17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.44 percent of residents in 17979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Station (ZIP Code 17979)

The air in Summit Station, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, whispers of coal and the rolling Appalachian Mountains. But for residents, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the whisper of the wind can be shadowed by the anxieties of healthcare access. This write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** options for individuals residing in ZIP Code 17979, evaluating their impact on the Lung Cancer Score. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking vital treatment. Considering **healthcare access** is crucial, especially when considering **moving to Summit Station**.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a composite assessment reflecting the ease and efficiency with which a patient can reach essential oncology services. Factors like travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of support services are all weighed. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score highlights potential barriers.

For those with lung cancer, time is often of the essence. The ability to quickly reach a specialist, undergo diagnostic tests, and begin treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, proximity to comprehensive cancer care is paramount.

**Driving the Distance:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Summit Station residents is the personal vehicle. The closest major medical centers offering comprehensive oncology services are located in Pottsville, approximately 15 miles east, and Reading, about 45 miles southeast.

Reaching Pottsville, home to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, typically involves a drive of 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The most direct route is via Route 895 East, a winding two-lane highway that can become congested during peak hours. Another option is Route 901 East, which merges with Route 61 South, offering a slightly longer, but often less congested, alternative.

The journey to Reading, where facilities like Reading Hospital are located, presents a greater challenge. The primary route is Route 61 South, a major artery that can experience heavy traffic, particularly around towns like Hamburg and Leesport. The drive time can range from 50 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time adds to the stress and fatigue experienced by patients undergoing treatment, potentially impacting their Lung Cancer Score negatively.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline:**

Public **transportation** options in Summit Station are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns in the county.

Currently, the STS doesn't have direct routes serving Summit Station with frequent access to the medical facilities in Pottsville or Reading. Some routes, like the 301, might offer connections, but these would likely involve multiple transfers and significantly increase travel time, potentially making them impractical for many patients. The STS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, but the limited service frequency presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability in Summit Station is often inconsistent. The demand for these services is lower in rural areas, leading to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This can be a significant challenge for patients who may be experiencing financial constraints or who require immediate **transportation**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. NEMT providers, like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, often contract with insurance companies to provide rides to and from medical appointments. These services typically cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. However, the availability of NEMT services can vary depending on insurance coverage and the specific provider's service area.

**The Lung Cancer Score in Summit Station:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Summit Station residents is moderately concerning. While Pottsville offers relatively quick access to care, the limited public transit and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services can create significant hurdles. The longer drive to Reading, with its more extensive oncology services, further compounds these difficulties.

For individuals considering **moving to Summit Station**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and access to healthcare is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their insurance coverage for medical **transportation**, and the availability of support networks to assist with travel.

The lack of readily available, reliable **transportation** options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to potentially life-saving treatments. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This might include advocating for increased public transit service, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, and ensuring that NEMT services are readily accessible and affordable.

Ultimately, improving the Lung Cancer Score in Summit Station necessitates a commitment to enhancing **healthcare access** through innovative and patient-centered **transportation** solutions. This is not just about getting patients to their appointments; it’s about ensuring they have the opportunity to fight for their lives with dignity and hope.