19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.53 percent of residents in 19129 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Temple University Hospital with a distance of 1.57 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19129

Considering a move to Philadelphia's 19129 ZIP code? This assessment delves into the vital element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on lung cancer treatment, a critical consideration for residents or those contemplating a relocation. We will examine the accessibility of vital healthcare services, encompassing drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, to provide a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for this area. This score reflects the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical care, a crucial factor in managing and combating this disease.

The 19129 ZIP code, encompassing the Roxborough neighborhood, presents a unique landscape for transportation. Its hilly terrain and proximity to both the Schuylkill River and the Wissahickon Valley Park influence travel patterns. Evaluating healthcare access requires a nuanced understanding of these factors. The primary focus is on the availability of lung cancer specialists, diagnostic facilities (CT scans, PET scans), and treatment centers (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy).

**Drive Times: The Paved Pathways to Care**

For those relying on personal vehicles, drive times are paramount. The primary arteries connecting 19129 to major healthcare providers are the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) and Ridge Avenue. Accessing I-76 from 19129 typically involves navigating local roads like Ridge Avenue or Lincoln Drive, potentially encountering traffic congestion during peak hours.

Driving to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), a leading cancer center, via I-76 can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Temple University Hospital, another significant healthcare provider, is accessible via Ridge Avenue and Broad Street, with a drive time ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. Jefferson Health, with multiple locations, offers varying drive times based on the specific facility, generally within a 20-40 minute window.

The drive along Ridge Avenue, while offering direct access to certain hospitals, can be slow-going, especially during rush hour. This route provides access to Chestnut Hill Hospital, a community hospital with cancer services, typically a 10-20 minute drive. Understanding these drive times is crucial for patients needing frequent appointments or facing urgent medical situations. The variable nature of Philadelphia traffic necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative routes.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City's Veins**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), offers a network of buses and regional rail lines. For residents of 19129, access to public transit is a key component of healthcare access. Several bus routes service the area, including the 9, 27, and 65. These routes connect to major transit hubs and hospitals.

The Route 9 bus travels along Ridge Avenue, providing direct access to Temple University Hospital and connections to other transit lines. The Route 27 and 65 buses offer connections to the regional rail lines, allowing for travel to Center City and other parts of the city. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially during peak hours.

SEPTA’s regional rail system provides another option. The Manayunk/Norristown Line offers service from nearby stations, providing a potentially faster route to Center City and hospitals located there. However, these stations may require a connecting bus or a short walk, adding to the overall travel time.

SEPTA strives to provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible services, including accessible buses and elevators/ramps at many rail stations. However, accessibility can vary, and it is crucial to confirm the specific accessibility features of each route and station before travel. For lung cancer patients, the availability of accessible transportation is critical.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel time and stress. However, ride-share costs can fluctuate, especially during peak hours.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and offer assistance with boarding and disembarking. They are a valuable resource for patients who may have mobility limitations or require specialized assistance.

The availability and cost of these services should be considered when assessing healthcare access. These options can be particularly beneficial for patients who cannot drive or have difficulty using public transportation. These services often require advance booking, so planning is essential.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for 19129 should consider all these factors. It is not just about drive times or bus routes; it is about the overall accessibility of healthcare. A high score would reflect easy access to multiple healthcare providers, including specialists, diagnostic facilities, and treatment centers, through a variety of transportation options.

A lower score would indicate challenges in accessing care, potentially due to long drive times, limited public transit options, or high costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transportation. This score is dynamic, influenced by traffic conditions, the availability of public transit, and the evolving landscape of healthcare providers.

For individuals considering moving to Philadelphia, especially those with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, this detailed analysis of transportation and healthcare access in 19129 is crucial. It helps to make informed decisions about relocation and ensures that access to life-saving care is readily available. This comprehensive assessment helps to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for navigating healthcare access in this specific ZIP code.