17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates a reliable and accessible transportation network, a crucial element often overlooked in the equation of patient well-being. This write-up, tailored for residents and prospective residents of Reedsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17084), assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" – a metric reflecting the ease with which individuals can access essential breast cancer care within the region. This score considers the availability and efficiency of various transportation options, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those considering moving to Reedsville or already calling it home.

Reedsville, nestled in Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural setting, while offering tranquility, can pose challenges for those seeking timely and convenient transportation to medical appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges these complexities, examining drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. In Reedsville, the ability to drive to healthcare facilities is paramount. The primary arteries for reaching specialized breast cancer care are Pennsylvania Route 322 and US Route 322. These highways provide the most direct routes to larger medical centers.

The closest comprehensive cancer care is likely found in Lewistown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 322. This drive offers relatively straightforward access to the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, potentially providing initial screenings, diagnostics, and some treatment options. Further treatment, including specialized surgeries or radiation therapy, might necessitate travel to larger hospitals in State College or Harrisburg.

Venturing to State College, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via Route 322 East and US-322 East, opens up access to the Mount Nittany Medical Center. This facility offers a broader range of cancer care services, including advanced treatments and specialized oncology teams. The drive, while manageable, necessitates careful planning and consideration of traffic, especially during peak hours.

For those seeking the most comprehensive care, including clinical trials or specialized expertise, the drive to Harrisburg, roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes via Route 322 East and US-322 East, is a viable option. This route provides access to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major regional medical center with extensive cancer treatment facilities.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation in Reedsville is limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) offers bus services, but their routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the local community and may not offer direct or frequent access to the larger medical centers.

While the MCTA provides some routes that may connect to Lewistown, the frequency and reliability of these services should be thoroughly investigated. The MCTA website and local offices are the best resources for obtaining current route maps, schedules, and information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features.

The MCTA's ADA-compliant services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. These services ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the public transportation network. However, the limited reach of the MCTA means that reliance on public transit for breast cancer care is often impractical.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Reedsville area, offering a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Patients should factor in the cost of rides when budgeting for their healthcare needs. Booking rides in advance is recommended to ensure availability and minimize wait times.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, provide another option. These services, often offered by specialized companies, provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including Liberty Medical Transport and MedStar Transportation. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. Patients should research these options and inquire about insurance coverage.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Reedsville**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Reedsville reflects a mixed picture. While drive times to Lewistown are relatively short, access to more comprehensive cancer care in State College or Harrisburg requires longer journeys. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those without personal vehicles.

When considering moving to Reedsville, individuals with a history of breast cancer or at high risk should carefully evaluate the transportation options available. The proximity to Lewistown's healthcare facilities is a positive factor, but the need for potentially longer drives to specialized centers should be considered.

Individuals should also assess their ability to drive or rely on family and friends for transportation. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options should be researched, and the associated costs should be factored into the overall cost of healthcare.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a tool for informed decision-making. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents and prospective residents of Reedsville can better navigate the healthcare system and ensure access to the vital care needed to combat breast cancer. Careful planning, proactive research, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential for maximizing healthcare access and ensuring the best possible outcomes.