17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.77 percent of residents in 17097 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 22.70 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wiconisco (ZIP Code 17097)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates reliable and accessible transportation, a critical element in the overall experience. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17097 (Wiconisco, Pennsylvania), delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer care. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this community. This is especially important for those *moving to Wiconisco*, weighing the practicalities of daily life alongside the peace of mind of knowing quality healthcare is within reach.

The primary concern is, of course, the availability of comprehensive breast cancer services. This includes screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging (ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and supportive care services like physical therapy and mental health counseling. The ability to navigate the transportation network to reach these services is a key factor in patient outcomes. A robust transportation system minimizes delays, reduces stress, and allows patients to focus on their health and recovery.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Wiconisco. The town is nestled in a rural area, and the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial. From Wiconisco, the most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating several key roadways. The primary arteries are Route 147, a north-south thoroughfare, and Route 22/322, a major east-west highway. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding significant time to travel.

For those seeking care at UPMC Harrisburg, the drive typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route necessitates heading east on Route 22/322, then merging onto Interstate 83 South. The final leg involves navigating city streets to reach the hospital complex. Similarly, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located further east, requires a drive of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The route follows Route 22/322 east, connecting to Interstate 81 South, then onto the Hershey exit.

The drive times are a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Long commutes can be exhausting for patients undergoing treatment, particularly those experiencing side effects from chemotherapy or radiation. Frequent appointments for imaging, treatment, and follow-up care can place a significant burden on patients and their caregivers. The ability to minimize travel time is crucial for improving patient quality of life and ensuring adherence to treatment plans.

Public transportation options in Wiconisco are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service in the Harrisburg area, but its routes do not directly serve Wiconisco. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to a CAT bus stop, which is not a convenient or reliable option for regular medical appointments. The lack of accessible public *transportation* is a major detractor in the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration for public transit. While CAT strives to provide accessible services, the lack of direct routes to Wiconisco limits its usefulness for residents. The absence of readily available, accessible public *transportation* significantly impacts the overall healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, who may already face challenges in navigating the healthcare system.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Wiconisco and the surrounding areas is variable. While these services may be accessible, the cost can be a significant barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a concern, as availability can fluctuate, potentially leading to missed appointments or delays in accessing care. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the financial burden and reliability of these services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable resource. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those who are unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in Wiconisco and the associated costs must be considered in the overall assessment. The Breast Cancer Score would be higher if these services were readily available and affordable.

The Breast Cancer Score also needs to factor in the availability of support services within the community. This includes access to support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services can help patients cope with the emotional and financial challenges of breast cancer treatment. The proximity of these resources, along with the ease of *transportation* to them, is a key component of the overall assessment.

The Breast Cancer Score for Wiconisco (ZIP Code 17097) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers access to quality healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public *transportation* and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without access to a car. The Breast Cancer Score would be improved by increased public *transportation* options, the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and readily accessible medical transportation.

For those *moving to Wiconisco* and considering their healthcare needs, it is crucial to carefully assess their *transportation* options. While the area offers access to excellent medical facilities, the challenges associated with *transportation* must be considered. Individuals should explore all available resources, including family, friends, and community organizations, to ensure they have a reliable means of accessing the care they need. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is about more than just the availability of medical services; it is also about the ability to get there.