19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.55 percent of residents in 19086 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 Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 2.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19086

This analysis examines the accessibility of lung cancer healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 19086 (Wallingford, PA), focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the nuances of *transportation* within and beyond this community is crucial for assessing *healthcare access*, especially for individuals facing a potentially life-threatening illness. Prospective residents *moving to Wallingford* should consider these factors when evaluating their access to care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a formal medical metric, but rather a composite assessment of transportation factors impacting access to lung cancer specialists, diagnostic facilities (CT scans, PET scans), and treatment centers (oncology, radiation therapy) from the 19086 area. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

Wallingford, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to major metropolitan areas, presenting both advantages and challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular *transportation* are the I-95 corridor, the Blue Route (I-476), and US Route 1 (the Baltimore Pike). These highways are essential for reaching specialized medical facilities in Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs.

Driving to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), a major cancer center, typically takes 30-45 minutes via I-95, depending on traffic. Similarly, driving to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Center City Philadelphia, another prominent cancer care provider, also averages 30-45 minutes, usually via I-95 or the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76). Closer to home, the Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, PA, is accessible within 15-20 minutes via US Route 1.

The Blue Route (I-476) provides a more direct route to some hospitals, such as Bryn Mawr Hospital (approximately 20-30 minutes) and Lankenau Medical Center (approximately 25-35 minutes). However, the Blue Route can experience significant congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times and impacting timely access to care.

Public *transportation* options are available, though they present complexities. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) operates several bus routes and regional rail lines serving Wallingford. The Media/Elwyn Regional Rail Line provides access to Center City Philadelphia, with stations in Wallingford and nearby Swarthmore. From Center City, patients can connect to various hospitals via SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, or bus routes.

The Media/Elwyn Line is generally considered accessible, with elevators and ramps at most stations, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the walk from the train station to a hospital in Philadelphia can be challenging for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment. Bus routes serving Wallingford, such as the Route 101 and Route 102, may have limited accessibility features, and service frequency can be a concern, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another *transportation* alternative. They provide on-demand *transportation* to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service, potentially reducing the stress and inconvenience associated with public transit or driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some patients, especially those requiring frequent trips for treatment.

Medical *transportation* services, such as MedRide and CareRide, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, catering to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. While these services offer a valuable resource, they can be expensive and may require advance booking, impacting spontaneous access to care.

The availability of these *transportation* options directly influences the "Lung Cancer Score." The score considers the following factors: the proximity of specialized cancer centers; the availability of convenient and reliable *transportation*; the affordability of *transportation* options; and the accessibility of *transportation* for individuals with disabilities.

A higher score indicates better access to care, reflecting shorter travel times, readily available *transportation* options, and affordable access. A lower score suggests greater challenges, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, treatment, and poorer health outcomes.

For a resident of 19086, the score is moderately favorable. The proximity to major medical centers in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs is a significant advantage. The availability of multiple *transportation* options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical *transportation*, provides flexibility.

However, challenges exist. Traffic congestion on major highways, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase travel times. The reliance on public *transportation* requires careful planning and may be less convenient for patients with mobility limitations. The cost of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* can be a financial burden.

For individuals *moving to Wallingford* with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, it is imperative to research the location of cancer centers, assess the ease of access using various *transportation* methods, and evaluate the cost of each mode. Consider the impact of traffic on travel times, especially during peak hours.

Furthermore, individuals should investigate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with coordinating appointments, navigating *transportation* options, and accessing financial assistance. This proactive approach is crucial for ensuring seamless access to care and maximizing the chances of successful treatment.

In conclusion, while Wallingford offers a reasonable level of *healthcare access* for lung cancer patients, individuals must carefully consider the available *transportation* options and their potential impact on their care. The "Lung Cancer Score" for 19086 reflects a balance of advantages and challenges. Careful planning, research, and utilization of available resources are essential for ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and improved health outcomes.