17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.22 percent of residents in 17847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.18 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17847)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Milton, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled along the Susquehanna River. For those considering a move to this charming locale, or already residing within the 17847 ZIP code, understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for a disease as formidable as lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up delves into the complexities of transportation and its impact on accessing crucial medical services, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" tailored to the specific realities of Milton.

The journey to healthcare begins with the roads. Milton's central location offers a degree of accessibility, yet the surrounding terrain and limited public transit options necessitate careful consideration. Primary access points include Routes 642, 405, and 147, all arteries that feed into the larger network of highways. Route 80, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a vital link to larger medical centers, but its proximity to Milton doesn't guarantee ease of access.

Drive times are critical. Geographically, Milton sits within a reasonable radius of several healthcare facilities. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, approximately a 20-minute drive via Route 405 and Route 15, represents the closest comprehensive option. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a more extensive facility, is reachable in about 30-40 minutes, primarily via Route 147 and Route 80. These times, however, are estimates and can fluctuate dramatically due to traffic, weather conditions, and the time of day. A sudden medical need demands swiftness, and the potential for delays must be factored into any assessment of healthcare access.

Public transportation, a crucial lifeline for many, presents a significant challenge in Milton. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) offers limited bus services. While specific routes servicing Milton may exist, their frequency and reach are restricted. Information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is vital, and it's essential to verify these details directly with the SVTA. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, making access for those without transportation difficult.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Milton area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, therefore, needs to be carefully weighed when considering its role in healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport may operate in the region. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, catering to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Researching the availability and cost of these services within the 17847 ZIP code is crucial.

The availability of specialized lung cancer care is a central concern. While Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center offer comprehensive services, including oncology departments, the distance and transportation challenges can still create barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and supporting staff within a reasonable travel distance directly impacts the quality of care.

Moving to Milton necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Researching the specific services offered by local hospitals and clinics is essential. Contacting these facilities directly to inquire about appointment availability, referral processes, and patient support services is highly recommended. Understanding the insurance coverage for various transportation options is also critical.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Milton, PA (17847) is a composite measure, reflecting the complexities of healthcare access. It considers drive times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, and the presence of specialized lung cancer care.

**Scoring Criteria:**

* **Drive Time to Nearest Comprehensive Cancer Center (Evangelical Community Hospital):** (20 points)
* **Drive Time to Larger Cancer Center (Geisinger Medical Center):** (15 points)
* **Frequency and Reliability of Public Transit:** (10 points)
* **Availability and Cost of Ride-Sharing Services:** (10 points)
* **Availability and Cost of Medical Transportation Services:** (15 points)
* **Availability of Specialized Lung Cancer Care (Pulmonologists, Oncologists):** (20 points)
* **Overall Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:** (10 points)

**Assessment:**

Milton scores moderately well in terms of drive times to healthcare facilities. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services detract from its overall score. The availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance is a positive factor.

**Lung Cancer Score for 17847:**

**65/100**

**Recommendations:**

Individuals considering moving to Milton or already residing there should:

* **Prioritize having a reliable personal vehicle.**
* **Investigate the specific public transit routes and schedules offered by SVTA.**
* **Research and identify medical transportation providers in the area.**
* **Establish relationships with local healthcare providers.**
* **Understand their insurance coverage for all transportation options.**
* **Consider the potential for delays due to traffic and weather.**
* **Actively engage with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive care plan.**

This "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding healthcare access in Milton. It's a starting point, encouraging a deeper dive into the realities of transportation and healthcare access. While Milton offers a charming lifestyle, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential for navigating the complexities of accessing vital medical services, particularly for those facing the challenges of lung cancer. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns.