17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17857, Northumberland, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.93 percent of residents in 17857 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 11.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Northumberland, PA (ZIP Code 17857)

Moving to a new area, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant decision. For residents of Northumberland, PA (ZIP code 17857), understanding the accessibility of lung cancer care is crucial. This "Lung Cancer Score" analyzes the available **transportation** options and their impact on reaching essential medical facilities, offering a comprehensive overview of **healthcare access** in the region. This information is vital for anyone **moving to Northumberland**, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer.

The primary focus is on accessing facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer, including hospitals with oncology departments, radiation therapy centers, and pulmonology specialists. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a realistic picture of the journey to care.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many Northumberland residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities often involves navigating the local road network. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is a crucial destination. The drive to Geisinger from Northumberland typically involves taking US-11 South, a well-maintained highway, and then PA-54 East.

During off-peak hours, this journey is generally completed within 25-35 minutes, covering approximately 20 miles. However, traffic can significantly impact travel times, particularly during rush hour, when the commute can extend to 45 minutes or longer. Weather conditions, especially during winter months, can further complicate the journey, necessitating careful planning and potentially delaying appointments.

Another important destination is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg. This trip often utilizes US-15 South. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes, spanning around 10 miles. The route is generally straightforward, but again, traffic and weather can influence travel times. Residents should factor in these variables when scheduling appointments and planning treatments.

Smaller clinics and specialist offices are scattered throughout the region, offering some localized care. However, for comprehensive lung cancer treatment, the larger hospitals remain the primary destinations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Alternative**

Public transit options in Northumberland County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) operates a bus service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for frequent trips to medical facilities.

The SVTA primarily serves the Sunbury and Shamokin areas, with limited routes extending to surrounding towns. While some routes may offer connections to Danville or Lewisburg, the travel times are considerably longer than driving. The bus service is not designed for direct routes, and transfers are often required, adding significant time and potential stress to the journey.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SVTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the indirect routes can still pose challenges for those with mobility issues or requiring frequent medical appointments. Careful planning and coordination are essential when relying on public **transportation** for **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Northumberland area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, wait times can be prolonged, and fares can be higher.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, medical transport services provide a crucial link to healthcare. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they provide a reliable and accessible option for those who need it.

Medical transport providers often offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying them to appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, weakness, or other side effects.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **AmbuBus:** Offers non-emergency medical transport.
* **MedStar Ambulance:** Provides both emergency and non-emergency services.
* **Care Ride:** A regional provider of medical transport.

**The Score and Considerations for Moving**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Northumberland, PA (17857) reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to major healthcare facilities are relatively manageable, the limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. For individuals **moving to Northumberland** with lung cancer or at high risk, careful consideration of **transportation** options is essential.

Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Choosing a residence closer to Geisinger Medical Center or Evangelical Community Hospital can significantly reduce drive times.
* **Vehicle ownership and maintenance:** Having a reliable vehicle is crucial for accessing medical care.
* **Financial resources:** The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be substantial.
* **Support network:** Having family or friends who can provide **transportation** assistance can be invaluable.
* **Accessibility needs:** Individuals with mobility issues should carefully assess the accessibility of public transit and the availability of medical transport services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing lung cancer care in Northumberland. By understanding the available **transportation** options and their limitations, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and proactively plan for their well-being. This assessment provides a valuable framework for anyone considering **moving to Northumberland** and seeking to ensure adequate **healthcare access**.