17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.42 percent of residents in 17760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17760

The journey to healthcare, a critical determinant of health outcomes, takes on particular significance for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. In the quaint borough of North Bend, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17760 ZIP code, the accessibility of specialized lung cancer care becomes a paramount concern. This write-up delves into the intricate tapestry of transportation options available, evaluating their impact on healthcare access and ultimately, constructing a "Lung Cancer Score" tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of this rural community. Considering moving to North Bend? Understanding these factors is essential.

The physical geography of North Bend, cradled by the sinuous curves of the Susquehanna River and embraced by the rugged embrace of the Appalachian Mountains, presents a significant hurdle to healthcare access. The limited public transit options and the distances to specialized medical facilities necessitate a deep understanding of the available transportation infrastructure. This understanding is crucial in formulating a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the real-world challenges faced by patients in this area.

The primary artery of transportation in and out of North Bend is Route 120, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the rugged terrain. Driving to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, located in Williamsport, a city approximately 50 miles east, typically requires a drive time of around one hour and fifteen minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This drive, while manageable, demands a significant time commitment, especially for individuals undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The winding nature of Route 120 can also pose challenges for patients with mobility issues or those experiencing treatment-related side effects.

Alternative routes, such as Route 44, offer a slightly longer but potentially less congested option, especially during peak travel times. However, these roads are often subject to seasonal closures due to inclement weather, particularly during the winter months. The unpredictable nature of mountain weather further complicates the transportation equation, potentially delaying or disrupting critical medical appointments. This variability is a key factor in assessing the reliability and overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the region.

Public transportation options within the 17760 ZIP code are extremely limited. The primary provider, Lycoming County Transportation, offers a demand-response service. This service requires advance booking and is not designed for spontaneous trips. The buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair lifts, but the service is constrained by its operational hours and geographic limitations. Furthermore, the travel time to Williamsport via public transit can easily exceed two hours, making it a less-than-ideal option for individuals with time-sensitive medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in the 17760 ZIP code. This absence significantly restricts the transportation choices for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of ride-sharing options further exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for those without family or friends to provide transportation. This deficiency weighs heavily on the "Lung Cancer Score," highlighting the critical need for alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who need assistance with medical equipment. However, the availability of NEMT providers in the 17760 ZIP code is limited, and the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for patients.

The absence of robust public transit, the lack of ride-sharing options, and the limited availability of NEMT services all contribute to a lower "Lung Cancer Score" for the 17760 ZIP code. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times, and the potential for weather-related disruptions create significant barriers to healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals undergoing intensive treatment regimens or those with limited mobility.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17760 must therefore consider the following factors: drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, availability and reliability of public transportation, presence of ride-sharing services, access to NEMT providers, and the potential for weather-related disruptions. The score should also factor in the financial burden of transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and the cost of NEMT services.

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score," several interventions could be implemented. Expanding the availability and frequency of Lycoming County Transportation services, particularly to include routes to Williamsport, would significantly improve healthcare access. Subsidizing the cost of NEMT services for low-income patients would also alleviate a significant financial burden. Encouraging ride-sharing companies to extend their service areas to include the 17760 ZIP code would offer a more flexible and convenient transportation option.

Furthermore, telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, could play a vital role in improving healthcare access. Telemedicine consultations and follow-up appointments could reduce the need for frequent travel to Williamsport, thereby minimizing the burden on patients and improving their overall quality of life.

Finally, community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could provide essential transportation assistance to patients in need. These programs, often organized by local hospitals or community organizations, can offer a lifeline to individuals struggling with transportation challenges.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for the 17760 ZIP code reflects the unique challenges and opportunities of a rural community. The limited transportation options, the long drive times, and the potential for weather-related disruptions create significant barriers to healthcare access. However, by implementing targeted interventions, such as expanding public transit, subsidizing NEMT services, encouraging ride-sharing, promoting telemedicine, and fostering community-based initiatives, the "Lung Cancer Score" can be improved, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis in North Bend. The journey to healthcare should not be a burden, and by addressing the transportation challenges, we can ensure that all residents of 17760 have access to the care they need. Considering moving to North Bend? Be mindful of these crucial transportation and healthcare access factors.