18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.72 percent of residents in 18825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 18825

Considering a move to Jackson, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18825)? This analysis delves into the critical element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on lung cancer treatment, and how transportation options shape your journey. We’ll examine drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods to construct a “Lung Cancer Score” that reflects the ease and efficiency of accessing vital medical care in this area. This is crucial, as timely access to treatment directly impacts survival rates and quality of life.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the assumption that you require specialized lung cancer care, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), consultations with oncologists and pulmonologists, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and potential surgical interventions. Access to these services, and the speed with which you can reach them, is paramount.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

In Jackson, personal vehicle transportation is the primary mode. The most direct route to specialized care typically involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The nearest major healthcare hubs for lung cancer treatment are likely to be in Scranton or Binghamton, NY.

From Jackson, the most straightforward route to Scranton involves taking **Pennsylvania Route 4004 (I-81 Connector)**, connecting to **Interstate 81 South**. This is a major north-south artery, typically well-maintained, but prone to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The commute is relatively manageable, but consider the potential for delays, particularly during inclement weather.

Alternatively, to reach Binghamton, NY, you would likely take **Pennsylvania Route 4004** to **US Route 6 West**, then connecting to **Interstate 81 North** and finally **Interstate 88 West**. This route is longer, potentially taking 1.5 to 2 hours, and involves navigating more rural roads. The scenic beauty of the region is undeniable, but the extended travel time is a significant factor, especially when dealing with a time-sensitive diagnosis like lung cancer.

The “Lung Cancer Score” will reflect the impact of these drive times. Shorter travel times contribute to a higher score, indicating better access. Conversely, longer commutes, especially when combined with potential traffic delays or challenging road conditions, will lower the score.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in ZIP code 18825 are severely limited. This poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Public transit is a crucial aspect of healthcare access, and the lack thereof can drastically impact a patient’s ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and access follow-up care.

There are no readily available public bus routes serving Jackson that directly connect to major healthcare facilities. This means that relying on public transit for lung cancer treatment is virtually impossible. The absence of accessible public transit is a significant drawback, particularly for elderly individuals, those with mobility limitations, or those who cannot afford the cost of private transportation.

The lack of public transit accessibility will significantly impact the “Lung Cancer Score,” lowering it considerably. The absence of a viable public transportation alternative forces individuals to rely on other, often more expensive and less reliable, transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of multiple rides per week, or even per day, for appointments and treatments can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, which is crucial for patients with mobility issues. However, these services can also be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially leading to delays.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services will be factored into the “Lung Cancer Score.” While these options provide alternatives to personal vehicles, their limitations in terms of cost, availability, and potential for delays will influence the overall score.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, as we've established, the lack of public transit in this area is a major concern.

When evaluating ride-sharing services, it's essential to inquire about the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Medical transportation services often prioritize ADA compliance, but it's crucial to confirm their accessibility features and ensure they meet your specific needs.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options will significantly impact the “Lung Cancer Score.” The ability to access healthcare services regardless of physical limitations is a fundamental right, and the lack of accessible options will negatively affect the score.

**The “Lung Cancer Score” in Jackson (18825): A Synthesis**

Based on the analysis, the “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP code 18825 is likely to be moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The primary factors influencing this score include:

* **Drive Times:** The moderate drive times to Scranton and Binghamton, while manageable, are subject to traffic delays and weather conditions.
* **Public Transit:** The complete lack of public transit significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternatives, but their cost, reliability, and potential for delays are concerning.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The limited availability of ADA-compliant transportation options further reduces the score.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

If you are considering moving to Jackson (18825) and are concerned about healthcare access, particularly for lung cancer treatment, this analysis provides a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape. While the area offers natural beauty and a potentially lower cost of living, the limitations in transportation options necessitate careful consideration.

Before making a move, it is crucial to:

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Consider your ability to drive, your budget for transportation, and any mobility limitations.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify the specific hospitals and clinics that offer lung cancer treatment and the associated transportation options.
* **Explore alternative solutions:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and other potential transportation arrangements.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Jackson (18825) is the right place for you, considering your healthcare needs and the challenges of transportation. This analysis is not a definitive medical recommendation, but rather a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this specific geographic area.