17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.48 percent of residents in 17948 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 9.19 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mahanoy City (ZIP Code 17948)

The air in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, whispers tales of coal and resilience. Nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, this borough (ZIP code 17948) faces unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the ease of transportation to essential medical services, a critical factor in survival and quality of life. Considering a move to Mahanoy City? This analysis will help you understand the realities of healthcare access in this community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be determined by analyzing the transportation infrastructure available to residents, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the accessibility landscape, offering insights for individuals needing regular medical appointments, treatments, and emergency care.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Mahanoy City. The town is strategically positioned near major roadways, yet distances to specialized lung cancer care can be significant. The primary arteries are Pennsylvania Route 54, which traverses the borough, and U.S. Route 209, a vital north-south corridor. Heading east on Route 54, the drive to Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, a facility offering comprehensive cancer care, is approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves a combination of Route 54 and Interstate 81, which can experience congestion during peak hours.

Traveling west on Route 54 leads to the Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill in Pottsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. This hospital offers cancer treatment services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The route involves a combination of Route 54 and local roads. While shorter in distance, traffic on these roads can also impact travel times.

For more specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers. The drive to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, a renowned cancer center, is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, primarily via Interstate 81 South and Interstate 76 East. This lengthy commute underscores the importance of local and regional options.

Public transportation options are limited in Mahanoy City, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but routes and schedules may not be ideal for medical appointments. The primary route serving Mahanoy City is Route 45, which travels between Pottsville and Hazleton, with stops in Mahanoy City. This route operates on weekdays and Saturdays, with limited Sunday service.

Accessibility features on STS buses, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are available to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the frequency of service and the potential for transfers can significantly extend travel times. A round trip to Pottsville for an appointment could easily consume several hours, making it a less-than-ideal option for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mahanoy City, but their availability and reliability can vary. Demand may be lower in this rural area compared to larger cities, potentially leading to longer wait times or surge pricing during peak hours. These services can provide a valuable alternative for those unable to drive or use public transit, but their cost can be a significant barrier for some.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a specialized option for individuals requiring assistance. Several providers operate in the region, including companies like Care Ride and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and prior authorization may be necessary, and the cost can vary depending on insurance coverage.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mahanoy City reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of local hospitals offering cancer treatment services is a positive factor, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The potential for long drive times to specialized care centers further impacts the overall score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides some flexibility, but their cost and availability may be limiting factors. For individuals considering a move to Mahanoy City, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is crucial. Planning for potential long drives, exploring the availability of ride-sharing services, and understanding the limitations of public transit are essential steps.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static metric; it is a dynamic assessment that can change based on evolving healthcare services and transportation infrastructure. Improvements in public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of local cancer care options would significantly enhance the score and improve healthcare access for residents.

In conclusion, while Mahanoy City offers certain advantages, the accessibility of healthcare, especially for lung cancer patients, presents specific challenges. The reliance on personal transportation, the limited public transit, and the potential for long drives to specialized care centers warrant careful consideration. For those contemplating a move to Mahanoy City, a proactive approach to healthcare access, including understanding transportation options and planning for potential challenges, is paramount. The journey to healthcare is as vital as the care itself, and in Mahanoy City, navigating this journey requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the local landscape.