17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.37 percent of residents in 17013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 1.36 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carlisle, PA (ZIP Code 17013)**

Moving to a new town, especially when considering healthcare needs, demands meticulous research. For residents of Carlisle, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17013), understanding healthcare access, specifically concerning breast cancer treatment, is crucial. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating transportation options to relevant medical facilities, offering insights into navigating the healthcare landscape.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a formal medical assessment. Instead, it's a composite of factors impacting access to breast cancer care, including drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative transport options. The score aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey in Carlisle.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Highways and Arterial Roads**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Carlisle is the drive time to medical facilities. The area is served by several major highways and arterial roads. Interstate 81 (I-81) is the primary north-south artery, offering quick access to Harrisburg, where advanced cancer care is available.

Driving south on I-81, a trip to the UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, known for its comprehensive cancer center, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading north on I-81, the drive to Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill is approximately 20-30 minutes. These times are estimates and can fluctuate based on traffic volume, especially during peak commuting hours.

Closer to home, the Carlisle Regional Medical Center, located in Carlisle itself, provides immediate care and diagnostic services. Accessing this facility from most locations within the 17013 ZIP code is relatively straightforward, usually requiring a drive of 5-15 minutes. Route 11, a major commercial thoroughfare, offers direct access to many medical offices and clinics.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) is another option for accessing healthcare facilities. While not directly within the ZIP code, it can be used to reach hospitals further afield. However, tolls and potential congestion should be factored into the travel time.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation in Carlisle, while present, is not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus services, offering a limited network within the area. The availability of public transit to specific healthcare facilities is a critical component of the "Breast Cancer Score."

CAT Route 100, the primary route serving Carlisle, offers connections to some medical offices and clinics. However, direct access to major hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg or Geisinger Holy Spirit is not available. Passengers would likely need to transfer routes, adding to travel time and potentially increasing the burden on individuals undergoing treatment.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. CAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Carlisle. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot drive themselves or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with special needs. Several medical transport brands operate in the Carlisle area.

Care Ride and First Transit are two companies that offer medical transportation services. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the insurance coverage.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" – A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 17013 is best understood as a multi-faceted assessment. It considers the ease of access to care. The score considers the following:

* **Drive Time:** Short drive times to local facilities contribute positively to the score. Longer drive times to specialized centers, while necessary, may negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and accessibility of public transit, especially to major hospitals, are important. Limited public transit options may lower the score.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport options are factored in. Easy access to these services enhances the score.
* **Overall Convenience:** The ease of navigating the transportation network, the availability of parking, and the overall convenience of reaching medical facilities are considered.

**Specific Examples and Considerations**

A resident living near the Carlisle Regional Medical Center will likely have a higher "Breast Cancer Score" due to the ease of access to immediate care. However, that same resident may face a lower score if they need specialized care only available in Harrisburg and rely solely on public transportation.

Someone without a car will face challenges. The score will be lower. The reliance on public transit or ride-sharing will increase travel time and cost.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Carlisle, PA (ZIP code 17013) is not a definitive number. It is a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access. By evaluating drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Moving to Carlisle is an exciting prospect. Understanding the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a starting point for evaluating the available options and planning for future healthcare needs. It emphasizes the importance of researching healthcare facilities and transportation options. It empowers residents to proactively manage their health and well-being.