17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.55 percent of residents in 17005 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 23.29 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Berrysburg (ZIP Code 17005)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one, fraught with emotional and physical challenges. The ability to access timely and appropriate medical care is paramount, and the ease with which one can reach these vital services is a significant factor in the overall experience. This analysis, tailored to the residents of Berrysburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17005), aims to illuminate the transportation landscape surrounding breast cancer care, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on accessibility. This score will help assess the ease with which residents can access essential services, impacting their well-being and quality of life.

For those considering moving to Berrysburg, understanding this "Breast Cancer Score" is crucial. It provides insight into the practicality of accessing medical appointments, treatments, and support groups, all critical components of the breast cancer journey. This information can inform decisions about relocation, ensuring that healthcare access aligns with individual needs and circumstances.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Berrysburg and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities. Residents will likely utilize several roadways, including State Route 225, a vital artery connecting Berrysburg to larger towns and cities. Traveling eastward on Route 225 provides access to facilities in Millersburg, while westward travel leads to Harrisburg.

The drive to Harrisburg, the regional hub for advanced medical care, typically involves a combination of Route 225 and the more significant Interstate 81. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive to Harrisburg can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. This drive time is crucial, as it represents the potential delay in accessing specialized treatments, diagnostic procedures, and consultations with oncologists and surgeons.

Other routes, such as Route 147, may also be utilized, particularly for accessing facilities in nearby communities. However, these roads are often smaller and more winding, potentially increasing travel time and adding to the stress of medical appointments. Understanding these drive times is the first step in evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score."

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Berrysburg are limited. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT), which operates a network of bus routes throughout the Harrisburg area. However, the reach of CAT into Berrysburg and the surrounding rural areas is minimal.

The availability of public transit is a critical consideration for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to medical conditions or other limitations. The lack of readily available public transportation can significantly hinder healthcare access, particularly for those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, which often require frequent visits to medical facilities.

ADA accessibility is a critical component of public transportation, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the services. While CAT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the limited routes and frequency of service in the Berrysburg area may still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the limitations of public transit in the region.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, providing on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Berrysburg can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in the more rural areas. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several medical transport brands serve the Harrisburg area, and residents of Berrysburg can potentially utilize these services. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services should be carefully considered when evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score."

**Healthcare Facilities: The Destination**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. Residents of Berrysburg will likely rely on facilities in Harrisburg, including hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center. These hospitals offer comprehensive breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Smaller clinics and medical practices in nearby towns, such as Millersburg and Elizabethville, may also provide some services, such as primary care and mammograms. However, specialized treatments and advanced care typically require travel to Harrisburg. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the proximity of these facilities and the ease with which residents can reach them.

**The "Breast Cancer Score": A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite measure, integrating the factors discussed above. It considers drive times to key healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, the accessibility of ride-share and medical transport services, and the proximity of healthcare providers. The score will range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 10 representing the easiest.

Factors that will negatively impact the score include:

* Long drive times to major medical centers.
* Limited public transportation options.
* Inconsistent availability and high cost of ride-share services.
* Lack of medical transport options.

Factors that will positively impact the score include:

* Short drive times to comprehensive breast cancer care facilities.
* Reliable public transportation options.
* Affordable and readily available ride-share services.
* Access to medical transport services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Berrysburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17005) is estimated to be a 4. This score reflects the challenges associated with transportation in a rural area, including long drive times, limited public transit, and the potential for inconsistent ride-share availability. While residents have access to quality healthcare, the journey to access it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. This score provides a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and those considering moving to Berrysburg, ensuring that they are fully informed about the realities of healthcare access in the community. The ongoing evaluation of transportation infrastructure and the development of innovative solutions are critical to improving the "Breast Cancer Score" and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.