17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.13 percent of residents in 17866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 12.78 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coal Township (ZIP Code 17866)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is a significant one. For individuals contemplating a move to Coal Township, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17866), understanding access to prostate cancer care is crucial. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating transportation options and healthcare access, offering a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making. This analysis considers the crucial factors that determine a patient's ability to receive timely and effective treatment.

Coal Township, nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The region's healthcare infrastructure, coupled with its transportation networks, paints a specific picture of what a resident can expect when dealing with prostate cancer. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, providing a detailed assessment of the challenges and opportunities.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a descriptive evaluation. It aims to provide prospective residents with a realistic understanding of their potential healthcare journey. This includes the ease of getting to appointments, the availability of specialized care, and the overall accessibility of the medical system.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The area is served by several key highways and roads, influencing drive times to medical facilities. Route 61, a major north-south artery, offers direct access to Shamokin and Mount Carmel, towns that host some healthcare facilities. Route 901, another important thoroughfare, provides connectivity to nearby communities.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. Rush hour, particularly on Route 61, can lead to increased travel times. A trip to Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, for instance, might take approximately 10-15 minutes under normal conditions, but this could easily extend to 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

The distance to larger medical centers like Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for specialized care, presents a more considerable challenge. The drive, primarily via Route 61 and then Route 80 East, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. This extended travel time necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments or urgent needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Coal Township are limited, which can impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus services within the county. However, routes and schedules are often infrequent, especially on weekends and evenings.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges for those needing regular medical appointments. For example, a bus route to Shamokin might be available, but connecting to Danville for specialized care could be difficult.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This unreliability can be a significant concern for patients needing timely transportation to appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like MedTrans and other regional providers offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. These services can be a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, potentially creating a financial burden for some individuals.

**Healthcare Access: A Closer Look**

The availability of prostate cancer specialists in the immediate vicinity is a critical factor. Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital offers some primary care services, but specialized care, such as urology and oncology, may require travel to larger medical centers.

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The drive to Danville, while longer, offers access to a wider range of specialists and resources. Other options include facilities in nearby towns, such as the UPMC facilities in Williamsport.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" Conclusion**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Coal Township (ZIP Code 17866) reveals a mixed picture. While the area offers some healthcare resources, transportation presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to potential healthcare access barriers.

The drive times to larger medical centers, especially Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, require careful planning and consideration. The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable alternative, but their cost and the need for advance booking must be factored in.

For individuals considering a move to Coal Township and with existing or potential prostate cancer concerns, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration when choosing a place to live, particularly when healthcare access is a priority. The decision to move to Coal Township should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation challenges and the available healthcare resources, ensuring the best possible outcomes for individuals managing prostate cancer. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a critical component of successful healthcare management in this region.