17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.83 percent of residents in 17943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 11.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lavelle (ZIP Code 17943)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is fraught with anxiety. The physical act of getting to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care adds another layer of complexity. This report, a “Lung Cancer Score,” analyzes the transportation landscape in Lavelle, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17943), a small community nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County. It aims to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access, considering the unique challenges of rural transportation. This assessment will be crucial for individuals considering moving to Lavelle, already residing there, or seeking healthcare within the area.

Lavelle, a small village, is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests. This geographical isolation directly impacts **transportation** options. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are Pennsylvania Route 901 and Pennsylvania Route 54. Route 901, a winding two-lane road, connects Lavelle to larger towns like Ashland and Frackville. Route 54 provides access to Interstate 81, a major north-south highway, offering links to larger cities and specialized medical centers. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's familiarity with the roads.

The closest hospitals are located in Ashland (approximately 10 minutes by car), Pottsville (approximately 30 minutes), and Bloomsburg (approximately 1 hour). These drive times are estimates and could increase significantly during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice, common in the region during winter. The condition of the roads, particularly Route 901, can deteriorate rapidly, impacting travel.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Lavelle. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the frequency of routes serving Lavelle is low, and the schedules may not align with medical appointments. The STS route 301, for example, might offer some service, but its availability is limited, especially on weekends and evenings. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a critical factor. While STS strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the routes and schedules may not always be convenient or practical for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and mobility issues. The lack of sidewalks and accessible infrastructure in Lavelle further complicates the use of public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Schuylkill County area, but their presence is not consistent. Availability depends on driver density, which is lower in rural areas like Lavelle. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients, as the expense of multiple trips for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care can quickly accumulate.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like LifeFleet and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides in wheelchair-accessible vehicles, providing door-to-door service. However, these services require prior arrangements, and the cost can be substantial, often not fully covered by insurance. The availability of these services in Lavelle and the surrounding areas should be verified.

Considering the challenges, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Lavelle reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, making it difficult for those without a car or unable to drive. Public **transportation** is limited and may not be a viable option for many patients. Ride-sharing services have inconsistent availability, and medical **transportation** services, while offering specialized support, can be costly.

For individuals considering moving to Lavelle and those already residing there, a thorough assessment of **transportation** needs is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of family or friends to provide rides, the feasibility of utilizing public **transportation**, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

The proximity to Ashland, with its healthcare facilities, offers a degree of convenience, but the reliance on Route 901 for access presents potential challenges. The longer drive times to Pottsville and Bloomsburg, where more specialized cancer care may be available, further complicate **healthcare access**.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be continuously reevaluated. Factors such as the patient's physical condition, treatment schedule, and financial resources will significantly impact their ability to access healthcare.

The lack of a dedicated cancer center within close proximity to Lavelle necessitates careful planning and consideration of **transportation** logistics. Patients should proactively explore all available options, including seeking assistance from social workers, patient navigators, and support groups.

The decision to move to Lavelle, or remain there, requires a comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. The challenges associated with getting to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care must be carefully weighed against the benefits of living in a small, rural community.

The “Lung Cancer Score” underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the complexities of **healthcare access** in Lavelle. It highlights the need for individuals to advocate for themselves and seek out the support they need to ensure they receive timely and effective care. The journey to recovery from lung cancer is challenging enough; the added burden of **transportation** should not become an insurmountable obstacle. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Lavelle, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the healthcare they need, when they need it.