17233, Mc Connellsburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17233, Mc Connellsburg, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.63 percent of residents in 17233 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 0.28 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17233**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands meticulous planning and unwavering support. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities for residents of ZIP Code 17233 (McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This is especially relevant for those *moving to McConnellsburg*, seeking to understand the practicalities of medical care.

The score considers various factors, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each element is weighed to provide a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities in accessing breast cancer care. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to navigate their healthcare journey effectively.

**The Geographic Landscape and its Impact**

ZIP Code 17233, nestled in rural Fulton County, presents unique transportation challenges. The county's vast, sparsely populated landscape necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. This geographical reality significantly influences healthcare access, particularly for those without reliable transportation or facing mobility limitations. The winding roads and limited public transit options demand careful consideration when planning medical appointments and treatment regimens.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary arteries serving McConnellsburg are US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Pennsylvania Route 75, running north-south. These highways are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring towns and cities. Drive times to key destinations are paramount in this assessment.

The closest hospital with comprehensive cancer services is UPMC Carlisle, approximately 60 miles east. Driving to Carlisle via US Route 30 typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive can be particularly challenging during inclement weather, potentially extending travel times and increasing stress for patients.

Another option is Chambersburg Hospital, about 30 miles east, accessible via US Route 30. The drive time averages around 45 minutes, offering a slightly more convenient option for some. However, Chambersburg Hospital may not offer the same specialized services as UPMC Carlisle, potentially necessitating longer journeys for specific treatments.

Further afield, residents might consider facilities in Harrisburg, such as the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, roughly 80 miles away. Reaching Harrisburg involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via US Route 30 and Interstate 81. This journey is considerably longer and requires careful planning, especially for frequent appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Fulton County are severely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

The county does have a small, demand-response system. This service, often referred to as a "dial-a-ride," requires advance booking and may have limited operating hours and availability. It's crucial to investigate the specifics of this service, including its coverage area, accessibility features for individuals with disabilities (ADA compliance), and associated costs. The number of the transit service is crucial for residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence may be less consistent in rural areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Patients should proactively check for ride-sharing options when scheduling appointments and factor in potential wait times.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transport, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport brands operate in the region.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands may serve the area. Researching these brands is essential. Contacting these services directly to inquire about their coverage area, pricing, and availability is crucial. Some services may offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The combination of long drive times, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services creates a complex landscape for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17233. This situation can significantly impact patients’ ability to attend appointments, access timely diagnoses, and adhere to treatment plans.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

This "Breast Cancer Score" considers these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility. The score will be influenced by the availability of transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the presence of support services.

The final score will reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing breast cancer care in the area. This score is not just a number; it is a tool to inform individuals about the challenges and opportunities they may face.

**Recommendations for Individuals Moving to McConnellsburg**

For individuals *moving to McConnellsburg* and concerned about healthcare access, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate personal transportation capabilities and identify potential limitations.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Investigate the availability, accessibility, and limitations of the local public transit system.
* **Research Ride-Sharing Availability:** Determine the reliability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Identify Medical Transport Providers:** Research and contact medical transport services to understand their offerings and costs.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Factor in travel times, potential delays, and the need for support from family or friends.
* **Consider Proximity to Care:** When possible, choose healthcare providers and facilities that are within a reasonable distance.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support efforts to improve public transportation and healthcare access in the community.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17233 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area presents challenges, proactive planning, resourcefulness, and community support can mitigate these obstacles. By understanding the transportation landscape and exploring available options, individuals can navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ensure timely access to the care they need. This information is essential for anyone considering *moving to McConnellsburg* and seeking quality healthcare.