18625, Lake Winola, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18625, Lake Winola, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.61 percent of residents in 18625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 11.96 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 18625

Considering a move to the tranquil shores of Lake Winola in ZIP Code 18625? This picturesque region offers a slower pace of life, but before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to assess healthcare access, particularly for men concerned about prostate cancer. This write-up provides a “Prostate Cancer Score” by evaluating transportation options to medical facilities equipped for diagnosis and treatment, ensuring informed decisions about your health and well-being.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” considers the time and ease of reaching urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers. This score is not a formal medical assessment, but a practical guide to understanding the logistical challenges of healthcare access in your new community. Factors include drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all essential considerations for men seeking timely and comprehensive prostate cancer care.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Travel Times**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 18625 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rural nature of the area means public transportation is limited. Your journey to specialized medical care will likely begin on **Route 309**, a major north-south thoroughfare. This road offers the most direct route to Wilkes-Barre, a regional hub for medical services.

Expect a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a facility with comprehensive cancer care. This drive, however, can be significantly impacted by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. Navigating **Route 309** during these times requires patience.

Alternatively, consider traveling east on **Route 487** and connecting to **Interstate 81**. This route offers a slightly longer drive, but can sometimes bypass traffic congestion on **Route 309**. This option may be preferable if you are heading to facilities located further south, such as those in Scranton.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is generally adequate, but it is always wise to factor in extra time for parking and navigating the facilities, especially if mobility is a concern. The drive to Scranton, home to the Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, could take up to an hour.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 18625 are limited, significantly impacting the "Prostate Cancer Score." The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve the more densely populated areas. Access to LCTA routes from Lake Winola is challenging.

The nearest LCTA bus routes are accessible from **Route 309**, but the frequency of service is not ideal for regular medical appointments. Check the LCTA website for route schedules and accessibility features. While some buses are ADA-accessible, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for regular medical appointments, especially for those with mobility limitations or needing to travel to multiple locations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the 18625 area, but their reliability and availability can vary. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can be significant, potentially impacting your ability to reach appointments on time. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services offer a specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance. Companies such as Med-Trans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and can be more costly than ride-sharing, but they offer a reliable option for patients needing transportation to and from medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Score**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 18625 reflects a mixed picture. While the region offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges for healthcare access. The drive times to specialized medical facilities are manageable, but traffic and weather conditions can impact travel.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative options, but these services come with potential drawbacks, including cost and availability. This score emphasizes the importance of careful planning and preparation for those considering a move to Lake Winola.

**Moving to Lake Winola: Planning for Healthcare**

If you are considering moving to Lake Winola, it is vital to assess your healthcare needs and plan accordingly. Research the availability of urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy centers in the surrounding areas. Consider the accessibility of these facilities and the transportation options available to you.

Factor in the potential costs of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services. Discuss your healthcare needs with your primary care physician and explore the possibility of telehealth appointments for routine check-ups.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Your Health**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 18625 highlights the importance of proactive planning for healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation challenges require careful consideration. By understanding the available options and planning ahead, you can ensure timely access to the care you need. This approach allows you to embrace the tranquility of Lake Winola while prioritizing your health and well-being.