19112, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 19112, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 19112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Hospital with a distance of 3.83 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19112**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as prostate cancer, is a complex one. For residents of ZIP Code 19112, encompassing the heart of Northeast Philadelphia, understanding the landscape of transportation and healthcare access is paramount. This analysis provides a Prostate Cancer Score, a personalized assessment of the ease with which one can navigate the system, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport. This is especially relevant for anyone considering moving to Philadelphia, seeking healthcare, or simply understanding their options.

The score is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality, but rather a gauge of the practical hurdles one might face when seeking prostate cancer care within and beyond the 19112 area. It considers the time, cost, and effort involved in reaching crucial medical facilities. The higher the score, the greater the ease of access.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Driving remains a significant factor in healthcare access. From 19112, several major hospitals and cancer centers are accessible by car. The primary arteries for travel are the Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), the major north-south corridor, and I-95, offering rapid transit to the city's core and surrounding suburbs.

Driving to Fox Chase Cancer Center, a leading institution, usually takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing Jefferson Health's Torresdale Hospital, a more local option, is typically a 10-minute drive via the Boulevard or Frankford Avenue. For those seeking specialized care at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, anticipate a 30-45 minute commute, largely via I-95 and the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), potentially complicated by rush-hour congestion.

The time commitment increases substantially when considering facilities further afield. Driving to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia, for example, could consume an hour or more, depending on traffic. Parking costs at these facilities are another factor, adding to the overall expense of care.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Philadelphia's public transit system, SEPTA, offers a network of buses, trains, and trolleys, presenting an alternative to driving. In 19112, the primary bus routes are the 24, 28, 56, and 67, connecting residents to major transit hubs. The SEPTA Regional Rail, via the Fox Chase Line, provides direct access to Center City, where many specialized medical facilities are located.

However, public transit presents challenges. Travel times are often significantly longer than driving. The 24 bus, for example, can take 45 minutes to an hour to reach Center City, depending on traffic. The Fox Chase Line is a faster option, but frequency can be an issue, particularly during off-peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. SEPTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, with elevators and ramps available at many stations. However, not all bus routes are fully accessible, and some stations may require longer walks. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that may affect their physical capabilities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for those unable or unwilling to drive. These services are readily available in 19112, providing door-to-door transportation. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further inflate the expense.

Medical transport services, such as MedRide and Liberty Medical Transportation, cater specifically to patients with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

**The Prostate Cancer Score Components:**

The Prostate Cancer Score is formulated based on a weighted average of these factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average time to reach key cancer centers and hospitals.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and convenience of SEPTA routes.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The degree to which transit options are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and affordability of medical transport services.
* **Parking Costs:** The expense of parking at various medical facilities.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each component is assigned a score from 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest degree of ease of access. The components are then weighted based on their relative importance. For example, drive time and public transit accessibility are weighted more heavily than ride-share availability. The final score is then calculated as a weighted average of these component scores.

**The 19112 Prostate Cancer Score:**

Based on this analysis, the Prostate Cancer Score for 19112 is estimated to be a 6.5 out of 10. This score reflects a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. The area benefits from relatively quick access to some local hospitals and cancer centers. However, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the score.

**Considerations for Moving to Philadelphia and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Philadelphia, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of prostate cancer, this analysis provides crucial insights. The 19112 area offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, but it is not without its challenges.

Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Prioritize locations with easy access to hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Transportation Needs:** Assess your ability to drive, utilize public transit, or rely on ride-sharing services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers the cost of transportation and medical care.
* **Accessibility Needs:** If you have mobility issues, prioritize locations with accessible transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in 19112 requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the Prostate Cancer Score highlights the importance of planning and preparation. By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and ride-share options, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. This is especially relevant for those moving to Philadelphia or seeking a better understanding of healthcare access in this vibrant community.