19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.73 percent of residents in 19074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 2.94 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Norwood, PA (ZIP Code 19074)**

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can be daunting, a journey demanding not only expert medical care but also ease of access. For residents of Norwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19074), the ability to reach specialists, undergo treatments, and attend follow-up appointments is a crucial factor in their well-being. This write-up explores the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents of Norwood seeking **healthcare access**, providing a Lung Cancer Score assessment based on the realities of the area. This is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Norwood**, as it directly impacts the quality of life.

Norwood, a borough nestled in Delaware County, finds itself strategically positioned, offering a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality shapes the **transportation** options available to its residents. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are MacDade Boulevard, a bustling east-west thoroughfare, and Chester Pike, running parallel and offering another route. The proximity of Interstate 95 (I-95), a major north-south highway, significantly influences **healthcare access**, as it provides a direct route to major medical facilities.

The drive times to hospitals and cancer centers are a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The closest major hospital, Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby, is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions along MacDade Boulevard or Chester Pike. This relatively short commute is a positive factor, contributing to a higher score. However, the presence of traffic, particularly during peak hours, can extend these times, impacting the overall assessment.

For more specialized cancer care, residents often need to travel further. The University of Pennsylvania Health System's Abramson Cancer Center, a nationally recognized facility, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey usually involves navigating I-95 North, which can be prone to congestion. The commute to the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Center City Philadelphia, another leading cancer center, is similarly around 30-45 minutes, also primarily via I-95.

Public **transportation** in Norwood offers an alternative, although its effectiveness for cancer patients can be limited. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides bus service through the area. Route 113 serves Norwood, offering connections to other routes and regional rail lines. While this provides an option for those unable to drive, the frequency of bus service and the potential for transfers can add considerable travel time, making it less ideal for frequent medical appointments.

The SEPTA Regional Rail system, with stations in nearby towns, offers a faster route to Center City Philadelphia, where many specialized cancer centers are located. However, access to these stations from Norwood requires a connecting bus or a short drive, adding another layer of complexity. The accessibility of SEPTA services for individuals with disabilities is also a crucial consideration. SEPTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and elevators at rail stations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide on-demand **transportation**, offering convenience for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of these services in Norwood is generally good, although surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can impact affordability.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. Companies like MedTrans and Logisticare offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, providing door-to-door service for those with mobility limitations. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. While they offer a valuable service, they can be subject to scheduling constraints and may not always be readily available for urgent appointments.

The Lung Cancer Score for Norwood, PA (19074) is moderately favorable. The proximity to Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital provides a good starting point. However, the reliance on I-95 for specialized cancer care introduces potential challenges, particularly during peak traffic times. The availability of public **transportation** offers an alternative, though its limitations in terms of frequency, travel time, and ADA accessibility must be considered. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provide additional options, but their cost and availability may be a factor.

For individuals considering **moving to Norwood** and managing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of these factors is essential. The ease of access to medical care is a critical element in the overall quality of life. While Norwood offers a reasonable starting point, the potential for traffic delays and the limitations of public **transportation** should be factored into the decision-making process.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of various factors. The score can be improved by increased investment in public **transportation**, such as expanded bus routes or enhanced frequency. The availability of more affordable ride-sharing options or increased medical **transportation** services would also contribute to a higher score.

In conclusion, while Norwood offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access**, particularly for basic medical needs, those with complex cancer care needs should carefully evaluate the **transportation** options and potential travel times to specialized centers. The journey to and from medical appointments is an integral part of the cancer experience, and a well-considered **transportation** plan can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.