19081, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19081, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.51 percent of residents in 19081 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 3.06 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19081

Considering a move to the charming borough of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19081)? Beyond the idyllic tree-lined streets and prestigious Swarthmore College, prospective residents must assess crucial factors, including healthcare access. This write-up focuses on the prostate cancer healthcare landscape, analyzing transportation options to facilities offering diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those prioritizing convenient and efficient healthcare.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical metric but a qualitative assessment of accessibility. It weighs the ease of getting to specialized medical centers, considering the various transportation modes available. This analysis will be particularly relevant for men considering a move, especially those with a family history or personal concerns about prostate health. The goal is to empower informed decision-making, ensuring that access to potentially life-saving care is a primary consideration.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of 19081, the automobile remains a primary mode of transportation. Several major hospitals and cancer centers are within a reasonable driving distance, offering comprehensive prostate cancer care. Driving times, however, are heavily influenced by traffic, particularly during peak hours.

The closest major hospital is **Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Upland, PA, reachable via **PA-320 South** and **I-95 North**. The drive is typically 15-20 minutes, but during rush hour, this could stretch to 30 minutes or more. Crozer-Chester offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

**Penn Presbyterian Medical Center** in Philadelphia, a major academic medical center, is another option. The journey involves navigating **PA-320 North** to **US-1 North (City Avenue)**, then onto **34th Street**. This drive, without traffic, is approximately 25-35 minutes. Penn Presbyterian boasts a renowned prostate cancer program, offering advanced treatments and clinical trials.

Further afield, **Thomas Jefferson University Hospital** in Center City Philadelphia is accessible via **PA-320 North** to **I-76 East (Schuylkill Expressway)**. This route, usually taking 35-45 minutes, can become significantly longer during rush hour, especially along the Schuylkill Expressway. Jefferson offers cutting-edge prostate cancer care, including robotic surgery and innovative therapies.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Buses**

For those preferring public transit, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides several options. The **Media/Wawa Regional Rail Line** has a station in Swarthmore, offering a direct route to Center City Philadelphia. From there, connections can be made to hospitals like Jefferson and Penn Presbyterian via SEPTA bus routes or a short taxi/ride-share.

The train ride to Center City is approximately 30-40 minutes. However, the walk from the train stations to the hospitals can be significant, requiring careful consideration for those with mobility limitations. The Media/Wawa line does offer ADA-accessible features, including elevators and ramps.

SEPTA bus routes also serve the area. The **Route 109** bus connects Swarthmore to the Delaware County Community College, providing access to other transportation options. The **Route 114** provides service to Chester, PA, with connections to other bus lines and the Crozer-Chester Medical Center. ADA accessibility varies across bus routes, so it's essential to confirm features before planning a trip.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives for transportation. They are readily available in Swarthmore and provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or parking. The cost, however, can vary depending on demand and distance.

For individuals requiring medical transportation, several specialized services are available. **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and **LogistiCare** are prominent providers that contract with insurance companies to provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-authorization and may be limited to specific medical needs.

Other options include private medical transportation companies, such as **CareRide** or **First Transit**. These services offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate various mobility needs. They often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Assessing the Score: A Holistic View**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 19081 is relatively favorable. While driving times to major hospitals can be affected by traffic, multiple transportation options exist. The proximity of the Media/Wawa Regional Rail Line provides a direct route to Philadelphia, with connections to renowned medical centers. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies further enhance accessibility.

However, the score isn't perfect. Public transit can be time-consuming, and the walk from train stations to hospitals may pose a challenge for some. Traffic congestion remains a significant factor, particularly during peak hours. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation should also be considered.

**Moving to Swarthmore: Healthcare Access as a Priority**

For those considering a move to Swarthmore, prioritizing healthcare access is paramount. While the borough offers a desirable quality of life, the proximity and accessibility of specialized medical care, including prostate cancer treatment, should be carefully evaluated.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Prospective residents should research specific hospitals, assess their insurance coverage, and consider their individual mobility needs. By carefully weighing these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about whether Swarthmore is the right fit for their healthcare needs. The "Prostate Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning, ensuring that access to potentially life-saving care remains a top priority when choosing a new home.