18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.94 percent of residents in 18912 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Doylestown Hospital with a distance of 4.80 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Buckingham, PA (ZIP Code 18912)

Buckingham, Pennsylvania, a picturesque community nestled in Bucks County, offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. Yet, for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the ease of navigating the local transportation landscape becomes critically important. This report provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 18912, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors impacting patient outcomes. It's a necessary consideration for anyone moving to Buckingham, especially those with pre-existing health concerns.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several key elements: drive times to oncology centers, availability of public transportation, accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. Each element is weighted based on its impact on a patient's ability to attend appointments, receive treatment, and maintain their quality of life.

**Driving Times and Highway Access:**

Buckingham's location presents both advantages and disadvantages when considering transportation. Primary access points include Route 202, a major north-south artery that connects to Doylestown and New Hope, and Route 413, offering east-west passage. The proximity to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 276) via Route 611 in Doylestown provides a broader network for regional travel.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a pivotal factor. Doylestown Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 202. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for patients needing frequent appointments. However, specialized oncology centers, such as those in Philadelphia, may require a longer journey, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on traffic conditions on Route 611 and the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76).

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Patients undergoing treatment often experience fatigue and other side effects, making extended commutes challenging. Therefore, assessing the reliability of transportation options and accounting for potential delays is paramount.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Buckingham are limited. The primary provider is the Bucks County Transport (BCT), offering bus routes throughout the county. Unfortunately, BCT service within Buckingham is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to afford ride-sharing services. While BCT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the infrequency of service and limited coverage area restrict its usefulness for many lung cancer patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Buckingham. However, the cost of these services can accumulate rapidly, particularly for frequent appointments. Patients on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources may find ride-sharing an unsustainable option.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are specifically designed to accommodate the needs of patients with mobility limitations. However, the availability and cost of medical transport can vary, so researching and planning ahead is essential.

**Healthcare Access and Facility Proximity:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Doylestown Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer care services, is the primary local provider. The hospital's oncology department offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical services.

However, for specialized treatments or clinical trials, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Philadelphia or other regional locations. This underscores the importance of considering transportation options and travel times when evaluating healthcare access.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations:**

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical aspect of healthcare access. All healthcare facilities and public transportation providers are required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

However, accessibility extends beyond physical infrastructure. Healthcare providers should also offer support services, such as transportation assistance, patient navigation, and financial counseling, to help patients overcome barriers to care.

**"Lung Cancer Score" Assessment and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access in ZIP code 18912, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Buckingham can be summarized as follows:

* **Drive Times:** Generally favorable to Doylestown Hospital (15-20 minutes). Longer commutes to specialized centers in Philadelphia (1+ hour).
* **Public Transportation:** Limited service, infrequent routes, and limited direct access to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Readily available but potentially costly for frequent appointments.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but availability and cost vary.
* **Healthcare Access:** Doylestown Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care. Specialized treatments may require travel.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Pre-Planning:** Individuals diagnosed with lung cancer or those moving to Buckingham with pre-existing conditions should proactively research transportation options and healthcare facilities.
2. **Financial Assistance:** Explore financial assistance programs to help cover transportation costs, including ride-sharing, medical transport, and gas expenses.
3. **Patient Navigation:** Utilize patient navigation services offered by healthcare providers to assist with transportation arrangements, appointment scheduling, and other logistical needs.
4. **Advocacy:** Advocate for improved public transportation services in Buckingham and surrounding areas to enhance healthcare access for all residents.
5. **Community Support:** Connect with local support groups and organizations that offer assistance to cancer patients, including transportation assistance and emotional support.

**Conclusion:**

While Buckingham offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for longer commutes to specialized cancer centers present challenges for lung cancer patients. By understanding the transportation landscape, proactively planning for healthcare needs, and utilizing available resources, residents of ZIP code 18912 can navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment and maintain their quality of life. This assessment underscores the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when moving to Buckingham, ensuring that individuals can receive the care they need in a timely and accessible manner.