17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.67 percent of residents in 17021 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 17.06 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Waterford (ZIP Code 17021)

The specter of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding timely and accessible healthcare. For residents of East Waterford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17021), the journey to potentially life-saving treatment is a multifaceted consideration, intricately woven with the threads of transportation and healthcare access. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, dissecting the practical realities of reaching critical medical resources, thereby informing individuals considering moving to East Waterford or seeking care within its vicinity.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the available transportation options. East Waterford, a rural community nestled in Juniata County, presents a unique landscape for navigating healthcare access. Unlike urban centers with readily available public transit and a plethora of medical facilities, the residents of 17021 face a more complex transportation equation.

**The Road to Care: Drive Times and Highways**

For many, the primary mode of transportation will be the automobile. The driving times to the nearest comprehensive cancer care centers become paramount. The most direct route to Harrisburg, the state capital, involves navigating the winding roads and highways. Expect a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to the UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The primary route involves taking Route 75 South, connecting to Route 322 East. Route 322 then merges with Interstate 81 South, leading directly into Harrisburg.

Another option, though potentially longer, is to travel to Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill, a suburb of Harrisburg. This journey, utilizing a combination of Route 75 South, Route 322 East, and the Carlisle Pike (Route 11/15), could take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. These estimates are crucial for patients requiring frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The time spent in transit can significantly impact a patient's physical and emotional well-being, underscoring the importance of considering the distance when planning for care.

Beyond Harrisburg, the potential for specialized care might necessitate longer drives. Hershey Medical Center, renowned for its comprehensive cancer services, is approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, primarily via Route 322 East and Route 422 East. This extended travel time must be factored into treatment plans, particularly for those requiring complex procedures or consultations with specialists.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While the primary highways are generally well-maintained, the rural roads leading to them can be subject to weather-related hazards, especially during the winter months. This underscores the need for contingency plans and reliable vehicle maintenance.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within and around East Waterford are severely limited. Juniata County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly hinders healthcare access for those who do not drive or are unable to drive due to medical conditions or other limitations.

The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on other transportation solutions. The lack of accessible public transit is a critical factor impacting the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisburg area, but their presence in East Waterford is less reliable. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments a risky proposition.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Services of Pennsylvania (MTS) and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as medical necessity or financial assistance. They are crucial for individuals who cannot drive and lack access to family or friends for transportation. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some patients.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

The availability of local medical facilities is also a critical factor. East Waterford itself does not have a hospital or comprehensive cancer treatment center. Residents typically rely on primary care physicians and specialists located in nearby towns or in Harrisburg. This underscores the importance of establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician who can provide referrals and coordinate care.

The proximity of cancer screening facilities is also important. Regular mammograms are crucial for early detection. The nearest facilities offering mammograms are likely located in Harrisburg or surrounding areas. This necessitates planning for regular screenings and understanding the associated transportation logistics.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Moving to East Waterford**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for East Waterford, considering the factors discussed, presents a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, healthcare access is significantly impacted by transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals seeking timely and convenient access to cancer care.

For individuals considering moving to East Waterford, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their access to a reliable vehicle, and their willingness to utilize medical transportation services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for East Waterford would be improved by increased availability of public transportation, improved access to ride-sharing services, and potentially, the establishment of a satellite clinic or a mobile screening unit. Until then, careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access are paramount for residents of 17021. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is inextricably linked to the ability to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The journey to healthcare in East Waterford requires careful consideration of these factors, making the "Breast Cancer Score" a crucial element in assessing the community's suitability for those seeking or needing breast cancer care.