19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.54 percent of residents in 19149 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nazareth Hospital with a distance of 2.30 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19149**

Considering a move to Philadelphia, specifically ZIP Code 19149? This area, encompassing portions of Southwest Philadelphia, presents a unique tapestry of community life, but understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially concerning a disease as serious as lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" – a personalized assessment of transportation accessibility to essential healthcare resources, vital for timely diagnosis and treatment. The score considers various modes of **transportation**, from personal vehicles to public transit, offering a realistic view of navigating the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of our score lies in evaluating drive times to major hospitals and cancer centers. From the heart of 19149, accessing the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), a leading cancer treatment facility, typically involves navigating the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) or utilizing local roads like Woodland Avenue and University Avenue. During peak hours, expect drive times to exceed 30 minutes, a significant factor in our score.

Another crucial destination is the Fox Chase Cancer Center, located further north. Reaching Fox Chase necessitates traversing the Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), a notoriously congested artery. Expect a commute exceeding an hour, especially during rush hour. This extended travel time significantly impacts the score, emphasizing the challenges of accessing specialized cancer care from 19149.

Public **transportation** offers an alternative, though it presents its own set of considerations. SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, provides bus and trolley services. Several bus routes, including the 36, 108, and 113, traverse 19149, offering connections to other transit lines and hospitals. However, bus travel can be time-consuming, and the frequency of service varies, particularly on weekends and evenings. The availability of accessible routes, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

SEPTA's trolley lines, such as the Route 11 and Route 13, offer a more direct route to some hospitals, but their coverage within 19149 is limited. Furthermore, transfers between bus and trolley lines can add significant travel time. The accessibility of trolley stations, including elevators and ramps, is a vital consideration for those requiring ADA-compliant **transportation**.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another option, providing door-to-door service. However, the cost of frequent rides can be a financial burden, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment. Availability can also fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited driver density. Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, but they can be more expensive than standard ride-sharing.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of local healthcare facilities within 19149 itself. While the area may have primary care physicians and community clinics, the availability of specialized cancer care, such as oncologists and radiation therapy centers, is limited. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals, amplifying the importance of efficient **transportation**.

The score further assesses the ease of access to pharmacies, where patients can obtain medications prescribed for cancer treatment. Proximity to pharmacies with extended hours and convenient **transportation** options is essential. The score also takes into account the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups and counseling, which can be crucial for patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment. It acknowledges that individual needs and circumstances vary. For example, a person with a personal vehicle and the financial means to utilize ride-sharing services will have a different experience than someone relying solely on public transit. The score also considers the impact of traffic congestion, which can significantly affect drive times, especially during peak hours.

The assessment of healthcare access in 19149 is complicated by the socio-economic factors that impact **healthcare access**. The score considers the availability of financial assistance programs and the proximity to community resources that can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" incorporates all these factors, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the **transportation** landscape for individuals with lung cancer in 19149. It’s a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities. The score is designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The score is not a definitive judgment but a tool to help individuals understand the realities of accessing care. It’s a starting point for a conversation with healthcare providers, social workers, and community advocates. It’s a call to action to improve **healthcare access** for all residents of 19149, especially those battling lung cancer.

The score is a reminder that moving to Philadelphia, or any new location, requires a thorough understanding of the local healthcare system. It’s a reminder that planning for **healthcare access** is a critical component of a successful transition. The score is a testament to the importance of proactive planning and the value of community resources in navigating the challenges of lung cancer.