18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 18224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.83 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)**

The air in Freeland, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Luzerne County, is crisp, carrying the scent of pine and the whisper of history. But for residents, especially those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to healthcare is a crucial factor in their fight. This Lung Cancer Score delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 18224, assessing the accessibility of vital medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all elements that directly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

The primary concern is the distance to comprehensive cancer treatment facilities. The closest hospitals equipped to handle complex lung cancer cases are not within Freeland's immediate vicinity. The Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a renowned facility, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. The route typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 940, a winding road that can experience congestion, especially during peak hours. This route is the most direct, but it is not always the fastest.

Alternatively, patients might consider the drive to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton, a slightly closer option, roughly a 15- to 25-minute drive. This journey involves using PA-940 East and then connecting to Interstate 81 South. While the interstate offers higher speeds, traffic incidents can cause significant delays. The choice between these two facilities, and the associated travel times, can significantly impact a patient's treatment plan, especially concerning chemotherapy or radiation therapy schedules.

Public transportation options in Freeland are limited, creating a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes within Freeland are infrequent and may not directly connect to the major healthcare facilities. Route 18, for instance, might offer some service, but it likely requires transfers and extended travel times to reach the hospitals in Plains Township or Hazleton. ADA-accessible features on LCTA buses are available, offering some relief for individuals with mobility limitations, but the overall lack of frequency and direct routes remains a major barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is generally better in more populated areas, and waiting times in Freeland might be longer than in a city. The cost of these services can quickly become a significant financial burden, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation treatments. This economic factor directly impacts the ability of patients to adhere to their treatment plans.

Medical transport services are an essential resource for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Finding a reliable and affordable medical transport service is crucial for patients in Freeland, but it requires careful research and planning.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Freeland, Pennsylvania, reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. The drive times to hospitals are manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without transportation. Public transit is inadequate, and ride-sharing services can be unreliable and expensive. Medical transport services offer a solution, but their cost and availability are significant considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Freeland, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider. Those with existing health conditions, or who may be at risk for lung cancer, should carefully assess their ability to access medical care. Proximity to major highways and the availability of medical transport services are crucial factors. The quality of life in Freeland is undeniable, but the challenges of healthcare access should be carefully weighed against the benefits of a quieter, more rural existence.

The journey to healthcare for lung cancer patients in Freeland is not a simple one. It requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to navigate the complexities of transportation options. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a matter of life and death, underscoring the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.