17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.32 percent of residents in 17044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.81 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and decisive action. For residents of Lewistown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17044), the journey to quality healthcare, particularly for specialized breast cancer services, is a critical consideration. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the accessibility of care, factoring in transportation challenges and opportunities, providing a comprehensive view for current and prospective residents. Evaluating healthcare access is paramount when making significant life decisions, such as moving to Lewistown.

Lewistown, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The town's relative isolation necessitates careful planning for those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. While the community offers a sense of serenity, the reality of healthcare access requires thoughtful examination. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the time and effort involved in accessing vital medical services, empowering individuals to make informed choices.

The primary artery connecting Lewistown to regional healthcare hubs is **US Route 322**, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Driving east, towards Harrisburg, presents the most significant concentration of advanced medical facilities. However, the drive can be deceptive. While the distance might appear manageable, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Expect a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major regional medical center. This journey involves navigating **US Route 322** and the **US Route 22/322** split, followed by the **I-83** corridor. Similarly, the drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, another prominent healthcare provider, also averages around 1 hour and 15 minutes, largely following the same route.

Westward travel on **US Route 322** leads to State College, home to Mount Nittany Medical Center. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering an alternative, though less specialized, option. These drive times are estimates and can vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination within the medical complex.

Public transportation options in Lewistown are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but routes are primarily designed for local travel and do not offer direct, reliable connections to major healthcare facilities outside of the immediate Lewistown area. The MCTA's website details route information, including any ADA-accessible features. However, relying solely on public transit for frequent medical appointments, especially for cancer treatment, would likely prove challenging due to the travel times and limited service frequency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Lewistown. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate. While these services offer a convenient option, especially for those unable to drive, the expense can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The cost of ride-sharing should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. These services, provided by companies like CareRide or MedRide, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. They often offer door-to-door service and are equipped to handle patients with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than standard ride-sharing.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lewistown, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation to specialized medical centers is a significant factor. The limited public transportation options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services impact the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Lewistown, the proximity to healthcare facilities should be a key consideration. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the distance to specialized breast cancer services necessitates careful planning. The need for reliable transportation, whether personal or through alternative means, is paramount.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating, but rather a tool to assess the ease of accessing healthcare. It highlights the importance of proactive planning and understanding the transportation landscape. This includes researching medical facilities, understanding insurance coverage, and exploring transportation options.

This assessment underscores the necessity of prioritizing healthcare access. The journey to recovery from breast cancer requires not only medical expertise but also the ability to navigate the complexities of transportation. Understanding the realities of healthcare access is a critical step in ensuring timely and effective care.

In essence, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Lewistown emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. It encourages individuals to consider the transportation challenges and opportunities when assessing healthcare access. By understanding the landscape, residents can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the care they deserve.