17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17834, Kulpmont, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 17834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kulpmont, PA (ZIP Code 17834)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized healthcare. For residents of Kulpmont, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17834), the journey to quality care is a critical factor in their health outcomes. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the transportation landscape, meticulously examining the challenges and opportunities for individuals facing this formidable disease. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements in determining healthcare access.

Kulpmont, a borough nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique transportation profile. Its rural setting necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, making transportation a significant consideration. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the practicality and efficiency of reaching these vital healthcare resources.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for residents of Kulpmont seeking specialized lung cancer care. The journey's duration is heavily influenced by traffic conditions and the distance to relevant medical facilities. The primary routes involve navigating a network of state and local roads.

Reaching Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major healthcare provider, typically entails a drive of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The route primarily utilizes **Pennsylvania Route 61** South and then **Interstate 80** East, offering a relatively direct pathway. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times.

Another option is the drive to UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport, a journey that can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. This route involves utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 61** North and then **U.S. Route 15** North. While generally less congested than the Danville route, weather conditions and potential road closures can significantly impact travel times.

These drive times, while manageable, can be challenging for individuals undergoing treatment, experiencing fatigue, or facing mobility limitations. The Lung Cancer Score considers these factors, recognizing that every minute of travel can impact a patient's well-being.

**Public Transit Prospects:**

Public transportation options in Kulpmont and the surrounding areas are limited. This constraint presents a significant hurdle for those without access to personal vehicles. The availability of public transit directly affects healthcare access, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive.

The primary public transit provider in the region is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA). While NCTA offers some routes, the service area is limited, and routes may not directly serve the hospitals and cancer centers. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be infrequent, and the routes may not align with the schedules of medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. NCTA vehicles are generally equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and ramps. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of public transit remain a challenge for many residents.

The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges the limitations of public transit in the area. While it offers a potential lifeline for some, it is not a reliable or readily available option for most Kulpmont residents seeking lung cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Kulpmont and the surrounding rural areas can be sporadic. The presence of ride-sharing services is directly related to the population density and demand, which can be limited in this area.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical supervision during transport. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including, but not limited to, local ambulance services and private medical transport providers.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability, cost, and reliability of these ride-sharing and medical transportation options. These services can be crucial for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, and their availability may not always align with the needs of patients.

**Moving to Kulpmont and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Kulpmont, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of assessing healthcare access. The availability of transportation options is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to specialized care. Potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural setting.

The Lung Cancer Score encourages prospective residents to research the availability of medical transportation services, assess the feasibility of relying on ride-sharing, and consider the potential limitations of public transit. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Kulpmont and ensuring access to quality healthcare.

**Conclusion: The Lung Cancer Score for Kulpmont**

The Lung Cancer Score for Kulpmont, PA (ZIP Code 17834) reveals a transportation landscape that presents both challenges and opportunities. While drive times to major cancer centers are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential constraints of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The score emphasizes the importance of personal vehicles and the need for reliable transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score underscores the significance of healthcare access in the context of a lung cancer diagnosis. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape, highlighting the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness to ensure that residents of Kulpmont can access the care they need.