Breast Cancer Score

17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.23 percent of residents in 17050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 2.98 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Breast Cancer Score 78
People Score 49
Provider Score 84
Hospital Score 27
Travel Score 75

Closest Hospital - PENN STATE HEALTH HAMPDEN MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 17050 Mechanicsburg Pennsylvania
No Cars 2.66 2.11 5.04
1 Car 15.00 19.09 21.45
2 Cars 48.42 45.36 41.29
3 or More Cars 33.92 33.44 32.22

Vehicular Access in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17050)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, necessitates more than just a doctor’s appointment. It demands reliable and accessible transportation. For residents of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17050), the ability to reach vital medical services is a critical component of their overall health and well-being. This write-up, a “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, explores the transportation landscape, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately informing the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare in this community.

Mechanicsburg, a charming borough nestled in Cumberland County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, the effectiveness of its healthcare infrastructure hinges on the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. A breast cancer diagnosis requires frequent appointments: diagnostic imaging, consultations, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and post-operative care. Transportation challenges can significantly impact treatment adherence and, ultimately, patient outcomes.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and around Mechanicsburg are the major highways. Interstate 81 (I-81) serves as a crucial north-south corridor, offering relatively swift access to larger medical centers in Harrisburg, the state capital, and beyond. Pennsylvania Route 581 (PA-581), the Harrisburg Expressway, provides a direct east-west connection, facilitating travel to and from the city. Pennsylvania Route 11 (PA-11), a more local route, offers alternative access, albeit with potentially slower travel times due to increased traffic and stoplights.

Driving times to key breast cancer healthcare providers in the region vary depending on the destination and time of day. UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital, a prominent healthcare facility, is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive from most parts of Mechanicsburg via PA-11 or the Carlisle Pike (US-11). Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, another major provider, is typically a 15-20 minute drive, primarily via PA-11 or the Harrisburg Expressway (PA-581). For more specialized care or access to research facilities, the drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located approximately 30-45 minutes away via I-81 and PA-322, might be necessary. Rush hour traffic, especially on I-81 and PA-581, can significantly extend these drive times.

Public transportation, while available, presents more complex considerations. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system provides bus service throughout the Harrisburg metropolitan area, including Mechanicsburg. Route 100, the Mechanicsburg-Harrisburg route, offers a direct connection between the borough and downtown Harrisburg. However, bus routes often have limited frequency, particularly on weekends and evenings, potentially making it challenging to schedule appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses are available on all CAT routes, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.

The proximity of bus stops to medical facilities is another factor. While the CAT system does serve the general areas of UPMC Pinnacle West Shore Hospital and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, the walk from the bus stop to the specific clinic or department might be a concern for patients undergoing treatment. Planning for additional travel time and potential assistance for those with mobility limitations is crucial.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services are readily available in Mechanicsburg, providing on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can vary, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. Booking rides in advance is advisable, especially for time-sensitive appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, represent another option. These services, often provided by companies like CareRide or First Transit, offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. While these services can provide a high level of support, they typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs. The availability of medical transportation services can be particularly beneficial for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transit due to physical limitations or treatment side effects.

For individuals considering moving to Mechanicsburg, understanding the transportation landscape is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the proximity of their chosen location to medical facilities, the availability of public transit options, and the accessibility of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. This assessment is particularly important for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer.

The “Breast Cancer Score” for Mechanicsburg, therefore, is not a simple number but a nuanced evaluation of the transportation ecosystem. While the borough benefits from its proximity to major highways and the availability of ride-sharing services, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transportation must be considered. The key to maximizing healthcare access in Mechanicsburg lies in proactive planning, utilizing a combination of transportation options, and seeking assistance when needed.

The healthcare journey for breast cancer patients is a complex one. It requires a multi-faceted approach, including the availability of quality medical care and the ease with which patients can access that care. By carefully evaluating the transportation infrastructure, residents of Mechanicsburg can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure that they receive the support they need throughout their treatment and recovery.

Ultimately, the success of breast cancer treatment hinges not only on medical expertise but also on the ability of patients to navigate the logistical challenges of their care. For residents of Mechanicsburg, understanding the transportation options available is a crucial step in ensuring that they can access the healthcare they need, when they need it. This knowledge is empowering, enabling individuals to take control of their health and navigate the complexities of breast cancer treatment with greater confidence and peace of mind.

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Health Scores Near 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

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Health Scores in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania