17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.35 percent of residents in 17935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Girardville (ZIP Code 17935)

The air in Girardville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17935), whispers tales of anthracite coal, a history etched into the very landscape. But beyond the legacy of industry lies a modern reality: the pressing need for accessible healthcare, particularly for a disease like lung cancer, where early detection and swift treatment are paramount. This write-up aims to assess the ease of access to lung cancer-related healthcare services, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" based on transportation options available to residents. The score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare access for those living and potentially moving to Girardville.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that timely access to medical care is crucial in the fight against lung cancer. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact survival rates and quality of life. Therefore, our "Lung Cancer Score" will prioritize the speed and reliability of transportation options.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

Girardville's location in Schuylkill County presents both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary advantage is the relatively straightforward access to major roadways. However, the rural nature of the area dictates that residents often rely on personal vehicles.

The nearest major medical facilities offering comprehensive lung cancer care are located in Pottsville, approximately 10 miles away. The drive, primarily via **Route 54** and **Route 61**, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time represents a moderate level of accessibility.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Reading (approximately 50 miles) or Allentown (approximately 75 miles). The journey to Reading involves navigating **Interstate 81** to **Route 61** and then **Route 222**. This drive could take up to an hour and a half, significantly impacting healthcare access. Allentown requires a longer trip, utilizing **Interstate 81** to **Interstate 78**, potentially taking up to two hours. This longer travel time poses a considerable challenge for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing debilitating symptoms.

The quality of these roadways is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to essential medical appointments. This weather factor adds another layer of complexity to the assessment of healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Girardville are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns in the county. There is no direct bus route to any of the major hospitals offering lung cancer care in Pottsville, Reading, or Allentown.

The lack of robust public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles. The absence of convenient and reliable public transit negatively impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Furthermore, the STS buses may not all be fully ADA-compliant, potentially creating accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. This lack of ADA-compliant features further restricts healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Girardville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, especially those requiring frequent appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing services adds an element of uncertainty to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for patients who need assistance with transportation. These services often include door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited.

The availability of medical transportation services adds a positive element to the "Lung Cancer Score," but the associated costs and potential limitations must be considered.

**Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score":**

Considering all factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Girardville (ZIP Code 17935) presents a mixed picture. The relatively short drive to Pottsville for basic care is a positive factor. However, the longer travel times to specialized facilities in Reading and Allentown, coupled with the limited public transportation options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing, create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The lack of reliable public transportation and the potential financial burden of ride-sharing and medical transport services are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Girardville:**

For individuals considering moving to Girardville, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. Those with pre-existing lung conditions or those at high risk for lung cancer should carefully evaluate the transportation options and potential costs associated with accessing medical care.

It is crucial to research the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services in the area. Inquire about the frequency and reliability of these services, as well as the associated costs.

Individuals who are unable to drive or who have mobility limitations should prioritize living close to a family member or friend who can provide transportation support.

Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times and plan accordingly.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Girardville reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the proximity to Pottsville offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but the associated costs and uncertainties must be carefully considered.

Ultimately, individuals moving to Girardville, or those already residing there, must proactively plan for their healthcare transportation needs, understanding the potential barriers and seeking out the most reliable and affordable options available. The ability to navigate these challenges is critical for ensuring timely access to lung cancer care and improving health outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible transportation in the fight against this devastating disease.