancer Score."

For individuals considering moving to Montoursville, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their healthcare needs and transportation options. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits. A thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape is crucial for making an informed decision, especially for those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static metric; it can be improved through community initiatives, such as advocating for increased public transit options or supporting programs that provide affordable transportation assistance to patients. Furthermore, the development of telehealth services and the expansion of local healthcare facilities can enhance healthcare access and improve the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of Montoursville.