17771, Trout Run, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17771, Trout Run, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.42 percent of residents in 17771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Williamsport with a distance of 11.92 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Trout Run, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17771)**

The crisp mountain air of Trout Run, Pennsylvania, a haven for those seeking respite from the hustle, presents a unique challenge: healthcare access. While the community boasts a tranquil charm, the journey to receive critical medical care, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, requires careful consideration. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 17771, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this complex disease. This is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Trout Run, or for current residents needing to understand their options.

The primary concern is the distance. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are not within walking distance. The rural nature of the region necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. The drive times, therefore, become a critical factor. The quality of life in Trout Run is directly linked to the ease with which residents can access potentially life-saving treatments.

**Roads and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the roads. From Trout Run, the primary thoroughfare is Pennsylvania Route 14, a two-lane highway that winds through the scenic valleys. This route provides access to Williamsport, approximately 30 miles south, where the UPMC Williamsport hospital complex offers oncology services. The drive on Route 14, depending on traffic and weather conditions, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Another option is to head north on Route 14, connecting to U.S. Route 6, a major east-west artery. This route leads to larger cities like Scranton or Binghamton, New York, where more specialized cancer centers can be found. However, this journey is significantly longer, potentially exceeding two hours, depending on the final destination. Delays due to weather or accidents on these routes can be particularly problematic, emphasizing the need for reliable transportation.

The secondary roads, such as the local township roads, are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow and winding. These roads are less direct and can add to the overall travel time. During winter months, snow and ice can make these roads treacherous, further complicating healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the region are limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit, but their services are primarily concentrated in the Williamsport area. There is no regular public transit service that directly serves Trout Run. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts those who do not own a vehicle, or who are unable to drive due to their condition or other limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on any potential public transit options is a crucial consideration for those with mobility challenges. While River Valley Transit vehicles are ADA-compliant, the lack of service to Trout Run renders this feature moot for residents of the ZIP code. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or other alternative transportation methods for healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, but their presence in Trout Run is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments would be challenging.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Companies like LifeStar EMS and other regional providers offer non-emergency medical transport, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services are typically pre-booked and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they come at a cost, and the availability of these services in the Trout Run area should be confirmed.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Trout Run reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. The score would be negatively impacted by the following factors: the distance to comprehensive cancer centers, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation.

The score would be positively influenced by: the generally well-maintained road network, the availability of local primary care physicians who can provide initial assessments and referrals, and the presence of specialized medical transport services.

The overall score would likely be moderate, reflecting the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing healthcare in a rural setting. It is essential for anyone considering moving to Trout Run, or for current residents, to thoroughly assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

**Moving to Trout Run: A Considered Decision**

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk for lung cancer, the transportation component becomes even more critical. The frequency of appointments, the need for specialized treatments, and the potential for physical limitations all demand careful consideration.

Before making the move to Trout Run, or any rural area, potential residents should:

* **Research the location of the nearest cancer centers.**
* **Assess the drive times and road conditions.**
* **Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services.**
* **Consider the reliability of personal transportation and the need for backup plans.**

The decision to live in Trout Run should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and a proactive plan to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. The beauty and tranquility of the region must be balanced with the practicalities of managing a serious illness. This is the essence of the "Lung Cancer Score" – a framework for informed decision-making.