19153, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19153, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.90 percent of residents in 19153 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19153

The air hangs heavy with the potential for health concerns, particularly in the context of lung cancer, a disease that demands swift and efficient access to specialized care. This write-up, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 19153, delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to navigate the healthcare landscape, specifically focusing on facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. We will assess the ease of movement, a critical element in determining the Lung Cancer Score, and explore the realities of healthcare access in this Philadelphia community.

For those considering moving to Philadelphia, understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial. This understanding becomes even more vital when considering the potential need for frequent medical appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatment sessions. The proximity of quality healthcare facilities, coupled with the efficiency of transportation options, significantly impacts the quality of life for residents, especially those facing a serious illness like lung cancer.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries of 19153, including the Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), offer direct routes to several major hospitals. Driving times, however, are heavily influenced by traffic patterns. During peak hours, the Boulevard becomes a congested corridor, potentially extending travel times significantly. The I-95, while providing a faster route to some hospitals, can also be prone to bottlenecks, particularly during rush hour.

The drive to Jefferson Health – Torresdale Hospital, a facility known for its cancer care, typically takes around 15-20 minutes during off-peak hours via the Boulevard. However, this can easily double during the morning or evening commutes. Similarly, access to the University of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine) facilities, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), requires navigating the Boulevard and potentially the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76). This journey can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Other hospitals, like Nazareth Hospital, are accessible via the Boulevard and other local roads. These routes, though shorter in distance, can be impacted by local traffic and signal timings. Parking availability at these facilities, another critical factor, should be considered. Many hospitals offer valet services and parking garages, but these can add to the overall cost and time required for a visit.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag:**

SEPTA, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, provides a network of buses and regional rail lines that serve 19153. The Route 28 bus, for example, runs along the Roosevelt Boulevard, offering a relatively frequent service to various destinations, including hospitals. However, bus travel can be significantly slower than driving, especially during peak hours.

The Market-Frankford Line, the "El," provides a more rapid transit option, but its accessibility from 19153 requires a transfer, adding to the overall travel time. The nearest El stations are a considerable distance from many parts of the ZIP code. The Regional Rail lines, while offering faster travel to Center City and other areas, are not always directly accessible from all parts of 19153.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. SEPTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility across its network, with accessible buses and elevators at many stations. However, not all stations are fully accessible, and the availability of elevators can be subject to outages. Planning a trip using public transit requires careful consideration of accessibility features, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate parking or transfers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours can further increase the expense.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide a dedicated service for individuals needing assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing, they provide a higher level of care and support, which can be invaluable for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for 19153 is not simply a number; it's a reflection of the interplay between transportation options, healthcare access, and the specific needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The score must consider the following elements:

* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** The distance and travel time to hospitals and cancer centers equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer.
* **Transportation Reliability:** The dependability and frequency of transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options for individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Cost:** The affordability of transportation options, considering both direct costs and potential hidden expenses such as parking fees.
* **Patient Needs:** The specific needs of individuals undergoing cancer treatment, including the need for comfort, convenience, and support.

**Moving to Philadelphia: A Considered Decision:**

For those considering moving to Philadelphia, particularly to 19153, the Lung Cancer Score is a critical element in the decision-making process. While the area offers a range of housing options and community amenities, the proximity to quality healthcare facilities and the efficiency of transportation options are paramount, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking a location with excellent healthcare access.

The availability of diverse transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, provides a degree of flexibility. However, the reliance on roadways prone to congestion and the potential for delays on public transit necessitate careful planning. The Lung Cancer Score should be considered a dynamic metric, constantly evolving as transportation infrastructure changes and healthcare resources expand.

In conclusion, while 19153 offers a range of transportation options, the Lung Cancer Score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of the potential challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The efficiency of transportation, the accessibility of facilities, and the specific needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis are all essential factors in determining the overall quality of life for residents of this Philadelphia community.