18245, Quakake, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18245, Quakake, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.10 percent of residents in 18245 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Quakake (ZIP Code 18245)

The crisp mountain air of Quakake, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18245), offers a tranquil escape, a haven for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, the serenity of this rural community can be juxtaposed with the complexities of accessing specialized healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This analysis assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of 18245, focusing on the critical element of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. We'll examine the realities of getting to crucial medical appointments, considering the various **transportation** options available and the challenges they present. This is especially relevant for those considering **moving to Quakake**, offering a clear picture of what to expect.

The primary challenge for residents of 18245 is its geographic isolation. Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Quakake is a drive-dependent community. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in larger towns and cities, requiring significant travel time. This distance, coupled with potential physical limitations stemming from a lung cancer diagnosis, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The most common mode of **transportation** for medical appointments is personal vehicle. From Quakake, the most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating a network of highways and roads. A trip to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown, a major cancer treatment center, necessitates a drive of approximately 60-75 miles, depending on the exact location within 18245. This journey typically involves taking **Route 93** south, connecting to **Interstate 80** east, then transferring to **Route 309** south. The drive, even in ideal conditions, can take between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this travel time. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can pose additional challenges.

Another option is Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a journey of approximately 75-85 miles. This route often involves heading west on **Interstate 80**, requiring a drive of between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, again depending on traffic and weather. These long drive times, coupled with the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis, can lead to appointment delays or missed appointments, impacting the patient's prognosis.

Public **transportation** options are limited in 18245 and the surrounding areas. There is no direct bus service that connects Quakake to major medical centers. The nearest public transit hub is in Hazleton, approximately 15-20 minutes away by car. From Hazleton, Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus routes, but these routes primarily serve local communities and do not offer direct access to the major cancer treatment facilities. The LCTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, offering a crucial service for those with mobility limitations. However, the multiple transfers and long travel times associated with using public **transportation** for medical appointments make it a less viable option for many residents of 18245.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Quakake is variable. While these services may be available, their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. The cost of a ride to Allentown or Danville can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments. Moreover, the availability of drivers in a rural area like 18245 is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the **transportation** equation.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients who require assistance with their appointments. Several companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation** in the region, including Liberty Medical Transport and American Medical Response. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, especially during peak times. The need to book these services in advance requires careful planning and coordination, adding to the burden on patients and their families.

For individuals with lung cancer, the challenges of **transportation** are amplified. Fatigue, shortness of breath, and other side effects of treatment can make driving or navigating public **transportation** extremely difficult. The need for frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care necessitates a reliable and accessible **transportation** system. The lack of convenient **healthcare access** in 18245 can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting survival rates and quality of life.

For those considering **moving to Quakake**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options is crucial. The remoteness of the area and the limited public **transportation** options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternative services. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially those with lung cancer or at risk of developing it, should carefully consider the implications of limited **healthcare access** before making a move. The long travel times to medical facilities can create significant stress and financial burdens.

The Lung Cancer Score for 18245 is, therefore, negatively impacted by the lack of accessible and affordable **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation**, and the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services contribute to a lower score. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely and comprehensive cancer care.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score for 18245 requires a multi-pronged approach. This could involve exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers to offer discounted rates or subsidized services. Encouraging the expansion of telemedicine services could reduce the need for frequent in-person appointments. Investing in public **transportation** infrastructure, such as establishing a shuttle service connecting Quakake to nearby medical centers, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Community initiatives to support carpooling or volunteer driver programs could also alleviate some of the **transportation** burdens.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 18245 highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the beauty and tranquility of Quakake are undeniable, the challenges of accessing specialized medical care, particularly for those battling lung cancer, cannot be ignored. Prospective residents and current inhabitants must carefully consider the **transportation** landscape and its impact on their ability to receive timely and effective care. The need for improved **transportation** solutions is paramount to ensuring that residents of Quakake have the same opportunities for health and well-being as those living in more accessible communities. This information is vital for anyone **moving to Quakake**, offering a realistic perspective on the healthcare environment.