18420, Fleetville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18420, Fleetville, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.62 percent of residents in 18420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 10.74 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Fleetville, PA (ZIP Code 18420)

Fleetville, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Lackawanna County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. The journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is significantly impacted by transportation options, a critical element in determining a patient’s Lung Cancer Score. This score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents of ZIP code 18420 can access essential healthcare services, a vital factor when considering moving to Fleetville.

The geographical isolation of Fleetville, while offering tranquility, poses challenges to **healthcare access**. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Scranton, approximately 20 miles east, and in Wilkes-Barre, about 40 miles south. This immediately introduces the variable of **transportation**, becoming a pivotal determinant of a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, must consider the practicalities of getting from Fleetville to these critical medical hubs.

For those with personal vehicles, the primary routes to Scranton involve navigating the winding roads. Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers the most direct path, though it can experience delays during peak hours. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Alternatively, travelers can utilize Route 690, which merges with Route 6, offering a slightly longer but potentially less congested option. The journey to Wilkes-Barre necessitates a longer drive, typically taking around an hour, primarily via I-81 South. This interstate offers a more predictable travel time, but the distance remains a significant hurdle.

Public transportation options in Fleetville are limited. Lackawanna County’s COLTS (County of Lackawanna Transit System) provides some service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting towns within the county. There are no direct bus routes from Fleetville to Scranton or Wilkes-Barre. Individuals needing to utilize public transit would likely require multiple transfers, significantly extending the travel time and adding considerable complexity to an already stressful situation. The lack of ADA-accessible features on all buses further exacerbates the challenges for patients with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering a potential alternative. However, their availability in Fleetville can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier, especially for frequent trips to and from medical appointments. This variable, the fluctuating cost and availability, adds another layer to the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transportation, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare operate in the area, providing door-to-door service for individuals with mobility challenges or those who cannot drive themselves. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve co-pays or other out-of-pocket expenses. While offering a more reliable option than ride-sharing, the scheduling requirements and potential costs must be factored into the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of specialized medical transportation is a crucial factor. For patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, the ability to travel safely and comfortably is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score needs to reflect the ease with which these services can be accessed and the financial burden they impose.

Beyond the immediate journey to cancer centers, the availability of local healthcare providers is another crucial consideration. Fleetville itself has limited medical facilities. Primary care physicians, specialists, and diagnostic services may be scarce, necessitating travel to Scranton or Wilkes-Barre for routine check-ups and screenings. This further complicates the **healthcare access** landscape and impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The lack of local resources can lead to delays in diagnosis, potentially impacting the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection is critical in lung cancer, and any barriers to accessing timely screening or diagnostic procedures can significantly affect patient outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, must incorporate the availability of local healthcare options and the ease with which residents can access these services.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond the patient. Family members and caregivers often play a vital role in providing support, including driving patients to appointments and assisting with daily tasks. The time and effort required for **transportation** can place a significant strain on caregivers, potentially impacting their own well-being and ability to provide effective support. This element needs to be considered when evaluating the Lung Cancer Score.

For individuals considering **moving to Fleetville**, understanding the complexities of **healthcare access** is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare services in the area. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer, should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options, the availability of medical services, and the potential financial implications before making a decision.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that considers the interplay of various factors. The score will be influenced by the individual's mobility, financial resources, access to support networks, and the specific type of cancer treatment required. A patient with a personal vehicle and a strong support system will likely have a higher score than someone reliant on public transportation and lacking family assistance.

The Lung Cancer Score also highlights the need for community initiatives to improve **healthcare access** in Fleetville. Increased public transportation options, expanded ride-sharing services, and greater availability of medical transport services could significantly improve the score. The development of local healthcare facilities, including primary care clinics and diagnostic centers, would further enhance the accessibility of care.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Fleetville, PA (ZIP Code 18420) reflects the intricate relationship between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The geographical isolation, limited public transit, and potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant challenges. For those contemplating **moving to Fleetville**, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. The score serves as a critical tool for assessing the ease and efficiency with which residents can navigate the healthcare system, ultimately impacting their ability to receive timely, effective, and compassionate care. The score can be improved through community initiatives and improvements in **transportation** infrastructure.