17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17920, Aristes, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.03 percent of residents in 17920 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 12.18 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Healthcare Access in Aristes, PA (ZIP Code 17920)**

The serene landscapes of Aristes, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 17920, offer a tranquil lifestyle, but the availability of specialized healthcare services, particularly for conditions like prostate cancer, requires careful consideration. This analysis delves into the intricate web of transportation options available to residents seeking diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical resources. For individuals contemplating a move to Aristes, understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers several key elements: the proximity of specialized medical facilities offering urological services, including radiation oncology and surgical expertise; the efficiency and availability of various transportation methods; and the potential impact of travel time and cost on the overall patient experience. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score suggests significant challenges.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many Aristes residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. The journey to specialized prostate cancer care often begins on local roads like Main Street, which connects to Route 901, a vital artery leading towards larger towns and cities. Route 901 then intersects with Interstate 81, a major north-south highway providing access to regional medical centers.

Drive times to these facilities are a critical factor. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 40 miles away, is a leading healthcare provider with a comprehensive urology department. The drive to Danville, primarily via Route 901 and I-80, can take around an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. Another option is Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill in Pottsville, which is about 25 miles away, and can be reached in approximately 40 minutes via Route 901 and Route 61. The shorter commute makes this a more accessible option for some.

However, traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, can significantly extend these travel times. Furthermore, the costs associated with vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access. For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, these challenges are amplified.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Aristes and the surrounding areas are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus services within Schuylkill County. However, these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Aristes.

While STS Route 301 runs through Shenandoah, a town a few miles away, it would still require a transfer to reach hospitals in Pottsville or Danville. The absence of ADA-accessible features on all buses, and the lack of dedicated routes to medical facilities, further restricts the utility of public transit for prostate cancer patients. The necessity for multiple transfers, combined with limited service frequency, makes public transit a less practical solution for time-sensitive medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Aristes can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or lengthy journeys.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Several companies, such as MedRide and CareRide, operate in the area. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required.

**Assessing the Prostate Cancer Score**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Aristes, PA (ZIP code 17920) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, presents challenges for individuals without access to a car. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but these are often subject to cost and availability constraints.

The drive times to specialized medical facilities, while manageable for some, can be significant, particularly considering potential traffic delays. The absence of a dedicated public transit system specifically designed to serve medical needs further complicates the situation.

**Impact on Moving to Aristes**

For individuals considering a move to Aristes, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the availability of specialized medical care, particularly for conditions like prostate cancer, is a significant consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs, consider the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare, and investigate the availability of support services.

Individuals with existing health conditions or those anticipating future medical needs should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation options. Exploring the feasibility of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the potential for support from family or friends is essential.

**Recommendations**

To improve healthcare access for Aristes residents, several recommendations are pertinent. Advocacy for the expansion of public transit services, including the establishment of dedicated routes to medical facilities, would significantly benefit the community. Encouraging partnerships between local organizations and ride-sharing services could enhance the availability and affordability of transportation.

Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those in need could help mitigate the challenges associated with healthcare access. Finally, raising awareness about the importance of prostate cancer screening and early detection, coupled with information about available resources, would empower residents to proactively manage their health.

**Conclusion**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Aristes, PA (ZIP code 17920) reflects a complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the availability of specialized medical care requires careful consideration. By understanding the challenges and exploring potential solutions, residents and prospective newcomers can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the essential healthcare services they need. The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing prostate cancer, demands a comprehensive understanding of the available resources and the ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively.