17778, Westport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17778, Westport, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.52 percent of residents in 17778 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 10.04 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Accessing Care in ZIP Code 17778

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as daunting as lung cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. For residents of ZIP Code 17778, a rural area, understanding the complexities of **transportation** options becomes paramount. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, assesses **healthcare access** by examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering insights for residents and those considering **moving to Westport**, the primary town within the zip code.

The geographical reality of 17778 presents a unique challenge. Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, the landscape is characterized by rolling hills and winding roads. This remoteness significantly impacts the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical facilities. The closest major hospital, UPMC Williamsport, lies approximately 30 miles away, a journey that can be fraught with delays depending on the chosen route and time of day.

Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents. The most direct route to UPMC Williamsport involves navigating a combination of roadways. From Westport, the journey typically begins on PA-44, a scenic but often slow-moving road. This highway then merges onto US-220, a faster, limited-access highway that provides a more efficient route to the city. The drive, under ideal conditions, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. However, factors like traffic, particularly during peak hours, and seasonal weather conditions can easily extend this travel time.

Alternative routes exist, though they often involve longer distances and more winding roads. For example, utilizing PA-184 and PA-442 can be a viable option, adding approximately 15-20 minutes to the overall travel time. This route, while offering a different perspective of the countryside, also introduces more potential for delays due to slower speed limits and the presence of local traffic. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, must also be considered.

Public **transportation** options in 17778 are limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA), which offers bus services in the Williamsport area. However, the RVTA's reach into the more rural areas of Lycoming County is significantly restricted. Direct routes from Westport to UPMC Williamsport are virtually nonexistent. Passengers would likely need to travel to a central hub, such as Williamsport, and then transfer to a bus route serving the hospital.

This multi-leg journey, involving potential waiting times and transfers, adds considerable time and complexity to the commute. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while present within the RVTA fleet, may be limited on specific routes or during certain times. This aspect is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a factor that can be particularly relevant for those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for **transportation** needs. However, their availability in 17778 is inconsistent. While these services may be present in the Williamsport area, their presence in Westport and the surrounding rural areas is less certain. The reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, cannot be guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer another avenue for **healthcare access**. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services typically involve scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs, often utilizing specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare are prominent in the healthcare **transportation** sector, and their services may be available in the 17778 area. However, the availability of these services is often dependent on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient. Furthermore, booking these services requires advance planning, which can be a challenge in emergency situations or for unexpected appointments.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17778, therefore, reflects a complex landscape of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public **transportation** options and the uncertainty surrounding ride-sharing services, creates a situation where access to timely and efficient medical care can be challenging. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a crucial lifeline, but their accessibility and reliance on insurance coverage must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Westport** or residing within the 17778 ZIP Code, the implications of these **transportation** limitations are significant. The ability to reach medical appointments, including those for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment, is a critical factor in overall health outcomes. Prospective residents should carefully assess their personal **transportation** needs and explore all available options, including carpooling, family support, and the potential utilization of medical **transportation** services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical rating. It is a nuanced assessment of the realities of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. It highlights the importance of proactive planning, the need for robust support networks, and the potential impact of **transportation** limitations on the quality of life for residents of 17778. Understanding these complexities is crucial for anyone seeking to live in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region. The journey to healthcare is a vital one, and for residents of Westport, the path requires careful navigation and a deep understanding of the available resources.