17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.85 percent of residents in 17249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Huntingdon with a distance of 18.40 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockhill Furnace, PA (ZIP Code 17249)

The journey to effective breast cancer care is rarely a straight line. It's a complex odyssey demanding not only medical expertise but also reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. For residents of Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17249), this journey presents unique challenges, demanding careful consideration of available resources and potential obstacles. This analysis, the “Breast Cancer Score,” assesses the accessibility of diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering **transportation** options, drive times, and other relevant factors for individuals facing this critical health concern. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the realities of navigating breast cancer care within this rural community.

The primary consideration for anyone residing in Rockhill Furnace is the limited availability of specialized medical facilities within the immediate vicinity. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools like mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, along with treatment modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are located in larger towns and cities. This geographical reality necessitates reliance on **transportation** to access essential healthcare services.

One of the most common modes of travel for residents of Rockhill Furnace is personal vehicle. The drive times to the nearest medical centers vary considerably depending on the destination and the specific route taken. For example, a trip to Chambersburg Hospital, a regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 35-45 minutes, covering roughly 30 miles. This journey primarily utilizes Pennsylvania Route 75, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Further, the route may involve sections of U.S. Route 30, a major east-west artery that can also be subject to delays.

Alternatively, accessing facilities in State College, Pennsylvania, a larger city with more extensive medical resources, would involve a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering approximately 80 miles. This longer journey would necessitate travel on Pennsylvania Route 75, followed by U.S. Route 322, a highway known for its winding roads and potential for inclement weather-related delays. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for patients undergoing treatment, requiring frequent visits for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up appointments.

Public **transportation** options in Rockhill Furnace are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public bus system, making it difficult for individuals without access to a personal vehicle to reach medical appointments. While some regional bus services may operate in the surrounding areas, their routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not adequately serve the needs of patients requiring timely access to healthcare. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is not guaranteed, potentially creating barriers for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and affordability can be unpredictable. The availability of drivers in rural areas like Rockhill Furnace may be limited, leading to longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals undergoing extended treatment regimens.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available, though their presence in this specific area is limited. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient needs. However, the availability of these services can vary, and they may require advance booking and incur additional costs. Researching medical **transportation** brands like Firstat Nursing Services, or Medical Transportation Management (MTM) can reveal local options.

For individuals considering **moving to Rockhill Furnace**, the availability of **healthcare access** should be a paramount consideration. The limited access to specialized medical care, coupled with the reliance on personal **transportation**, creates a significant challenge for those diagnosed with breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, reflects the need for careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system.

The Breast Cancer Score for Rockhill Furnace, PA (ZIP Code 17249), is influenced by several factors, including the distance to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers, the availability of public **transportation**, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical **transportation** options. The score also takes into account the potential for financial burdens associated with **transportation**, such as the cost of gas, ride-sharing fees, or medical **transportation** services.

The score is designed to inform residents about the challenges they may face in accessing breast cancer care, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It also serves as a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to address the **transportation** barriers that hinder **healthcare access** in rural communities like Rockhill Furnace.

Improving **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients in Rockhill Furnace requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for increased public **transportation** options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of medical **transportation** programs. Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and mobile mammography units can help bring healthcare services closer to the community, reducing the reliance on long-distance travel.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating breast cancer care in Rockhill Furnace. It underscores the need for individuals to understand their **transportation** options, identify potential financial burdens, and seek support from healthcare providers, family members, and community organizations. By addressing the challenges of **transportation** and promoting **healthcare access**, we can ensure that residents of Rockhill Furnace have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Rockhill Furnace, PA (ZIP Code 17249), reflects the complex realities of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic setting, the limited availability of specialized medical facilities and the reliance on **transportation** pose significant challenges for individuals facing breast cancer. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort, involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations, to ensure that all residents have equal access to the care they need. The journey to recovery is arduous, and the availability of reliable **transportation** should never be an impediment to receiving the life-saving care that is needed.