17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.15 percent of residents in 17931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Frackville, PA (ZIP Code 17931)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Frackville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17931), the journey to specialized care is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical facilities, specifically those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. It considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This information is particularly pertinent for individuals considering moving to Frackville, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and potentially life-saving care.

The primary concern for residents is the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers. While Frackville itself might not house such facilities, the surrounding areas offer options, making transportation a vital link. The drive-time assessment focuses on the major hospitals and cancer centers within a reasonable radius, factoring in peak traffic conditions and the potential for unforeseen delays.

For those with personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 81 (I-81) and Route 61. Heading north on I-81 provides access to hospitals in Scranton, while south-bound travel connects to facilities in Reading and Allentown. Route 61, a more direct route, offers access to facilities in Pottsville and beyond. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and late afternoons, traffic congestion on both I-81 and Route 61 can significantly extend travel times. A typical drive to a major cancer center in Allentown, for instance, could range from one hour and fifteen minutes to two hours, depending on traffic flow. Similarly, a trip to Scranton could take upwards of two hours, depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

Public transportation options in Frackville and the surrounding areas are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but routes are often infrequent and may not directly serve major hospitals or cancer centers. STS Route 30, for example, travels through Frackville, but its schedule might not align with appointment times or treatment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other accommodations for individuals with disabilities, is a crucial factor. While STS strives to provide accessible services, the frequency and reliability of these features should be carefully assessed.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability and cost can vary. While these services may be readily available in larger metropolitan areas, their presence in Frackville might be less consistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share trip to a distant hospital could also be a significant financial burden for patients and their families.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare often contract with insurance providers and offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability of these services and the eligibility criteria can vary depending on the patient's insurance coverage and medical needs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the impact of weather conditions on transportation. Winter storms, in particular, can significantly impede travel, increasing drive times and potentially disrupting public transit schedules. The hilly terrain of the region can also make travel more challenging, especially for those with mobility limitations. Therefore, residents must be prepared for potential delays and disruptions, and consider alternative transportation options when necessary.

Beyond the physical journey, the "Lung Cancer Score" also evaluates the ease of accessing information about healthcare providers and transportation options. Online resources, such as hospital websites and transportation service directories, play a crucial role in helping patients plan their trips. The availability of clear and concise information, including maps, directions, and contact information, is essential for navigating the healthcare system.

For individuals considering moving to Frackville, the availability of healthcare access is a critical factor. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the transportation challenges and opportunities associated with receiving specialized lung cancer care. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences, and consider the potential impact of travel times, public transit limitations, and ride-sharing availability.

The ultimate goal of this "Lung Cancer Score" is to empower residents of Frackville with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the transportation landscape and the challenges it presents, individuals can proactively plan for their medical needs and ensure they receive the timely and effective care they deserve. This assessment serves as a starting point for a deeper exploration of healthcare access in the area, encouraging residents to actively engage with healthcare providers, transportation services, and community resources to build a robust support system.