17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.65 percent of residents in 17881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17881)**

The air in Trevorton, Pennsylvania, whispers of coal dust and the echoes of a bygone industrial era. Nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, this close-knit community faces a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those battling the insidious threat of lung cancer. Understanding these challenges is paramount, and this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17881, considering the critical element of transportation. This score will illuminate the complexities of getting vital medical care, offering a crucial lens for anyone considering moving to Trevorton or for residents seeking improved healthcare options.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Trevorton is interwoven with the limitations of its transportation infrastructure. The nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers, equipped with specialized oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgical capabilities, are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. This geographical reality significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as the ability to reach these centers quickly and reliably is directly tied to patient outcomes.

Driving, the primary mode of transportation for most residents, presents its own set of hurdles. From Trevorton, a journey to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, involves navigating approximately 40 miles. The most direct route typically utilizes **Pennsylvania Route 125** south to **Interstate 80** east, then transitioning to **US Route 11** south. This drive, under ideal conditions, can take around an hour. However, traffic, weather, and the occasional road closure can easily extend this commute, adding stress and potentially delaying critical treatment.

Alternatively, a trip to UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, another potential treatment center, requires a drive of about 50 miles. This route often involves **Pennsylvania Route 125** north to **US Route 11** north, then to **Interstate 180** west. This journey, too, is subject to the same transportation variables, potentially consuming over an hour and fifteen minutes of travel time.

The availability of public transit is limited in Trevorton. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides some bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve local needs. The NCTA does offer a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical appointments. Furthermore, the accessibility of these services for individuals with mobility limitations, including those undergoing cancer treatment, needs careful consideration. The availability of ADA-compliant buses and the ease of boarding and disembarking are critical factors that influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Trevorton is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or emergency situations is inherently risky. The cost of these services can also become a significant financial burden for patients, further impacting their ability to access care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Companies like LifeStar Ambulance and other non-emergency medical transportation providers operate in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services come with a cost, and the availability of insurance coverage varies. The Lung Cancer Score must factor in the financial accessibility of these essential services.

The challenges of transportation are further compounded by the emotional and physical toll of a lung cancer diagnosis. Patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other debilitating symptoms. The prospect of a long, arduous journey to receive treatment can be overwhelming. The stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, dealing with traffic, and coordinating transportation adds to the burden, potentially affecting treatment adherence and overall well-being.

The Lung Cancer Score for Trevorton, PA, is therefore significantly influenced by these factors. It is not a simple numerical value but a complex assessment that reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical component of cancer care.

For residents of Trevorton, understanding these challenges is the first step toward advocating for improved healthcare access. This might involve supporting initiatives to expand public transportation options, advocating for increased ride-sharing availability, or lobbying for policies that support medical transportation services.

For those considering moving to Trevorton, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a vital piece of information. It allows prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. They should carefully consider the distance to treatment centers, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential financial implications of accessing care.

The score also highlights the importance of community support. Neighbors, family, and friends can play a crucial role in providing transportation assistance, emotional support, and practical help. Building a strong support network is essential for navigating the challenges of lung cancer treatment in a community like Trevorton.

The Lung Cancer Score for Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17881) is not just a measure of distance and time; it is a reflection of the human experience. It is a call to action, urging us to prioritize healthcare access and ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to fight this devastating disease. It is a reminder that transportation is not just a logistical issue; it is a lifeline, connecting patients to the care they desperately need.