17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.36 percent of residents in 17812 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 35.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beaver Springs, PA (ZIP Code 17812)

The air in Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania, whispers of rolling hills and rural tranquility. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the peace can be shattered by the complex realities of healthcare access. This write-up provides a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment for ZIP code 17812, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive analysis, aiming to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking treatment and support.

The primary hurdle for residents of Beaver Springs is the distance to specialized oncology care. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns, demanding reliable **transportation**. This is not a simple matter of a quick trip; it's a journey that can significantly impact a patient's physical and emotional well-being. The ability to consistently attend appointments, receive treatments, and access supportive services hinges on the availability and practicality of **transportation** options.

For those with the means, driving is the most common mode of travel. From Beaver Springs, the primary route to larger medical centers involves navigating state highways and local roads. To Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a leading regional healthcare provider, the most direct route typically involves taking Route 522 South to Route 11 North. This drive is approximately 30 miles and can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The winding roads, especially during inclement weather, can present challenges for patients undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or other side effects.

Another crucial destination is the UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, approximately 50 miles away. The journey involves taking Route 522 North to Route 15 North. This drive, which usually takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, provides another option for specialized cancer care. The longer distance, however, places an even greater demand on **transportation** resources and can potentially increase the burden on patients and their families.

Public **transportation** options in Beaver Springs are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. There is no direct bus service connecting Beaver Springs to Danville or Williamsport. This absence forces individuals to rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or potentially, informal arrangements with friends or family. The lack of accessible public **transportation** disproportionately affects those who are unable to drive, lack access to a vehicle, or have limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which may be limited in a rural area like Beaver Springs. The cost of multiple rides per week, especially for treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, can quickly become a significant financial burden. This adds another layer of complexity to the already challenging process of battling lung cancer.

Medical **transportation** services offer a dedicated solution, but they come with their own considerations. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are often contracted by insurance providers to provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services can provide door-to-door service, but they require prior authorization and scheduling, which may not always align with the urgent needs of a cancer patient. Furthermore, the availability of these services can be limited, and the wait times for scheduling can be considerable.

For individuals considering **moving to Beaver Springs**, the **healthcare access** landscape must be carefully evaluated. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public **transportation** underscore the importance of having a reliable vehicle and the financial means to cover **transportation** costs. Prospective residents with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions should meticulously assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care.

The impact of these **transportation** limitations extends beyond the logistical challenges of getting to appointments. The stress of long drives, the financial burden of **transportation** costs, and the potential for social isolation due to limited mobility can all negatively affect a patient's mental and emotional well-being. This is particularly crucial for lung cancer patients, who are already dealing with the physical and emotional toll of their illness.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Beaver Springs (ZIP code 17812) reflects a landscape where **healthcare access** is heavily influenced by the availability and accessibility of **transportation**. While residents have options, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services create significant challenges. Addressing these **transportation** barriers is crucial to ensuring that residents of Beaver Springs have equitable access to the life-saving care they need. This is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Beaver Springs** or already residing there, particularly those with a history of or risk factors for lung cancer.