17022, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17022, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.94 percent of residents in 17022 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 8.24 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 17022)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17022), the ability to reach vital medical services is a crucial factor in their overall well-being. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, dissecting the avenues available to navigate the journey to healthcare, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport options. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access, helping individuals understand the realities of moving to Elizabethtown and its impact on their health.

Elizabethtown, nestled in Lancaster County, offers a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger urban centers. However, the transportation infrastructure, a critical component of healthcare access, requires careful consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" evaluates the ease with which individuals can reach essential services like mammography, oncology, and surgical centers.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Elizabethtown's location provides relatively straightforward access to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for travel are Route 283, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Route 743, which provides north-south connectivity.

Reaching Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a regional powerhouse for cancer care, requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically involves taking Route 283 East to the Harrisburg Expressway (I-83) North. The drive is generally smooth, but rush hour can significantly impact travel times.

For those seeking care at UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster, the drive is roughly 30-40 minutes, predominantly utilizing Route 283 East. This facility offers a comprehensive range of cancer services, including radiation therapy and surgical oncology.

Local healthcare providers, such as the WellSpan Elizabethtown Hospital, are within a 5-10 minute drive, making routine screenings and follow-up appointments highly accessible. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents, particularly those requiring frequent visits.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

Public transportation options in Elizabethtown, while available, are limited. The primary provider is the Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA), which operates a bus network throughout Lancaster County. However, the frequency of service and route coverage in Elizabethtown is less robust compared to larger urban areas.

The availability of public transit to major cancer centers is a crucial element of the "Breast Cancer Score." While the RRTA does provide service within Elizabethtown, direct routes to Hershey Medical Center or UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster are not readily available. This necessitates transfers and potentially longer travel times.

The RRTA strives to provide ADA-accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. Individuals with mobility limitations should verify the availability and suitability of specific routes before planning their journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. Availability in Elizabethtown is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. Ride-sharing provides a convenient option for appointments, but it's essential to factor in potential wait times and costs.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. They are particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment or facing mobility challenges. Brands like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are commonly used.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the transportation landscape. It considers the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services.

For those moving to Elizabethtown, the score highlights the importance of having a personal vehicle. While ride-sharing and medical transport offer alternatives, they may not be as readily available or cost-effective as driving.

The score also emphasizes the need for careful planning. Patients should familiarize themselves with the transportation options available to them and factor in travel times, potential delays, and associated costs.

**Conclusion: A Path to Empowerment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Elizabethtown (ZIP Code 17022) provides a critical understanding of healthcare access. While the area offers convenient access to local healthcare facilities, reaching regional cancer centers requires careful planning and consideration of available transportation options. The ability to navigate this landscape effectively is paramount for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. By understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and alternative transportation resources, residents can proactively manage their healthcare journey and empower themselves with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. The goal is to ensure that transportation does not become a barrier to accessing timely and essential healthcare, promoting better outcomes and overall well-being for those moving to Elizabethtown.