17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.12 percent of residents in 17058 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mifflin, PA (ZIP Code 17058)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding not only medical expertise but also swift and reliable access to care. For residents of Mifflin, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17058), the journey to treatment, from initial screening to ongoing therapy, is a complex equation, heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This write-up aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering the realities of getting to and from appointments within and around Mifflin.

Mifflin, a charming community nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. The landscape is rural, defined by rolling hills and the Susquehanna River, which impacts transportation infrastructure. The availability of diverse **transportation** options becomes crucial for timely and consistent medical care. Factors such as drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for residents.

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Mifflin are Pennsylvania Route 322 and U.S. Route 22/322. These roadways are vital lifelines connecting Mifflin to larger medical centers in Harrisburg and State College. Driving times, a critical component of the score, vary depending on traffic, time of day, and weather conditions. A drive to Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour via Route 322 and the Carlisle Pike. Similarly, reaching UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, another major hospital, involves a similar drive time, also via Route 322.

For those without personal vehicles, the options become significantly more limited. Public transit, a crucial element in assessing **healthcare access**, is provided by Capital Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's presence in Mifflin is minimal. CAT operates primarily in the Harrisburg area, offering limited service to outlying areas. The routes serving Mifflin are infrequent, and the schedules may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated, may not always guarantee seamless access, especially in rural areas with limited infrastructure. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has offered a new layer of **transportation** options, but their availability in Mifflin is not guaranteed. While these services may be present, wait times and surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can pose significant challenges. The reliability of ride-sharing, therefore, is a factor that must be carefully considered when evaluating the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services can be invaluable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies, which impacts affordability and accessibility.

Beyond the immediate challenges of getting to appointments, the Breast Cancer Score also considers the broader context of healthcare resources. Mifflin residents have access to local primary care physicians who can provide initial screenings and referrals. However, specialized care, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, is primarily located in Harrisburg or State College. This necessitates travel, further emphasizing the importance of reliable **transportation**.

The Breast Cancer Score is also impacted by the availability of support services. Cancer support groups, counseling, and patient navigators can play a vital role in helping patients navigate the complexities of treatment. Access to these resources, whether located locally or requiring travel, is a crucial element in the overall assessment.

**Moving to Mifflin** and considering its healthcare landscape requires a thorough understanding of these factors. The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the individual's circumstances, including their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their physical capabilities.

The ideal scenario would involve a robust network of public transit, readily available ride-sharing services, and a comprehensive medical transport system. However, the reality in Mifflin is more nuanced. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options create a barrier for some residents.

The Breast Cancer Score for Mifflin, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers access to primary care and is within reasonable driving distance of major medical centers, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport services create areas of concern. The score would be higher for those with access to a personal vehicle and lower for those who rely on alternative **transportation** options.

For individuals considering **moving to Mifflin** or already residing there, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. This includes researching available **transportation** options, establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, and exploring the availability of support services. Understanding the limitations and proactively planning for **transportation** needs can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score and ensure timely access to critical care.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score for Mifflin is a call to action. It highlights the need for continued investment in **transportation** infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare services to ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, have equal access to the care they need. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is directly linked to the quality of life and the ability to fight breast cancer effectively.