18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.92 percent of residents in 18013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital - Monroe Campus with a distance of 8.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Accessing Care in Bangor, PA (ZIP Code 18013)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, a journey demanding not just medical expertise but also seamless access to care. For residents of Bangor, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18013), understanding the nuances of **transportation** options is crucial. This report analyzes the **healthcare access** landscape, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to gauge the ease of reaching vital medical services. This is especially pertinent for individuals **moving to Bangor**, needing to understand their new environment.

Bangor, nestled in the Slate Belt, presents a unique geographical challenge. While offering a close-knit community feel, its location necessitates careful consideration of travel times and available resources. Our score reflects the efficiency with which residents can reach critical diagnostic and treatment facilities.

**The Score:**

We've assigned a preliminary Lung Cancer Score of **7.5 out of 10** for ZIP Code 18013. This score considers drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation methods. While Bangor offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, improvements in public transit and expanded ride-share options could significantly enhance this score.

**Driving Directions: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many Bangor residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The key arteries for reaching specialized lung cancer care are Interstate 80 (I-80), Route 33, and Route 512. The proximity to these major roadways significantly impacts access to healthcare.

To reach St. Luke's University Hospital – Anderson Campus, a leading cancer treatment center, residents typically travel south on Route 512. The drive is generally under 20 minutes, offering relatively quick access. This campus provides comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy and surgical oncology.

For more specialized services, such as those offered at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Muhlenberg, the journey involves navigating Route 512 and then connecting to Route 22 East. This drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic imaging and a dedicated oncology department.

The drive to larger facilities in Philadelphia, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, is significantly longer. This journey, requiring a connection to I-78 East, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, making it less practical for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public **transportation** options in Bangor are limited, but not entirely absent. LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority) provides bus service, though routes and frequency are less extensive compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Route 214, a key LANTA route, connects Bangor to Easton and other surrounding communities. However, this route's frequency is limited, with buses running typically every hour or two. This can make it challenging for timely appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. LANTA buses are equipped with features like ramps and wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited route coverage and potential for longer travel times can still pose difficulties.

The availability of public **transportation** is a crucial factor for those who may not be able to drive themselves, especially during treatment when fatigue is a common side effect. Expanding LANTA's service, including more frequent routes and connections to major healthcare facilities, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for Bangor residents.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, availability in Bangor can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide a valuable service. These companies offer non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) operate in the region, offering a range of services.

These services are particularly crucial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where driving may be unsafe or impractical. While these services provide a vital lifeline, their cost can be a significant consideration for some individuals.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the Lung Cancer Score and improve **healthcare access** in Bangor, several key areas require attention.

Firstly, expanding LANTA's service area and increasing route frequency would provide a more reliable and accessible public **transportation** option. This could involve extending existing routes or establishing new ones to connect Bangor directly to major healthcare facilities.

Secondly, promoting awareness of available ride-share services and medical **transportation** options is critical. This could involve collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and **transportation** companies to educate residents about available resources.

Finally, exploring potential partnerships between healthcare facilities and **transportation** providers could streamline the process of arranging and paying for patient transport. This could involve discounted rates or integrated booking systems, making it easier for patients to access the care they need.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

For residents of Bangor (ZIP Code 18013), accessing lung cancer care requires careful planning. While drive times to nearby facilities are generally manageable, the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential cost of ride-share or medical **transportation** services present challenges.

Our Lung Cancer Score of 7.5 reflects the existing level of **healthcare access**, acknowledging the need for continued improvement. By focusing on expanding public **transportation**, increasing awareness of alternative options, and fostering collaborations between healthcare providers and **transportation** companies, Bangor can further enhance its ability to support individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer. For those **moving to Bangor**, understanding these factors is crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape and ensuring access to timely and effective care.