18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.06 percent of residents in 18403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 4.85 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Archbald, PA (ZIP Code 18403)

The decision to move to a new town, especially with health concerns like prostate cancer, demands a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Archbald, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18403), focuses on the crucial element of transportation, a vital artery connecting residents to essential medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods to paint a clear picture of navigating healthcare in this community.

The diagnosis of prostate cancer often brings with it a constellation of appointments: consultations with urologists, radiation therapy sessions, and regular follow-up visits. The ease with which a patient can access these appointments significantly impacts their overall well-being and treatment adherence. Therefore, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount.

Archbald, nestled in Lackawanna County, presents a unique transportation environment. While not a sprawling metropolis, it's also not a remote wilderness. The proximity to Scranton, a regional hub for healthcare, is a significant advantage, but the realities of getting there need careful consideration.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Archbald are Interstate 81 (I-81) and the more local Route 6. I-81 offers a swift north-south connection, while Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides access to Scranton and surrounding areas. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are crucial.

The Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute, a prominent cancer center in Scranton, is a pivotal destination for prostate cancer patients. From Archbald, a drive to this facility, utilizing Route 6 and often connecting to the Keyser Avenue exit off of I-81, typically takes between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. Morning and evening rush hours, however, can significantly extend this travel time.

Another essential destination is the Moses Taylor Hospital, also located in Scranton. This hospital offers comprehensive medical services, including urology and oncology departments. The drive to Moses Taylor Hospital from Archbald, generally following Route 6, is comparable to the Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute, averaging between 15 to 20 minutes.

Smaller, local clinics and physician offices, often located within Scranton, can be accessed via shorter drives, typically under 15 minutes. However, patients should always factor in potential delays caused by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. The use of GPS navigation systems is highly recommended to optimize travel routes and minimize delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Archbald and the surrounding area is primarily managed by the Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA). While LCTA provides bus services, their coverage in Archbald and access to healthcare facilities is limited.

The primary bus route serving Archbald is Route 21, which connects to Scranton. While this route offers a potential transportation option, the frequency of service is not ideal for regular medical appointments. The buses may not run frequently enough to accommodate the schedules of patients undergoing radiation therapy or other frequent treatments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for patients with mobility limitations. LCTA does provide ADA-compliant buses, but it's crucial for patients to confirm the availability of these buses on specific routes and at specific times. Planning and coordination are essential when relying on public transit for healthcare appointments.

The LCTA website provides detailed route maps, schedules, and information on ADA accessibility. Patients considering public transit should thoroughly review this information and plan their trips well in advance.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Scranton area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Archbald can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Patients should check the availability of ride-sharing services in advance and be prepared for potential wait times. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Scranton area, including Care Ride and Medical Transportation of PA. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. Patients should research these providers and inquire about their services, costs, and availability.

**Moving to Archbald: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Archbald, the "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access. While Archbald's proximity to Scranton offers access to excellent medical facilities, the transportation challenges must be addressed.

Potential residents should assess their individual transportation needs and preferences. Driving remains the most convenient option, but reliance on a personal vehicle requires consideration of traffic patterns, parking availability, and the patient's ability to drive.

For those unable to drive, the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and reliance on alternative transportation methods. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers should be thoroughly investigated.

Furthermore, prospective residents should consider the location of their chosen healthcare providers. Choosing a urologist or oncologist located closer to Archbald can minimize travel times and reduce the burden of transportation.

Finally, individuals should establish a support network, including family, friends, or community resources, to assist with transportation needs. This support can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the healthcare system and ensuring timely access to medical appointments.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Archbald underscores the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing potential challenges, individuals can ensure they receive the timely and effective care they need. The journey to recovery begins with access; therefore, planning is paramount.