17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.17 percent of residents in 17045 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 19.43 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Liverpool, PA (ZIP Code 17045)**

The quaint borough of Liverpool, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease and practicality of reaching essential medical services from this ZIP code. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Liverpool.

The most significant factor in healthcare access is undoubtedly the proximity to quality medical facilities. In the context of breast cancer, this translates to access to oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapy centers, and comprehensive diagnostic services. For residents of 17045, the primary destinations for these services are in Harrisburg, approximately 40 miles south, and to a lesser extent, Williamsport, about 60 miles north. The journey to these locations is largely dictated by the availability and efficiency of transportation.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting Liverpool to Harrisburg is **Route 11/15**, a major north-south highway. The drive typically takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. Navigating this route is generally straightforward, but the potential for delays due to accidents or construction can significantly impact a patient's schedule, especially when facing time-sensitive treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Alternatively, traveling to Harrisburg involves using **Route 322** east, which eventually connects to **Interstate 81**. This route offers a slightly longer distance but can sometimes be faster, especially if traffic is heavy on **Route 11/15**. However, the **I-81** corridor is known for its potential for congestion and accidents, making it a less reliable option. For those headed north to Williamsport, the journey involves using **Route 11/15** north, which is a more rural drive, but could be affected by inclement weather.

Public transportation options in Liverpool are limited. The primary provider is the Susquehanna Area Regional Transportation Authority (SARATOGA), which operates in the Harrisburg area. However, SARATOGA's services are not directly available in Liverpool. Residents would need to arrange transportation to a SARATOGA hub, significantly extending travel times. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for public transit. SARATOGA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, but the limited service area in relation to Liverpool makes it challenging to utilize these features. The lack of readily accessible public transit impacts individuals with mobility limitations, making it difficult to attend appointments and receive necessary care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Liverpool area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While ride-sharing provides a convenient option for those without personal transportation, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for long-distance trips to Harrisburg, is not guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on patients, especially those undergoing long-term treatment.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance. Companies like LifeLine Ambulance and Med-Ride provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for patients who cannot drive or are unable to use public transportation. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary.

The availability of these services in the Liverpool area is variable, and the distance to Harrisburg or other medical centers can result in long wait times. The availability of medical transport is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance.

The Breast Cancer Score for Liverpool (ZIP Code 17045) is a composite measure, reflecting the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services.

**Drive Time:** The primary reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion on **Route 11/15** and **I-81** contribute to a moderate score. The drive time to Harrisburg is typically 45 minutes to an hour, which is acceptable but can be impacted by unforeseen delays.

**Public Transit:** The absence of direct public transit service significantly lowers the score. The need to travel to a SARATOGA hub adds significant travel time and inconvenience.

**Ride-Sharing:** The availability of Uber and Lyft provides a supplementary option, but the variable availability and cost impact the score.

**Medical Transport:** The availability of medical transport services, while beneficial, is limited by cost and availability.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score:** Considering these factors, the Breast Cancer Score for Liverpool (ZIP Code 17045) is moderate. While driving is the primary option, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport for those without personal vehicles create significant challenges. Individuals considering moving to Liverpool should carefully assess their transportation needs and access to healthcare services.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static measure. The evolving healthcare landscape, including potential improvements in public transit or the expansion of ride-sharing services, could positively impact the score. Furthermore, the development of telemedicine and remote patient monitoring technologies could mitigate some of the transportation challenges by enabling patients to receive some care from the comfort of their homes.

For residents of Liverpool, the key to improving healthcare access lies in proactive planning. This includes understanding the transportation options, exploring insurance coverage for medical transport, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and treatments. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for assessing the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in this unique community.