17060, Mill Creek, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17060, Mill Creek, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.55 percent of residents in 17060 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 22.74 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mill Creek (ZIP Code 17060)

The journey to healthcare, especially when facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. In Mill Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17060), understanding the transportation landscape is paramount for anyone considering a move or currently residing within its borders. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for this specific location, assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patients. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching necessary appointments, treatments, and support services, impacting the overall quality of life.

The foundation of this score hinges on the drive times to key medical facilities. The primary destination for specialized breast cancer care in this region is likely the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility offering comprehensive cancer services. From the heart of Mill Creek, a drive to Hershey Medical Center necessitates navigating several roadways. The most direct route involves utilizing Route 322 East, a major artery connecting Mill Creek to the larger Harrisburg area. The drive, typically spanning approximately 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, represents a relatively favorable starting point for healthcare access.

However, this estimation hinges on the absence of significant traffic congestion. Rush hour, especially during weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this commute. Alternative routes, such as utilizing secondary roads like Manada Hill Road and Route 443, exist. These offer potential diversions, yet they may involve winding roads and potentially slower travel times. The overall reliance on personal vehicles for this crucial healthcare access presents a challenge, particularly for individuals who may not drive due to age, disability, or other limitations.

Public transportation options in Mill Creek and the surrounding areas are limited, impacting the Breast Cancer Score. The primary public transit provider is Capital Area Transit (CAT), offering bus services within the Harrisburg metropolitan area. However, CAT’s service area does not extend directly into Mill Creek. While a potential option might involve a combination of local transportation and a transfer to a CAT route, the frequency and reliability of such a journey would be questionable.

The lack of direct public transit to Hershey Medical Center significantly affects healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The absence of frequent, reliable bus routes adds a layer of complexity and potential stress to an already challenging situation. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any potential connecting routes would need to be carefully evaluated. This is crucial for patients with mobility limitations, ensuring they can navigate the transportation system safely and comfortably.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. The availability and cost of these services in Mill Creek, however, are subject to fluctuations in demand and driver availability. During peak hours or in times of high demand, the cost of a ride to Hershey Medical Center could be substantial. This cost factor, combined with the potential for delays in securing a ride, impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, represent another option. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility aids. However, the availability and cost of these services need careful consideration. The reimbursement policies of insurance providers will also impact the affordability of these services.

The Breast Cancer Score must also consider the availability of local support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources is vital for patients. The proximity of these services, and the ease of access via various transportation methods, contribute significantly to the overall score. If these support systems are located within Hershey Medical Center, the existing transportation challenges become even more critical.

For individuals considering moving to Mill Creek, the transportation landscape must be a key factor in their decision. A thorough assessment of personal transportation needs, including the ability to drive and the availability of family or friends for assistance, is essential. The potential reliance on ride-sharing services or medical transportation necessitates a careful evaluation of costs and availability. Prospective residents should also investigate the proximity and accessibility of support services.

The Breast Cancer Score in Mill Creek is influenced by the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs and availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The drive time to Hershey Medical Center, while relatively short, is subject to traffic fluctuations. A proactive approach to transportation planning is critical for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking to relocate to this area.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of all available transportation options. The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. However, the proximity of Hershey Medical Center, along with the potential availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, offers some mitigation. The overall Breast Cancer Score in Mill Creek highlights the importance of individual planning and the potential need for support in navigating the transportation landscape to ensure access to essential healthcare services.