18225, Harleigh, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18225, Harleigh, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 18225 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 2.26 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 18225**

The air hangs heavy with the scent of coal and pine in Harleigh, Pennsylvania, a community nestled within the 18225 ZIP code. For residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to healthcare becomes a critical component of their survival. Understanding the intricacies of transportation within and beyond this area is paramount, shaping the Lung Cancer Score, a measure of healthcare access. This score weighs the availability and efficiency of transportation options, recognizing that time is a precious commodity when battling this disease.

The first hurdle often involves getting to the nearest medical facilities. Geographically, the landscape presents challenges. The rolling hills and winding roads that define the region can make travel difficult, particularly for those weakened by illness or limited mobility. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, focusing on drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation. From Harleigh, the primary route to larger hospitals and oncology centers involves navigating the local roadways. Accessing the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a major regional healthcare provider, requires a drive primarily via Interstate 81 North. The journey, typically spanning around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, can be a significant challenge for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The drive is often complicated by the need to navigate through Pottsville Pike and the local roads of Wilkes-Barre.

Another key destination is the Lehigh Valley Hospital–Hazleton, which can be reached via Route 924 and Interstate 80 East. This trip is generally shorter, approximately 20-30 minutes. However, the road conditions and traffic flow can vary, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. These factors are carefully considered when calculating the Lung Cancer Score.

Public transportation options, while present, are limited in Harleigh. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent, and schedules may not align with medical appointments. For example, the LCTA Route 18, which serves the Hazleton area, might offer a potential connection. However, it lacks direct service to many of the major medical facilities. Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the availability of ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize these services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative. However, their availability in rural areas like Harleigh can be inconsistent. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the reliability of these services, considering factors such as wait times, driver availability, and cost. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare often contract with insurance providers, potentially covering the cost of transportation. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of these services, their coverage area, and the ease of scheduling.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the impact of the patient's condition on their ability to travel. For patients undergoing treatment, the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation can make driving or using public transportation difficult. The score evaluates the availability of support services, such as family and friends, who can provide transportation assistance. It also considers the availability of resources for patients who are unable to drive, such as volunteer driver programs.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to supporting its residents. It highlights the need for improved transportation options, increased public transit accessibility, and the expansion of medical transportation services. The score serves as a guide for patients, helping them to understand the challenges they may face in accessing healthcare.

For someone considering moving to Harleigh, the Lung Cancer Score becomes a crucial factor in their decision-making process. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk need to carefully assess the transportation landscape. They must consider the drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing services. The score empowers prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic metric, constantly evolving as new transportation options emerge and existing services adapt. The score is updated regularly to reflect changes in infrastructure, service availability, and patient needs. It is a tool for advocacy, highlighting areas where improvements are needed and providing data to support initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare access.

The journey to healthcare in Harleigh, and the surrounding areas, can be a difficult one. The Lung Cancer Score aims to make this journey a little easier, providing clarity and guidance to those facing the challenges of lung cancer. It is a testament to the community's commitment to ensuring that every resident has access to the care they need. The score serves as a call to action, encouraging collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment where patients can focus on their recovery, knowing that their transportation needs are being met.