17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.08 percent of residents in 17934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gilberton, PA (ZIP Code 17934)

Deciding where to live involves a complex calculus, weighing factors from cost of living to community vibe. For men, especially those approaching or navigating the realities of prostate cancer, a crucial consideration is healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Gilberton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17934), analyzing transportation options and their impact on accessing potentially life-saving care. This assessment considers the journey to specialists, treatment centers, and diagnostic facilities, providing a clearer picture for those considering moving to Gilberton.

Gilberton, nestled within Schuylkill County, offers a charming, close-knit community. However, its rural location presents challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities with urology and oncology services are located in larger towns, necessitating reliance on various transportation methods. The "Prostate Cancer Score" assesses the ease and efficiency of these transportation options, offering a practical guide for residents and prospective movers.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access is the distance to medical facilities. The closest hospital with a urology department is typically Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill, in Pottsville, approximately 8 miles away. This drive usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves taking **PA-924 South** and then **Route 61 South**. While the drive itself is relatively short, potential delays due to accidents or road work on these highways can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.

For more specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients often need to travel further. The Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, offering comprehensive cancer treatment, is about 50 miles away, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via **Interstate 81 North**. This longer journey underscores the importance of reliable transportation, especially for frequent appointments and extended treatment regimens.

Public transportation options in Gilberton are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus services throughout the county. However, service to Gilberton is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect to major medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, is a critical consideration. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility can be found on the STS website or by contacting their customer service. This limitation in public transit significantly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score" as it reduces options for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Schuylkill County area, but their reliability and availability in Gilberton can be variable. The presence of these services offers a potential alternative, especially for those unable to drive or lacking access to a personal vehicle. However, the cost of ride-sharing, particularly for longer distances to hospitals in Pottsville or Danville, can be a significant financial burden. This cost factor further influences the overall "Prostate Cancer Score."

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, provide another avenue for accessing healthcare. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While medical transport is a valuable resource, it typically comes at a higher cost than other transportation options. Researching and comparing the services offered by different medical transport providers is essential for those who require them.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" must also consider the impact of weather conditions. Schuylkill County experiences harsh winters, with snow and ice often affecting road conditions. This can lead to delays and increase the risk of accidents, especially for those driving to medical appointments. The availability of reliable transportation, including services that can operate safely in inclement weather, is therefore a critical factor.

For individuals considering moving to Gilberton, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights several key considerations. While the community offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access requires careful planning. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic all contribute to a lower score.

The score is also influenced by the availability of local primary care physicians. Having a primary care physician in Gilberton or nearby is crucial for early detection and ongoing management of prostate health. Regular screenings, such as PSA tests and digital rectal exams, are essential for early detection of prostate cancer. The proximity and accessibility of a primary care physician significantly impact the overall healthcare experience.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not just about distance; it's about the ease, affordability, and reliability of transportation. It's about ensuring that individuals can access the care they need, when they need it. Moving to Gilberton requires a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Researching local medical providers, understanding the transportation options, and considering the potential impact of weather and traffic are all essential steps.

To improve the "Prostate Cancer Score," the community could benefit from increased public transportation options, particularly routes connecting Gilberton to major medical facilities. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transport services and their availability would enhance healthcare access for those who need it.

In conclusion, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Gilberton, PA (ZIP Code 17934) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the distance to medical facilities and the limited transportation options require careful consideration, particularly for men concerned about prostate health. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements before making a move, ensuring they can access the care they deserve. The score serves as a valuable tool, promoting informed decision-making and encouraging proactive healthcare planning for those considering moving to Gilberton.