18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.06 percent of residents in 18518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 5.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 18518

The quaint borough of Old Forge, nestled within ZIP Code 18518, presents a unique landscape for those considering a move, particularly when factoring in healthcare access, a critical component of the quality of life. This assessment delves into the intricacies of transportation options, specifically focusing on their impact on individuals seeking lung cancer treatment. Understanding these dynamics is paramount, as timely access to care significantly influences outcomes. This write-up serves as a Lung Cancer Score, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical facilities from the heart of Old Forge.

The primary challenge in assessing healthcare access in 18518 lies in its relative isolation. While the borough offers a charming, close-knit community, it is not directly adjacent to major medical centers. This necessitates reliance on transportation networks, and the efficacy of these networks directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The score will reflect the time and effort required to access specialized care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation for residents of Old Forge. The primary arteries connecting the borough to healthcare facilities are Interstate 81 (I-81) and Interstate 84 (I-84). Accessing these highways is relatively straightforward, typically involving a short drive along local roads like Main Street or Keyser Avenue. The drive to Geisinger Commonwealth Medical College (GCMC) in Scranton, a significant regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive primarily involves navigating local roads to I-81 and then a short trip north.

Further afield, the drive to larger hospitals in Wilkes-Barre, such as Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, necessitates a longer journey. This involves a drive along I-81 south, potentially encountering heavier traffic during peak hours. The total drive time can range from 30 to 45 minutes. The condition of these highways, including the potential for construction delays or inclement weather, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Delays, especially for patients undergoing treatment, can cause undue stress and potentially impact the effectiveness of care.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex picture. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the region. However, direct routes from Old Forge to major medical facilities are limited. Passengers often need to transfer buses, increasing travel time and complexity. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access care. Confirming ADA compliance is essential.

The specific bus routes relevant to accessing healthcare from Old Forge are subject to change. Currently, residents might utilize routes that connect to Scranton, where they could then transfer to a bus serving a hospital. Travel times can vary significantly, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on the specific route and transfer times. This extended travel time significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score for those relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative. Their availability in Old Forge and surrounding areas is generally good, providing a convenient option for accessing healthcare. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the financial burden associated with this transportation method. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is also a critical consideration.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are another option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be a valuable resource, particularly for patients who lack other transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score must assess the availability of these services, the eligibility requirements, and the potential waiting times for scheduling rides.

The availability of these services, and their integration with the healthcare system, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Coordinating transportation with medical appointments is crucial for ensuring timely access to care. Delays or difficulties in securing transportation can lead to missed appointments, treatment interruptions, and increased stress for patients.

The Lung Cancer Score for 18518 is therefore a nuanced assessment. While Old Forge benefits from relatively quick access to regional hospitals via private transportation, the reliance on highways and the potential for traffic congestion pose a challenge. Public transportation options are less efficient, and ride-sharing costs can be a barrier. Medical transportation services offer a crucial safety net, but their availability and eligibility criteria must be carefully considered.

The score must also consider the patient's individual needs. For instance, a patient undergoing daily radiation therapy will require more frequent and reliable transportation than a patient receiving chemotherapy every few weeks. The Lung Cancer Score should not only evaluate the available transportation options but also the accessibility of support services that assist patients with their transportation needs.

Moving to Old Forge, while offering the charm of a small town, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment of the transportation landscape. It is a tool to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare, considering the realities of travel times, transportation costs, and the availability of support services. This assessment provides a comprehensive overview, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of healthcare access in 18518.