18602, Bear Creek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18602, Bear Creek, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.17 percent of residents in 18602 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center with a distance of 5.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18602

The crisp air of Bear Creek, Pennsylvania, in ZIP code 18602, offers a picturesque setting, a haven for those seeking respite. However, the serenity of this mountainous region presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a serious diagnosis like lung cancer. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options, focusing on transportation realities, a crucial factor in determining a patient's Lung Cancer Score.

The score reflects the ease with which a resident of 18602 can reach essential medical services, including diagnostic imaging, oncology consultations, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options, all weighed against the physical and emotional toll a lung cancer diagnosis can inflict. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Destinations**

The primary arteries connecting Bear Creek to specialized healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 940 (PA-940) and Interstate 80 (I-80). PA-940, a winding two-lane road, serves as the main thoroughfare, offering scenic views but also presenting potential delays due to weather or traffic, especially during peak seasons. I-80, a major east-west highway, provides faster access to larger medical centers, but its distance necessitates longer travel times.

For diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, patients in 18602 typically travel to facilities in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton. The drive to Wilkes-Barre, via PA-940 and then PA-309, averages around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Scranton, accessible via I-80 East and then I-81 North, is a slightly longer journey, taking approximately 45-60 minutes. These times are crucial, as timely diagnosis is paramount in lung cancer treatment.

Oncology consultations and chemotherapy treatments are often available at the same facilities offering diagnostic imaging. Therefore, the drive times remain consistent. Radiation therapy, a specialized treatment, may necessitate travel to facilities with advanced equipment. The Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and the Regional Hospital of Scranton are two primary options.

Surgical interventions, including lung resections, are typically performed at hospitals with comprehensive surgical capabilities. Again, the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and the Regional Hospital of Scranton are likely destinations. The travel times, as mentioned previously, are significant, underscoring the importance of reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 18602 are severely limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes primarily serve the Wilkes-Barre area. There are no direct routes connecting Bear Creek to major medical centers. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of readily available public transit poses a considerable challenge for patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which often require frequent appointments. The LCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, but the need for multiple transfers and lengthy travel times makes this option impractical for many.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bear Creek area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, adding a financial burden to the already significant expenses associated with cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized option for patients who require assistance. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical transportation, often covering the cost for eligible patients. These services typically require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding distance and availability.

These services are critical for individuals unable to drive themselves or rely on family or friends. However, their availability and reliability are crucial factors in determining a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan.

**Moving to Bear Creek: Considering Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Bear Creek, the accessibility of healthcare should be a paramount concern. The beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, but the limitations in transportation and the distance to specialized medical facilities must be carefully weighed.

Prospective residents should research the availability of medical services in the area, including the proximity of hospitals, oncology centers, and diagnostic imaging facilities. They should also consider their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The Lung Cancer Score for 18602 reflects a complex reality. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges in accessing healthcare are significant. This assessment aims to illuminate these realities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and their future in Bear Creek. The score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the practical hurdles faced by those battling lung cancer in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.