19047, Langhorne, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19047, Langhorne, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.74 percent of residents in 19047 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary Medical Center with a distance of 0.58 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19047

The decision to relocate is often driven by a complex interplay of factors, and for those considering a move to Langhorne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19047), access to quality healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, becomes paramount. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to residents of 19047, focusing on their impact on healthcare access, ultimately informing a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the practicality of receiving timely and comprehensive care.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the geographical realities of the area. Langhorne, a suburban community in Bucks County, is strategically positioned, offering a blend of residential tranquility and proximity to major roadways. This positioning is crucial when considering transportation options to healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery for vehicular movement in and out of Langhorne is the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276), a toll road that offers relatively swift access to hospitals and cancer centers in the broader Philadelphia metropolitan area. From the heart of 19047, a drive to the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center in Northeast Philadelphia, a leading institution for cancer treatment, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive involves navigating the Turnpike and transitioning onto major arteries like Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), a bustling thoroughfare that can experience significant congestion during peak hours.

Another critical destination is the nearby St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne itself. This facility offers comprehensive medical services, including cancer care, and is easily accessible via Oxford Valley Road and the Newtown Bypass. The drive time to St. Mary's is generally under 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for residents.

Further afield, but still within reasonable driving distance, is the University of Pennsylvania Health System's hospitals in Philadelphia. Reaching these facilities, known for their advanced cancer treatment protocols, requires navigating the Turnpike and then city streets, potentially adding an hour or more to the commute, contingent on traffic.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in 19047, while present, are less robust than in more urban environments. The primary provider is the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The Trenton Line, a regional rail service, offers service from the Langhorne station, located near the center of the ZIP code. This line provides direct access to Center City Philadelphia, where numerous hospitals and cancer centers are located. However, the train schedule may not align with all medical appointments, and the walk from the train station to a specific hospital can add considerable time and physical strain, particularly for patients undergoing treatment.

SEPTA bus routes, such as the 130 and 134, also serve the area, connecting Langhorne to surrounding towns and transportation hubs. These buses, however, are generally slower than rail and can be subject to delays. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is an important consideration for patients with mobility limitations, and SEPTA has made significant efforts to improve accessibility across its fleet. It's imperative to verify the accessibility of specific routes and stops before relying on them for healthcare transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. These services are readily available in 19047, providing door-to-door transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase expenses.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and various local private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often covered by insurance, but pre-authorization and scheduling are usually required.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 19047 is not a simple numerical value; rather, it's a qualitative assessment that considers the interplay of transportation options, healthcare access, and the specific needs of a lung cancer patient.

**Factors influencing the score include:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The presence of St. Mary Medical Center within minutes is a significant positive factor. The accessibility of Fox Chase Cancer Center and Philadelphia hospitals, while requiring longer commutes, is also advantageous.
* **Transportation Availability:** The availability of multiple transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides flexibility.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-accessible public transportation and medical transport options is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.
* **Cost:** The cost of transportation, particularly for ride-sharing and medical transport, can be a significant financial burden.
* **Traffic Congestion:** The impact of traffic on drive times, especially during peak hours, must be considered.
* **Support System:** The availability of family, friends, or caregivers to assist with transportation is a critical factor.

**Moving to Langhorne with Lung Cancer:**

For individuals considering moving to Langhorne while battling lung cancer, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The proximity of St. Mary Medical Center offers immediate convenience. However, the ability to access specialized cancer centers in Philadelphia, such as Fox Chase, is crucial for advanced treatment options.

The availability of multiple transportation options, including ride-sharing and medical transport, can mitigate the challenges of commuting. Prospective residents should research insurance coverage for medical transport and explore financial assistance programs to alleviate transportation costs.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, 19047 offers a reasonably favorable environment for individuals with lung cancer, especially compared to more rural areas with limited transportation options. The presence of a local hospital, the accessibility of specialized cancer centers, and the availability of multiple transportation choices contribute to a positive "Lung Cancer Score." However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents must proactively assess their individual needs, explore all available resources, and develop a comprehensive transportation strategy to ensure timely and convenient access to healthcare.