18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 18619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center Muncy with a distance of 15.47 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hillsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 18619)

The air in Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania, whispers of tranquility. Nestled in the embrace of Sullivan County, this rural haven offers a respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. Yet, beneath the surface of serene landscapes and close-knit communities lies a crucial consideration: **healthcare access**. For those facing the daunting prospect of a lung cancer diagnosis, timely and reliable transportation to specialized medical care becomes paramount. This Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP Code 18619, focusing on the critical element of **healthcare access**.

The journey begins with understanding the geographical realities. Hillsgrove is a sparsely populated area, and the nearest hospitals and oncology centers are located outside the immediate vicinity. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, public transit, or alternative modes of transport for accessing potentially life-saving treatments. The score considers drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking lung cancer care in this rural setting.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways to Recovery**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of **transportation**. Leaving Hillsgrove, the most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the winding roads that define the region. The primary artery is Pennsylvania Route 87, a two-lane highway that meanders through the scenic countryside. Depending on the destination, drivers may need to connect with U.S. Route 220, a more significant thoroughfare that offers faster speeds but potentially greater traffic congestion.

The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for specialized cancer care, typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering approximately 50 to 60 miles. This journey involves navigating PA-87 south, connecting to US-220 south, and then following signs to the medical center. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times.

Another option is UPMC Williamsport, a hospital with oncology services located approximately 45 miles east of Hillsgrove. The drive, primarily via PA-87 and PA-44, takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. While shorter in distance than the trip to Danville, the route includes some stretches of winding roads, which can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

The score considers the potential for delays due to weather, road construction, and traffic. It also factors in the cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, all of which can add to the financial burden of **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in rural areas are often limited, and Hillsgrove is no exception. The availability of buses or other forms of public **transportation** is minimal. Residents may need to rely on the Lycoming County Transportation Authority (LCTA), which provides demand-response services. However, these services typically require advance booking and may not be available for all destinations or at all times.

The LCTA operates a "Shared Ride" program, where individuals can schedule rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations. However, availability is limited, and the program may not be able to accommodate the frequent trips required for cancer treatment.

The score assesses the accessibility of public transit options, including the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the ease of scheduling rides. It also considers the potential for longer travel times and the need for transfers, which can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing treatment.

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

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered alternative **transportation** options in many areas. However, their availability in rural regions like Hillsgrove is often inconsistent. Ride-sharing services may be limited or unavailable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide specialized **transportation** for patients with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

The score evaluates the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, considering factors such as wait times, cost, and the level of care provided. It also assesses the potential for these services to fill the gaps in public transit and private vehicle access.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Medical Transport Services of PA:** Offers non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments.
* **First Transit:** Provides NEMT services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Care Ride:** Another NEMT provider.

**Moving to Hillsgrove: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering **moving to Hillsgrove**, the **healthcare access** landscape should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing specialized medical care in this rural setting.

The score highlights the importance of careful planning, including the potential need for a reliable vehicle, the consideration of alternative **transportation** options, and the establishment of relationships with medical providers located outside of Hillsgrove. It emphasizes the need for individuals to proactively assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available resources to ensure timely and convenient access to care.

**The Score's Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Hillsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 18619) reflects the challenges of accessing **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Hillsgrove are undeniable, the limited **transportation** options pose a significant hurdle for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, exploring all available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** infrastructure and services to ensure that residents of Hillsgrove have equitable access to the care they need. The score underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the **transportation** landscape to navigate the journey to recovery.