17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.30 percent of residents in 17239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 16.75 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Neelyton (ZIP Code 17239)**

The journey to quality breast cancer care is a complex one, interwoven with the threads of early detection, specialized treatment, and compassionate support. For residents of Neelyton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17239), the path to these crucial resources is further shaped by the realities of transportation and healthcare access. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a localized assessment considering the practical challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking breast cancer services within and beyond the community. It aims to illuminate the landscape, offering insights into the transportation infrastructure, available healthcare facilities, and potential barriers that impact the overall experience.

Neelyton, nestled in the heart of south-central Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of circumstances. The town's rural character influences access to healthcare, particularly for specialized services like those related to breast cancer. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors such as drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing options, and the accessibility of medical transport services. These elements, when combined, paint a picture of the ease or difficulty with which residents can access the care they need.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Transportation**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most Neelyton residents. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel along specific roadways. A critical consideration is the drive time, which can significantly impact the feasibility of regular appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

To reach Chambersburg Hospital, a common destination for primary care and initial breast cancer screenings, residents typically embark on a journey along **Route 75** South, merging onto **Interstate 81** South. The drive, generally covering approximately 20 miles, can take anywhere from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise during peak commuting hours or due to accidents on **I-81**.

For more specialized care, such as consultations with oncologists, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, residents may need to travel to facilities in Harrisburg or Hershey. The journey to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a leading cancer treatment center, involves a drive of approximately 70 miles. This route requires navigating **Route 75** South to **I-81** North, then transferring to **Interstate 83** North. The drive time typically ranges from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.

Another option is UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital. This requires a drive along **Route 75** South to **I-81** North. The drive is about 60 miles and can take about an hour.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation. Residents without access to a car face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Neelyton and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant barrier for individuals who do not drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The availability of public transit is a crucial element in the "Breast Cancer Score."

The primary public transportation provider in the region is the Capital Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's services are primarily focused on the Harrisburg metropolitan area and do not directly serve Neelyton. This means residents must rely on other means to reach CAT routes.

The lack of readily available public transit emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport options.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. While availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand, these services provide a convenient option for reaching medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another alternative. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local providers may offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. The availability and cost of medical transport services should be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Matter**

Beyond transportation, the "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the availability of healthcare facilities and the services they offer. Access to early detection screenings, such as mammograms, is crucial for improving breast cancer outcomes.

Chambersburg Hospital provides a range of diagnostic services, including mammography. This local availability reduces the need for long-distance travel for initial screenings. However, access to specialized cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may require travel to facilities in Harrisburg or Hershey.

The proximity of these facilities to Neelyton is a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The ability to access comprehensive cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services, is essential for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

**Moving to Neelyton: A Consideration**

For individuals considering a move to Neelyton, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape. Understanding the transportation challenges and the availability of healthcare services is essential for making an informed decision.

Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers, the drive times to medical facilities, and the potential reliance on alternative transportation options. They should also explore the availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, which can be invaluable for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Neelyton (ZIP code 17239) highlights the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of residents. While the community benefits from access to local screening services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transportation present significant challenges.

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and expanding medical transport services can improve healthcare access for all residents. Additionally, promoting awareness of available resources, providing financial assistance for transportation costs, and advocating for increased access to specialized cancer care are crucial steps toward ensuring that all Neelyton residents have the opportunity to receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support the health and well-being of the community.