19507, Bethel, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19507, Bethel, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.50 percent of residents in 19507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Good Samaritan Hospital with a distance of 12.86 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 19507

The crisp air of Berks County, Pennsylvania, often whispers through the rolling hills surrounding ZIP Code 19507, a region encompassing the borough of Bethel and its neighboring townships. For those considering a move to this community, particularly individuals with or at risk for lung cancer, a crucial consideration is the accessibility of healthcare. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents of 19507.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, isn’t a medical metric but a practical evaluation. It weighs the ease and efficiency of getting to vital medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of healthcare access, helping potential residents make informed decisions.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of 19507, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare is Interstate 78, a vital east-west artery. Access to I-78 is relatively straightforward, with several on-ramps conveniently located. Driving east towards Allentown and Bethlehem, one can find major hospitals like Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest. Westbound, I-78 leads towards Harrisburg and the Hershey Medical Center, offering comprehensive cancer care.

Travel times, however, are subject to traffic. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, congestion on I-78 can significantly extend travel times. A drive to Lehigh Valley Hospital, normally a 45-minute trip, could easily stretch to an hour or more. The same applies to the Hershey Medical Center, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive under ideal conditions.

Beyond I-78, Route 501 and Route 645 serve as primary local roads. Route 501 provides a north-south connection, while Route 645 offers a more direct route to Lebanon. These roads are generally less congested than I-78, but they are also more prone to accidents and weather-related delays, especially during winter months. The condition of these roads, along with the availability of alternative routes, is crucial for those needing to reach medical facilities quickly.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in 19507 are limited. Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) operates a bus system, but service to Bethel and the surrounding areas is infrequent and often geared towards commuting to Reading. The routes are not specifically designed to facilitate access to hospitals and medical centers.

BARTA Route 102, for instance, offers limited service to the Hamburg area, which provides some connectivity to other areas. However, it is not a direct route to major hospitals. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. BARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose challenges for those with mobility impairments. Healthcare access via public transit is a significant hurdle in this region.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 19507 area, but their availability can be unpredictable. Response times can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. This is another crucial component of healthcare access.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedStar and others offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing, but they can provide a reliable and comfortable way to get to medical appointments. However, availability and advance booking are essential, making it necessary to plan ahead.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Considering all the factors, the Lung Cancer Score for 19507 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways like I-78 offers access to comprehensive cancer care facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can create challenges. Public transportation is limited and not designed to meet the specific needs of individuals seeking healthcare. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

**Moving to Bethel: Making an Informed Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Bethel (19507), or any area with limited transportation options, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Prospective residents should factor in the following:

* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** While major hospitals are within reasonable driving distance, consider the potential for traffic delays.
* **Transportation Alternatives:** Explore the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Support System:** Assess the availability of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Financial Planning:** Factor in the potential costs of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport services.
* **Pre-existing Conditions:** Those with existing health conditions or mobility issues should give special consideration to transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 19507 is not a definitive judgment but a framework for informed decision-making. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, potential residents can make choices that best suit their individual needs and circumstances. The goal is to ensure that access to quality healthcare is not a barrier to enjoying the tranquility and beauty of this Berks County community.