17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.08 percent of residents in 17934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gilberton, PA (ZIP Code 17934)

The quest for effective lung cancer care in Gilberton, Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, demands a thorough understanding of its healthcare landscape. This is especially true when considering the critical element of **transportation**. Assessing **healthcare access** within the 17934 ZIP code requires us to evaluate the available modes of travel to medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this formidable disease. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals **moving to Gilberton**, seeking to understand the practical realities of accessing potentially life-saving treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gilberton, in this context, isn't a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by the region's **transportation** infrastructure. It's a critical assessment of how readily and efficiently residents can reach the necessary medical resources, including oncologists, pulmonologists, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialized treatment facilities.

The primary mode of transport for most Gilberton residents is the personal vehicle. The town's location presents both advantages and disadvantages. The primary artery for travel is Interstate 81, which offers relatively quick access to larger medical centers in Pottsville, approximately 15 miles south, and Hazleton, roughly 25 miles east. However, the commute to these locations can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours, and weather conditions common to the region, especially during the winter months.

Accessing the Interstate 81 from Gilberton involves navigating local roads. Route 924 is the main thoroughfare, connecting Gilberton to Frackville and Ashland, both of which offer access to the interstate. Route 54, running north-south, provides an alternate route, though it’s often slower due to its winding nature and potential for congestion in the smaller towns it traverses. Travel times to Pottsville can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Hazleton, a larger city with more extensive medical facilities, could take 30 to 50 minutes.

Public **transportation** options in Gilberton are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the routes serving Gilberton are infrequent, and the schedules may not align well with the needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment, which often require multiple appointments, diagnostic tests, and potentially lengthy treatment sessions. The STS route 30, for instance, might offer some service, but its frequency and potential for transfers could significantly extend travel times.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops in Gilberton and the ease of navigating the local terrain to reach those stops could present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This becomes particularly important for patients experiencing treatment-related side effects, such as fatigue or shortness of breath.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While they offer a potentially convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive, the cost can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments. The limited availability of drivers in rural areas like Gilberton could also lead to longer wait times, potentially adding to the stress and inconvenience of accessing medical care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, represent another option. These services, provided by companies like MedStar and American Medical Response, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with a higher price tag, and insurance coverage may vary. Furthermore, scheduling these services requires advance planning, which might not always be feasible in urgent situations or when treatment schedules are subject to change.

The availability of healthcare facilities directly within Gilberton is limited. Residents typically rely on medical providers located in neighboring towns and cities. This necessitates travel, which underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape. For individuals **moving to Gilberton**, the proximity of these facilities and the ease of access become vital factors in their decision-making process.

The distance to the nearest comprehensive cancer treatment centers is a critical factor. The closest facilities offering specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy, are located in Pottsville and Hazleton. These centers are equipped with multidisciplinary teams of oncologists, nurses, and support staff, providing a full spectrum of care. However, the travel time to these centers can be a significant burden, particularly for patients undergoing daily radiation treatments.

The availability of support services in Gilberton itself is another consideration. Support groups, counseling services, and patient advocacy organizations can provide invaluable assistance to individuals navigating the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. The proximity of these resources and their accessibility via **transportation** are essential for ensuring comprehensive patient care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gilberton, therefore, reflects a nuanced picture. While the presence of Interstate 81 provides relatively quick access to larger medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to **healthcare access**. The financial implications of **transportation** costs, particularly for frequent appointments, must also be considered.

For individuals **moving to Gilberton**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and the availability of support services is essential. Understanding the commute times, the reliability of different modes of travel, and the financial implications of accessing medical care is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Gilberton highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that residents have timely and convenient access to the life-saving care they need.