18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.58 percent of residents in 18826 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 17.00 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18826 (Kingsley, PA)**

The quaint borough of Kingsley, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18826), nestled in the verdant embrace of Susquehanna County, offers a tranquil existence. Yet, for residents facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, the serenity of Kingsley must contend with the practicalities of accessing specialized healthcare. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, determining the Prostate Cancer Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching crucial medical appointments. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Kingsley or already residing there.

Kingsley's Prostate Cancer Score is significantly influenced by its rural setting. While the area boasts natural beauty, access to advanced medical care, particularly oncology services, is not readily available within the borough itself. This necessitates travel, making transportation a critical factor in the patient journey. The score reflects the time, cost, and convenience associated with reaching essential appointments, including consultations, diagnostic tests, treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation for most Kingsley residents is the personal vehicle. The road network, however, presents some challenges. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways. The primary artery is Pennsylvania Route 29, which snakes north and south, connecting Kingsley to larger towns and cities. Heading south on Route 29, one can access Scranton, approximately a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city.

The journey to Geisinger Commonwealth Cancer Institute in Scranton, a prominent cancer treatment center, is a crucial consideration. The drive involves navigating Route 29, then potentially connecting to Interstate 81 for a quicker route, though this might add mileage. Alternatively, one could utilize Route 6, a major east-west highway, though this could add significant travel time.

The drive time to major hospitals like Moses Taylor Hospital and Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, where urology and oncology departments are located, is a key factor. The Prostate Cancer Score will reflect the average drive time, considering potential traffic congestion during peak hours. Residents must account for these variables when scheduling appointments and planning their daily routines.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Kingsley and the surrounding areas are limited. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Prostate Cancer Score. Susquehanna County does have a public transit system, but its routes and schedules may not be conducive to regular medical appointments, especially for cancer treatment which often requires frequent visits.

The lack of direct bus routes to major medical centers in Scranton and other cities necessitates multiple transfers or long travel times. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. Information regarding bus routes, schedules, and ADA features must be readily accessible and reliable for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can be variable, particularly in rural locations like Kingsley. The Prostate Cancer Score must reflect the potential for delays or cancellations, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients, particularly those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transport services offer a dedicated option for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service and are equipped to handle patients with mobility issues. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, but availability and cost vary. Researching and securing reliable medical transport is vital for those unable to drive or utilize public transit.

**Healthcare Access and the Patient Journey**

The Prostate Cancer Score directly impacts the patient's healthcare access. The ability to reach appointments on time, consistently, and with minimal stress is paramount. Delays or difficulties in transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased anxiety.

The Prostate Cancer Score must consider the overall patient journey, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating the transportation landscape at each stage of the process. The availability of support services, such as transportation assistance programs offered by hospitals or cancer support organizations, is also a factor.

**Moving to Kingsley: Considerations**

For individuals considering moving to Kingsley, the Prostate Cancer Score should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the borough offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with accessing specialized healthcare must be carefully weighed. Prospective residents with a history of prostate cancer or a family history of the disease should thoroughly research the transportation options and healthcare facilities available in the region.

The Prostate Cancer Score provides a snapshot of the transportation landscape, highlighting the potential barriers to healthcare access. It is a critical tool for residents, prospective residents, and healthcare providers seeking to improve the patient experience in Kingsley.

**Conclusion: The Prostate Cancer Score**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Kingsley, PA (ZIP code 18826) reflects the transportation challenges faced by residents needing specialized cancer care. The score considers drive times, the limitations of public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services.

The score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change based on factors such as improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the establishment of new healthcare facilities in the region.

The goal of the Prostate Cancer Score is to provide a clear and concise understanding of the transportation landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their lives. The score underscores the importance of careful planning, proactive research, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents of Kingsley have equitable access to the care they need.