17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.81 percent of residents in 17850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Montandon (ZIP Code 17850)

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding swift and informed decisions. For residents of Montandon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17850), the journey from diagnosis to treatment necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, especially in terms of transportation. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a personalized assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities, vital for navigating this challenging time. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial for informed decision-making. This is especially relevant for those considering moving to Montandon, seeking a community with accessible healthcare.

Montandon, a small community nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the town itself may not boast extensive medical facilities, several regional hospitals and specialized clinics offer comprehensive prostate cancer care. The ability to reach these facilities efficiently and reliably is paramount, and this "Prostate Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the transportation landscape, empowering residents to make informed choices.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The "Prostate Cancer Score" assesses drive times to key healthcare providers, factoring in potential traffic and road conditions. The primary thoroughfare connecting Montandon to the broader region is **Route 45**, which becomes a critical artery for healthcare access.

* **Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** A major healthcare hub, Geisinger Medical Center, is a cornerstone of prostate cancer care in the region. The drive from Montandon to Danville, primarily via Route 45, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This relatively short commute offers convenient access to specialized urology services, oncology departments, and advanced treatment options.

* **Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg):** Located approximately 15-20 minutes away via Route 45 and Route 15, Evangelical Community Hospital provides another viable option. This hospital offers comprehensive care, including urology services and cancer treatment programs, making it a convenient choice for residents.

* **Other Facilities:** Depending on specific needs, patients may require access to specialized clinics or hospitals further afield. For example, access to larger facilities in Harrisburg or Philadelphia may be needed. These longer commutes, utilizing highways such as **Interstate 80** and **Route 15**, can extend travel times significantly, potentially impacting treatment schedules and recovery.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus Routes**

Public transportation options in Montandon and the surrounding areas are limited but still play a role in healthcare access. The primary provider is the **River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT)**. RVT operates several routes, though their frequency and coverage are not as extensive as in larger urban areas.

* **Route 10 (Lewisburg/Milton):** This route, while not directly serving Montandon, offers connections to Lewisburg and Milton. From these towns, patients can connect to healthcare facilities. However, this route is not ADA accessible.

* **ADA Accessibility:** It is imperative to verify ADA accessibility for any public transit option. This includes wheelchair lifts, accessible seating, and audio-visual announcements. Patients with mobility limitations must confirm the availability of these features before relying on public transit.

The limited public transit options in Montandon present challenges for those without personal vehicles. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers the impact of these limitations, especially for patients who may be experiencing fatigue, pain, or other side effects of treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: The On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** offer an alternative transportation option. However, availability in rural areas like Montandon can be inconsistent. The "Prostate Cancer Score" factors in the reliability of these services, considering wait times and potential surge pricing.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **AmbuBus:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

* **Care Ride:** Offers similar services, focusing on patient comfort and safety.

* **Local Ambulance Services:** These services are primarily for emergencies but can also provide transportation for scheduled appointments, depending on availability and medical necessity.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" evaluates the cost, availability, and accessibility of these services, recognizing their importance for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" – A Holistic Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Key Facilities:** Shorter drive times receive a higher score.

* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Availability of public transit, including ADA features, impacts the score.

* **Ride-Share Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services are considered.

* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services are evaluated.

* **Patient Needs:** Individual patient needs, such as mobility limitations, treatment schedules, and financial constraints, are factored into the personalized assessment.

This comprehensive analysis empowers residents of Montandon to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, offering peace of mind during a challenging time. For those considering moving to Montandon, this information is invaluable. It allows potential residents to assess the availability of healthcare access, ensuring they can receive the care they need.