17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.12 percent of residents in 17007 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 5.00 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Boiling Springs, PA (ZIP Code 17007)**

The journey to effective breast cancer care is multifaceted, encompassing not only the quality of medical professionals and treatment options but also the ease with which a patient can access them. This "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania, evaluates the transportation landscape, recognizing that reliable *transportation* is a critical determinant of *healthcare access* and overall well-being, particularly for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. This analysis is especially relevant for those *moving to Boiling Springs*, seeking a comprehensive understanding of local resources.

Boiling Springs, a charming community nestled in South Central Pennsylvania, offers a tranquil setting, but its relative remoteness presents unique *transportation* challenges. While the area boasts a strong sense of community, the availability of specialized medical services, particularly those related to breast cancer, necessitates travel to larger regional centers. This report examines the various *transportation* options available to residents of 17007, assessing their accessibility, reliability, and suitability for individuals facing the physical and emotional demands of breast cancer treatment.

The primary artery connecting Boiling Springs to larger population centers is the US-11, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving to Harrisburg, approximately 20 miles north, is typically a 30- to 45-minute journey, depending on traffic. This route provides access to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, a comprehensive medical facility offering oncology services. Further north, a drive along US-11 and then I-81 offers access to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, approximately 40 miles away, a facility renowned for its cancer research and treatment programs.

West of Boiling Springs, PA-174 provides access to Carlisle, a smaller town with some medical facilities. However, for specialized breast cancer care, Harrisburg and Hershey remain the primary destinations. The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can occasionally impact travel times, underscoring the need for reliable *transportation* alternatives.

Public *transportation* options in 17007 are limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which serves the Harrisburg area, does not directly extend into Boiling Springs. While a resident might use CAT to reach Harrisburg, it would require a combination of *transportation* methods, including a drive to a park-and-ride location. This would not be suitable for a patient undergoing treatment.

The lack of robust public *transportation* significantly impacts *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles. Individuals reliant on public transit may face significant barriers in attending appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing support services. This deficiency highlights the importance of alternative *transportation* solutions, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Boiling Springs area. However, their reliability and affordability can vary. Demand surges during peak hours, and availability might be limited in rural areas. The cost of frequent rides to Harrisburg or Hershey for appointments can quickly become a financial burden, especially for patients facing significant medical expenses.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door *transportation*, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several national and regional medical *transportation* providers operate in the area, including, but not limited to, CareRide and LogistiCare. These companies typically require advance booking and may have limitations regarding insurance coverage.

For those *moving to Boiling Springs* with breast cancer or a high risk of developing it, careful consideration of *transportation* options is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant. While the drive times to major medical centers are generally manageable, unforeseen circumstances, such as car trouble or inclement weather, can create significant challenges.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 17007 reflects the reality of *healthcare access* in a rural setting. While the community offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning. Patients and their families should research the availability of medical *transportation* services, explore potential financial assistance programs, and consider the proximity of support networks when making healthcare decisions.

The score also underscores the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family can play a crucial role in providing *transportation* assistance, offering rides to appointments, and providing emotional support. Establishing these support networks is essential for navigating the challenges of breast cancer treatment in a community with limited *transportation* infrastructure.

Moreover, the score highlights the need for ongoing advocacy for improved *transportation* options. Local and regional initiatives to expand public *transportation* services or subsidize ride-sharing programs could significantly improve *healthcare access* for residents of 17007. Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical *transportation* services and ensuring their affordability is crucial.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Boiling Springs, PA, reveals a mixed landscape. While the drive times to major medical centers are reasonable, the lack of public *transportation* and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services present significant challenges. For those *moving to Boiling Springs* or currently residing there, careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and a strong community support system are essential for ensuring adequate *healthcare access* and a positive treatment experience. The score emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to improve *transportation* infrastructure and support services, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals battling breast cancer.