17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.12 percent of residents in 17023 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 21.46 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethville, PA (ZIP Code 17023)**

Elizabethville, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Dauphin County, offers a charming, rural lifestyle. However, for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, for those residing in ZIP code 17023. It explores the complexities of getting to and from vital medical appointments, a significant factor in the overall well-being of those battling this disease.

The cornerstone of this score is the understanding that timely access to healthcare is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly impact prognosis and quality of life. This assessment considers the practical realities of getting to and from healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Elizabethville, as it can influence their healthcare choices.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For residents of Elizabethville, the primary mode of transportation to access specialized breast cancer care is by personal vehicle. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Harrisburg, approximately 40 miles away, and Hershey, about 45 miles. The journey to Harrisburg typically involves taking **Route 209 South** to **Interstate 81 South**. The drive time, under ideal traffic conditions, is approximately 50-60 minutes. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, can extend this travel time considerably.

The route to Hershey, often via **Route 209 South** to **Route 322 East**, presents a similar time commitment, ranging from 55 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This route involves navigating winding rural roads before merging onto more major thoroughfares. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can add to the challenges of transportation.

The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential burden of travel costs, including fuel and parking fees. For those without a personal vehicle, this reliance presents a significant barrier to healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, whose physical condition may make driving difficult or impossible.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Elizabethville and the surrounding areas are severely limited. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)**, the primary public transit provider for the Harrisburg area, does not have regular routes that directly serve Elizabethville. This lack of public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

While CAT does offer a paratransit service, **CAT Paratransit**, designed for individuals with disabilities who cannot use the regular fixed-route bus service, it requires pre-approval and scheduling. This service operates within a defined service area, and its availability for trips to and from Elizabethville is limited. Furthermore, the scheduling process and potential wait times can add to the stress and inconvenience of medical appointments. This is a critical consideration for those with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that can cause fatigue or nausea.

The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score for Elizabethville. It limits healthcare access for those who are unable to drive, creating a significant healthcare disparity. The absence of accessible and affordable public transit options makes it difficult for residents to attend appointments, receive treatment, and maintain regular follow-up care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisburg and Hershey areas. However, their availability in Elizabethville is less reliable. The distance from Elizabethville to these services' primary operational areas can result in longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This can be a significant financial burden for individuals already facing the costs of medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability in Elizabethville may be limited. The cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and medical facilities provide accessible services. However, the limited public transportation options in Elizabethville and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. The accessibility of medical facilities, including parking, waiting areas, and examination rooms, is crucial for ensuring that all patients can receive the care they need.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of accessible transportation options and the accessibility of medical facilities. The lack of readily available public transit, coupled with the potential for limited ride-sharing services, creates a significant hurdle for individuals with mobility impairments.

**The Impact on the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for Elizabethville, PA (ZIP code 17023) is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of readily available public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers to healthcare access.

The drive times to the nearest cancer centers, while manageable, are subject to traffic delays and the potential for inclement weather. The lack of affordable and accessible transportation options can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a decline in the overall quality of care.

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethville, it is essential to carefully consider the transportation challenges. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of planning for transportation needs, including the availability of a reliable vehicle, the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation, and the accessibility of medical facilities.

The challenges faced by residents of Elizabethville in accessing breast cancer care underscore the need for innovative solutions. This includes advocating for improved public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of affordable medical transportation services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Elizabethville, with its rural charm, presents a complex healthcare landscape for those battling breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score, a critical assessment of transportation infrastructure, reveals significant challenges. While the drive times to cancer centers are feasible, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Elizabethville, careful consideration of transportation needs is paramount. Planning for reliable transportation, understanding the potential costs, and ensuring the accessibility of medical facilities are crucial steps in navigating the healthcare landscape and securing the best possible care. This assessment underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for community-based solutions to improve healthcare access for all residents of Elizabethville.