19081, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19081, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.51 percent of residents in 19081 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 3.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Swarthmore (ZIP Code 19081)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer, becomes a critical factor when considering a move. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment options from Swarthmore, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19081), focusing on transportation infrastructure and available services. We’ll evaluate drive times, public transit accessibility, and alternative transport options, ultimately providing a “Lung Cancer Score” to gauge the ease of accessing potentially life-saving care.

Swarthmore, a charming borough in Delaware County, offers a desirable suburban lifestyle. However, the proximity to quality healthcare, especially for specialized treatments like lung cancer care, is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is essential, impacting both the speed and the stress of accessing appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Swarthmore are the Blue Route (I-476) and the Baltimore Pike (Route 1). These roadways serve as the lifelines connecting residents to major medical centers. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive time to the nearest hospitals with comprehensive lung cancer treatment programs will vary.

Driving to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) in Philadelphia, a nationally recognized cancer center, typically takes around 30-45 minutes via I-476 North and I-76 East, assuming moderate traffic. Rush hour, however, can easily extend this commute. Similarly, driving to the Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, PA, a regional healthcare provider, is generally a 15-20 minute drive via Route 320 South and Route 13.

The drive to the Bryn Mawr Hospital, part of Main Line Health, is approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 320 North and Lancaster Avenue (Route 30). This hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program. These drive times are crucial factors, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or frequent appointments.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides public transit options for Swarthmore residents. The Media/Wawa Regional Rail Line offers direct access to Center City Philadelphia, where numerous hospitals and cancer centers are located. The Swarthmore train station is conveniently located, making it a relatively accessible option.

The train ride to Jefferson Hospital, another major cancer treatment center, takes approximately 30-40 minutes. The station at Jefferson is directly connected to the hospital. The Media/Wawa line also connects to the Market-Frankford Line, providing further access to hospitals in West Philadelphia.

SEPTA bus routes, such as the Route 109, also serve Swarthmore, connecting to the Media train station and providing access to local healthcare facilities. However, bus travel can be less predictable than rail, subject to traffic delays. ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. SEPTA’s Regional Rail and newer buses are generally ADA-compliant, but it's essential to confirm specific features, such as elevators or ramps, at each station or bus stop.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Alternatives:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation options. These services can be particularly valuable for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in response to demand.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and First Medical Transport, specialize in providing transportation for patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. While these services offer convenience and specialized care, they can be more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing.

**Weighing the Options: A Lung Cancer Score:**

Evaluating these transportation options allows us to formulate a Lung Cancer Score for Swarthmore. This score considers the following factors: drive times to major cancer centers, the accessibility and reliability of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

* **Drive Time:** Swarthmore benefits from relatively short drive times to several hospitals with cancer treatment programs. The proximity to I-476 and Route 1 provides good access to major medical centers.
* **Public Transit:** SEPTA's Media/Wawa line provides convenient access to Center City Philadelphia, a hub for healthcare. The Swarthmore train station's location enhances accessibility.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services adds flexibility and options for those with mobility limitations or who prefer alternative transportation.

Considering these factors, Swarthmore receives a **Lung Cancer Score of 8 out of 10**. This score reflects the borough's relatively good access to healthcare, supported by a combination of convenient drive times, accessible public transit, and alternative transportation options.

**Conclusion: A Consideration for Moving to Swarthmore:**

For individuals considering a move to Swarthmore, this Lung Cancer Score provides valuable insights. The ease of transportation to healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in lung cancer treatment, is a significant factor in quality of life. While no location is perfect, Swarthmore offers a favorable environment, combining suburban charm with relatively easy access to comprehensive medical care. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, ensures that residents can access the care they need, when they need it. This accessibility contributes to a positive outlook for those seeking treatment and a supportive community.