18451, Paupack, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18451, Paupack, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.56 percent of residents in 18451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.47 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 18451

The crisp mountain air of Paupack, Pennsylvania, in ZIP Code 18451, offers a bucolic charm that draws many seeking a tranquil lifestyle. However, the allure of this serene landscape must be tempered with a pragmatic understanding of healthcare access, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, formulating a "Lung Cancer Score" that considers drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing options, all critical factors when facing a potential diagnosis and treatment.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a definitive medical assessment. Instead, it is a gauge of the challenges and opportunities regarding transportation to and from healthcare facilities. It considers the specific needs of individuals potentially facing lung cancer, including frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care. The score reflects the realities of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 18451, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges of accessing potentially life-saving care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents of Paupack, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting 18451 to regional healthcare facilities is Route 6, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on Route 6, one can reach Scranton, the largest city in the region, within approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Scranton houses major hospitals like Geisinger Commonwealth Health System and Moses Taylor Hospital, both offering comprehensive cancer care.

Heading west on Route 6 offers access to Honesdale, the county seat, and Wayne Memorial Hospital, a smaller facility that may provide some initial diagnostic services and supportive care. The drive to Honesdale is relatively short, typically 15-20 minutes. However, it is crucial to remember that Wayne Memorial might not offer the full spectrum of lung cancer treatment options, potentially requiring travel to Scranton or further.

Other roads, such as Route 590, Route 390, and local roads, provide alternative routes, but they often involve slower travel times and may be subject to seasonal conditions like snow and ice. These conditions can significantly impact accessibility, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that can compromise their immune systems.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Hurdles**

Public transportation options in 18451 are exceedingly limited. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a considerable challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA). However, the WCTA's routes are limited and primarily serve Honesdale and surrounding areas.

The WCTA offers demand-response service, which requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent appointments. Furthermore, the service may not extend to Scranton or other major healthcare hubs, further restricting healthcare access. Individuals requiring dialysis or chemotherapy may find this a major barrier to treatment.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While the WCTA strives to provide accessible services, availability may vary. The limited scope of the public transit system underscores the importance of exploring all available transportation options, especially for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Scranton area, offering a potential solution for those unable to drive or lacking access to public transportation. However, the availability of these services in 18451 can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for individuals facing frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized options for individuals with specific medical needs. These services are often equipped to transport patients with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior authorization from insurance companies is often required.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region. These providers offer varying levels of service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. Researching and securing a reliable medical transport provider is essential for those who require assistance with transportation to and from healthcare appointments.

**Moving to Paupack: A Healthcare Access Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Paupack (18451), the limitations of healthcare access should be a significant factor in their decision. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the lack of readily available transportation options to healthcare facilities presents a challenge, especially for those with existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer.

Before relocating, potential residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare services in the region, including the proximity of cancer treatment centers, the availability of specialists, and the transportation options to those facilities. Exploring the local transportation landscape, including ride-sharing availability and medical transport providers, is crucial.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for 18451 can be assessed as **Moderate-Challenging**. This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with travel times to major healthcare facilities in Scranton averaging 45 minutes to an hour.
* **Public Transit:** Limited, with restricted routes and demand-response service.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable availability and potential cost considerations.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but potentially costly and requiring prior planning.

This score highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access for individuals in 18451, particularly those concerned about lung cancer. This may involve securing reliable transportation options, establishing relationships with healthcare providers, and exploring available resources to mitigate the challenges of healthcare access in this beautiful but geographically isolated area.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment. It can be improved by advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring that medical transport services are readily accessible and affordable. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of 18451 have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.