17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.01 percent of residents in 17868 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 1.89 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868)

The decision to move, particularly when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the prostate cancer healthcare landscape for residents of Riverside, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17868), focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely and convenient medical care. This “Prostate Cancer Score” provides a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the critical role transportation plays in navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.

Riverside, nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique challenge: its rural setting can limit healthcare access. The ability to reach specialists, undergo necessary procedures, and attend follow-up appointments significantly impacts the quality of life for those diagnosed with prostate cancer. This analysis delves into the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

For many Riverside residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Danville, approximately 10 miles away, and in Lewisburg, about 20 miles distant. Driving to Danville typically involves a journey of 15-20 minutes via **Route 11** or **Route 54**. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying appointments.

Reaching Lewisburg, home to more extensive medical facilities, necessitates a drive of roughly 30-40 minutes. The most direct route involves **Route 147** and **Route 45**. This longer drive time underscores the importance of planning, especially for patients undergoing radiation therapy or frequent check-ups. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also affect travel times and safety.

Public transportation options in Riverside are limited. The Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not always conducive to medical appointments. While the NCTA strives to offer ADA-accessible buses, the frequency of service, particularly to medical centers in Danville and Lewisburg, may be insufficient for timely access to care. Residents should contact NCTA directly to inquire about specific routes and schedules.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services, particularly for frequent appointments, can also be a significant financial burden for patients. Patients should factor in the potential for surge pricing and the need to book rides in advance.

Medical transport services offer a specialized option for patients who require assistance. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, can transport patients to and from appointments. However, availability and coverage may vary depending on insurance and the specific needs of the patient. Researching and securing a reliable medical transport provider is a crucial step for those with mobility limitations or other challenges.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for Riverside, PA, must consider the limitations of healthcare access. While Danville and Lewisburg offer quality care, the travel times and reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable public transit pose significant challenges. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the potential cost of medical transport further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering a move to Riverside, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options. This includes researching the availability of ride-sharing services, identifying potential medical transport providers, and understanding the NCTA bus routes.

The healthcare landscape in Riverside demands proactive planning. Patients diagnosed with prostate cancer must develop a comprehensive transportation strategy to ensure timely access to care. This might involve coordinating appointments with family or friends, utilizing medical transport services, or exploring the feasibility of relocating closer to a comprehensive cancer center.

The decision to move to Riverside requires a holistic evaluation. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges of healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits. The “Prostate Cancer Score” highlights the critical role of transportation in navigating the healthcare system and underscores the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness.

The availability of quality healthcare is a paramount concern. Residents of Riverside must advocate for improved transportation options, including increased public transit frequency and the expansion of ride-sharing services. This proactive approach will help ensure that all residents, including those facing prostate cancer, can access the care they need, when they need it.

The landscape of healthcare access is constantly evolving. Residents of Riverside must remain informed about changes in transportation options, healthcare providers, and insurance coverage. This proactive approach will help them navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and ensure that they receive the best possible care.

In conclusion, while Riverside offers a desirable lifestyle, the “Prostate Cancer Score” reveals challenges in healthcare access, particularly regarding transportation. Residents must proactively address these challenges by exploring all available options, advocating for improvements, and developing comprehensive transportation strategies. This ensures that individuals facing prostate cancer can access the necessary care and maintain their quality of life.