17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17880 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swengel, PA (ZIP Code 17880)

The air hangs crisp and clean in Swengel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17880), a rural haven nestled amidst rolling hills. Yet, the very beauty of this landscape can mask a significant challenge: accessing timely and effective healthcare, especially for those facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, examines the practicalities of transportation and healthcare access for residents of Swengel, offering insights for those considering a move or currently battling this disease. We delve into the realities of navigating the local infrastructure to reach vital medical services, focusing on drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the understanding that **transportation** is inextricably linked to **healthcare access**. For individuals battling lung cancer, the ability to reach appointments, treatments, and support services can profoundly impact their prognosis and quality of life. This is particularly true in a rural setting like Swengel, where distances can be deceiving and options are often limited.

The primary artery for residents of Swengel is Route 192, a winding two-lane road that connects the community to larger towns and cities. Heading east on Route 192, the drive to Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a key healthcare provider, is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive, though manageable, becomes a significant undertaking for those experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or undergoing chemotherapy.

Further afield, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a comprehensive cancer center, is accessible via Route 192 East to Route 15 North, a journey of roughly 45-60 minutes. This longer drive, while offering access to specialized care, necessitates careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical capabilities. The route includes stretches of highway, offering a smoother ride, but also potential for traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

Westbound on Route 192, the drive to the nearest urgent care facilities in Mifflinburg is around 15 minutes. However, these facilities may not offer the specialized care required for lung cancer treatment.

Public **transportation** options in Swengel are limited. The local Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) operates bus routes, but service to Swengel is infrequent, and schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with mobility limitations must be considered. While SVTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, the limited frequency of service makes them a less-than-ideal option for many patients. The lack of a dedicated bus route directly serving the major healthcare providers in Lewisburg and Danville further compounds the challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride at short notice for a doctor's appointment or a treatment session may prove difficult, especially for those who do not have access to a smartphone or a reliable internet connection. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients facing the financial strain of cancer treatment.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private medical transport providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required. Furthermore, the availability of medical transport services can be limited, particularly for those with specific insurance plans or those requiring specialized medical equipment during transport.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Swengel, therefore, reflects the challenges inherent in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. While the drive times to key medical facilities are relatively manageable, the limited public **transportation** options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation** create significant barriers for patients.

For individuals considering **moving to Swengel**, or for current residents navigating a lung cancer diagnosis, a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** needs is crucial. This includes evaluating the patient's physical capabilities, the frequency of medical appointments, and the availability of support networks.

The availability of family members or friends to provide transportation is a significant factor. The ability to rely on a personal vehicle is also crucial, as it provides the most flexibility and control over travel schedules.

Planning and preparation are key. Scheduling appointments in advance, coordinating transportation with family or friends, and exploring the availability of medical **transportation** services can help mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare.

Furthermore, exploring the possibility of telehealth appointments, where appropriate, can reduce the need for frequent travel.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for understanding the realities of healthcare access in Swengel. It highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive communication, and a willingness to seek out available resources. For those battling lung cancer, the journey to recovery is already arduous. Removing the obstacles of **transportation** can make a significant difference in their ability to receive the care they need and deserve. The score emphasizes the importance of considering the practicalities of **healthcare access** when making decisions about where to live and how to navigate the challenges of a serious illness.