17884, Washingtonville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17884, Washingtonville, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.78 percent of residents in 17884 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 35.95 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Washingtonville, PA (ZIP Code 17884)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, is a multifaceted experience. It extends beyond the walls of the doctor's office, encompassing the crucial element of *transportation*. This write-up analyzes *healthcare access* for residents of Washingtonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17884), focusing on the practicalities of getting to necessary appointments and treatments. Considering a move to Washingtonville? Understanding these logistical realities is key to informed decision-making.

Washingtonville, a charming community nestled in Montour County, offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents challenges in *healthcare access*, particularly for specialized services. The nearest major medical centers equipped to handle prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment are located in Danville and Bloomsburg.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: Paving the Way**

Driving remains the primary mode of *transportation* for most Washingtonville residents. The distance to healthcare providers dictates the drive-time component of our Prostate Cancer Score. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a leading regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive. The route typically involves taking PA-54 East, a well-maintained two-lane highway that offers a relatively smooth commute. Traffic is generally light, making the drive predictable.

Bloomsburg Hospital, another option, is roughly a 20-25 minute drive, primarily utilizing PA-442 East. This route is also generally free-flowing, with minimal congestion. The ease of driving, however, is contingent on weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can impact travel times.

For those requiring radiation therapy or specialized surgical procedures, the drive to larger facilities like the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, approximately 1.5 hours away, becomes a factor. This journey involves navigating US-11 South and I-81 South, potentially encountering heavier traffic, especially during peak hours.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public *transportation* options in Washingtonville are limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system poses a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. There is no direct bus route connecting Washingtonville to the major medical centers in Danville or Bloomsburg.

The lack of accessible public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. While some regional transit authorities offer demand-response services, these options may require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent appointments. The absence of ADA-compliant public transit options further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Washingtonville area, but their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride for a medical appointment may require advance planning and coordination. The cost of ride-sharing can also add to the financial burden of *healthcare access*.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies, such as Senior Transportation and Medical Transport, operate in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive.

**The Prostate Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Washingtonville, PA (ZIP code 17884) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is not a single number but a composite assessment. The drive-time component is generally favorable, with relatively short commutes to Danville and Bloomsburg. However, the limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services pose significant challenges.

The score must also consider the availability of specialized prostate cancer care within the region. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville offers comprehensive services, including urology, oncology, and radiation therapy. Bloomsburg Hospital provides some services, but patients may need to travel to Danville for more specialized treatments. The distance to larger medical centers, like Hershey, adds another layer of complexity.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For current residents of Washingtonville, understanding the *transportation* landscape is crucial for managing their *healthcare access*. Planning appointments in advance, exploring all available *transportation* options, and considering the potential financial implications are essential.

For those considering *moving to Washingtonville*, the Prostate Cancer Score provides valuable insights. It highlights the importance of personal vehicle ownership and the need to factor in the potential costs and challenges associated with accessing healthcare services. Individuals with mobility limitations or those who rely on public transit may find the lack of accessible options a significant drawback.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations**

Improving *healthcare access* in Washingtonville requires a multi-pronged approach. Investing in public *transportation*, including expanding bus routes and implementing ADA-compliant services, would significantly benefit residents. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also help.

Expanding telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, could reduce the need for travel. Furthermore, increasing the availability of home healthcare services would enable patients to receive care in their own homes.

The Prostate Cancer Score is a dynamic assessment. As healthcare infrastructure and *transportation* options evolve, the score will need to be updated. The goal is to provide residents and prospective movers with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and accessible as possible.