17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.13 percent of residents in 17866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coal Township (ZIP Code 17866)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and access to timely and effective treatment is paramount. This report, the "Lung Cancer Score," analyzes the transportation landscape in Coal Township, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17866), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial healthcare facilities. This assessment is particularly pertinent for individuals considering moving to Coal Township, as their health outcomes could be significantly impacted by their proximity to specialized care.

The score considers several key factors: drive times to hospitals and oncology centers, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation options. Each factor is weighted to reflect its importance in ensuring prompt and consistent healthcare access. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities that residents of 17866 face in their journey to receive lung cancer treatment.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Coal Township is the time it takes to reach medical facilities by car. The major roadways serving the area are crucial arteries, dictating the speed and efficiency of travel. Residents rely heavily on **Route 61** and **Route 901** for local movement. **Route 61**, a north-south thoroughfare, provides access to larger towns like Shamokin and Mount Carmel, where some healthcare services are located. **Route 901** offers a connection to the east, towards Ashland and beyond.

For specialized lung cancer care, the closest major hospital with oncology services is **Geisinger Medical Center in Danville**, approximately 30 miles away. The drive to Danville, primarily via **Route 61** and then **Interstate 80**, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Another option is **UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury**, located around 15 miles away, requiring a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes. The route involves a combination of local roads and **Route 61**.

These drive times, while manageable, are subject to potential delays. Inclement weather, rush-hour traffic, and unexpected road closures can significantly impact travel times, potentially jeopardizing timely access to appointments, treatments, and emergency care. The reliability of personal vehicles is, therefore, a critical factor in healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Coal Township are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The **Shumokin Area Transportation Authority (SATA)** operates a small bus network, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily for local travel within the immediate area.

While SATA buses provide some connectivity, they are not specifically tailored to facilitate access to healthcare facilities outside of the immediate vicinity. The routes may not directly serve hospitals or oncology centers, necessitating multiple transfers or a combination of bus travel and walking.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. While SATA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency of routes and the potential for long travel times can still pose significant challenges for those requiring specialized transportation. The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Coal Township is, therefore, a significant barrier for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered an alternative transportation option, potentially filling some of the gaps in public transit. However, the availability of these services in Coal Township is not consistent. Ride-sharing availability is often dependent on driver density and demand, which can be unpredictable in a rural area.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, offer a more reliable option for individuals requiring assistance. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, but their availability and cost can vary.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources. The financial burden of healthcare transportation can exacerbate the challenges faced by patients undergoing lung cancer treatment. The accessibility of these services, both in terms of availability and affordability, is, therefore, a crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Lung Cancer Score for Coal Township (17866) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While drive times to hospitals are relatively manageable, the limitations of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation create significant challenges for many residents.

For individuals considering moving to Coal Township, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Personal vehicle ownership is almost essential for convenient access to specialized care.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the presence of medical facilities; it is about the ability of individuals to reach those facilities in a timely and reliable manner. Further investment in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the provision of affordable medical transportation options would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score for Coal Township, ensuring that all residents have a fair chance at receiving the care they need.