17068, New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17068, New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.13 percent of residents in 17068 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 13.25 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Bloomfield, PA (ZIP Code 17068)

The specter of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and reliable access to specialized healthcare. For residents of New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17068), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care involves navigating a complex web of transportation options. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, examines the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services from this rural community, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all crucial elements of healthcare access.

New Bloomfield, nestled in Perry County, offers a serene backdrop, but its rural nature poses significant challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in Harrisburg, a journey that necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics.

**The Road to Recovery: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to Harrisburg involves utilizing **Route 322 East**, a major thoroughfare connecting New Bloomfield to the state capital. The drive, typically spanning around 30 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this travel time.

Alternatively, residents can opt for a slightly longer route via **Route 850 East** to **Route 22/322 East**. This route, while potentially less congested, adds a few extra miles and minutes to the journey. Navigating these highways requires a reliable vehicle and a driver comfortable with varying road conditions. Winter weather, common in Pennsylvania, can further complicate travel, potentially delaying appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in New Bloomfield and Perry County are limited. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system, serving the Harrisburg area, does not directly extend its routes to New Bloomfield. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those without personal vehicles, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those facing financial constraints.

While CAT does offer limited services within Perry County, these routes are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The absence of readily available public transit underscores the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare access. This is a crucial consideration for anyone moving to New Bloomfield.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Harrisburg area and may provide a viable, though potentially costly, option for transportation. However, their availability in New Bloomfield itself can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Harrisburg can be substantial, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to ensure accessibility for all patients. These services require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria, but they can be invaluable for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation options.

**Accessibility Considerations: ADA Compliance and Beyond**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation. While ride-sharing services strive to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles can be limited. Medical transportation services typically offer a higher degree of ADA compliance, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff.

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities in Harrisburg is also a crucial factor. Patients should confirm the availability of accessible parking, elevators, and other amenities before their appointments. This is a critical aspect of healthcare access, ensuring that all individuals can receive the care they need, regardless of their mobility.

**Breast Cancer Centers: Destination Healthcare**

The primary destination for breast cancer care from New Bloomfield is Harrisburg, home to several reputable healthcare facilities. **Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center** and **UPMC Harrisburg Hospital** both offer comprehensive breast cancer programs, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services. These facilities are generally accessible via the transportation options described above.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Summary**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for New Bloomfield, PA (ZIP Code 17068), reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Harrisburg provides access to quality healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create significant transportation barriers.

Drive times, though manageable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions. Ride-sharing services offer a potential solution but may be costly and unreliable. Medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net for those with mobility limitations.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score for New Bloomfield underscores the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness when navigating the healthcare system. Residents must proactively assess their transportation options, consider the financial implications, and seek support from family, friends, and community resources. The availability of medical transportation and the potential for ride-sharing are essential elements of healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Empowering Patients**

For individuals considering moving to New Bloomfield, the availability of healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer care, should be a key consideration. Understanding the transportation challenges and planning accordingly is crucial for ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options in rural communities. This includes advocating for expanded public transit, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation services. By addressing these challenges, we can empower residents of New Bloomfield and other rural areas to navigate the healthcare system with greater ease and confidence.