17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.91 percent of residents in 17959 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 4.48 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Philadelphia, PA (ZIP Code 17959)

Considering a move to New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and concerned about prostate cancer healthcare access? This analysis provides a detailed assessment of transportation options available within and around ZIP code 17959, aiming to help you understand the realities of accessing potentially life-saving medical care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, all crucial factors in determining your personal "Prostate Cancer Score" for this area.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a personalized assessment of your ability to reach necessary healthcare appointments, considering your individual mobility and preferences. This write-up offers the information needed to create your own score, factoring in your comfort level with various modes of transportation and the distances involved.

**Driving Your Way to Wellness:**

For many residents of New Philadelphia, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is paramount. The closest major medical center, Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, located in Orwigsburg, presents a typical drive of approximately 20-30 minutes. This journey predominantly utilizes **Route 209**, a well-maintained highway offering a relatively straightforward commute. Traffic congestion is generally minimal, except during peak hours.

Further afield, but offering specialized services, is Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill, located in Pottsville. This drive, averaging 15-20 minutes, primarily involves **Route 209** and **Route 61**. While generally smooth, potential delays can arise during rush hour, especially near Pottsville. Consider your appointment times carefully to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure timely arrival.

For those seeking treatment at the Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center in Reading, the drive becomes significantly longer, approximately 45-60 minutes. This route primarily involves **Route 61** and **Interstate 78**. While the interstate offers higher speeds, potential for delays increases, especially during inclement weather or accidents. Factor in extra travel time for this longer journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in New Philadelphia are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout Schuylkill County, but its routes and frequency may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments.

STS Route 32, for example, serves the New Philadelphia area, connecting to Pottsville and other towns. However, the schedules are often infrequent, and direct routes to hospitals may not always be available. This necessitates transfers, adding to the travel time and complexity.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. STS strives to provide accessible buses, but confirming availability and suitability for your specific needs is essential. Contact STS directly to inquire about accessible features on specific routes and plan accordingly. This is especially important if mobility is a concern, as you will need to ensure the bus can accommodate your needs.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the New Philadelphia area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, availability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for time-sensitive medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, offer a crucial service for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring assistance. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to appointments.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands may serve the area. Researching local providers, checking their availability, and understanding their pricing structure is crucial. Consider the specific services offered, such as wheelchair accessibility, stretcher transport, and the ability to transport oxygen or other medical equipment.

**Considering Your Personal Score:**

To calculate your personal "Prostate Cancer Score," consider the following:

* **Your Mobility:** Assess your ability to drive, use public transportation, or utilize ride-sharing services.
* **Appointment Frequency:** Estimate how often you’ll need to travel for appointments (e.g., regular checkups, radiation therapy).
* **Comfort Level:** Evaluate your comfort level with each transportation option.
* **Financial Considerations:** Factor in the cost of transportation (gas, ride-sharing fees, medical transport).
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the distance to your preferred healthcare providers.

**Moving to New Philadelphia: A Balanced Perspective:**

New Philadelphia offers a pleasant, small-town atmosphere, but healthcare access, particularly for specialized services, requires careful consideration. While driving provides the most direct access, the limited public transit options and the potential for longer drives to specialized care facilities are important factors.

Before making a move, thoroughly research the availability and reliability of transportation options. Contact STS to inquire about specific route schedules and ADA accessibility. Investigate local ride-sharing availability and medical transport services.

Ultimately, your "Prostate Cancer Score" will reflect your ability to confidently navigate the transportation landscape and access the healthcare you need. This assessment provides a starting point for your research, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether New Philadelphia is the right place for you. The goal is to ensure that **healthcare access** remains a priority, allowing you to maintain your health and well-being.