17251, Roxbury, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17251, Roxbury, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.00 percent of residents in 17251 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 12.35 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Roxbury (ZIP Code 17251)

The diagnosis of breast cancer brings with it a cascade of emotions, practical considerations, and a pressing need for accessible healthcare. For residents of Roxbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17251), understanding the landscape of transportation options to and from vital medical appointments is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare access, focusing on transportation challenges and opportunities, for those living with or considering moving to this community.

The core of this analysis revolves around the practical realities of getting to and from healthcare facilities. The ability to attend appointments, receive treatments, and participate in support groups is inextricably linked to reliable transportation. This score will evaluate the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a clear picture of the challenges and advantages.

**Driving Times: The Road to Recovery**

Roxbury, nestled in Franklin County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the region are Interstate 81 (I-81), Route 30, and Route 11.

Heading north on I-81 provides access to Chambersburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The drive, typically around 15-20 minutes, offers relatively straightforward access, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. Route 30, running east-west, provides another route to Chambersburg and other healthcare facilities. This route is generally less congested than I-81 but can be subject to traffic lights and slower speeds.

Route 11, running parallel to I-81, offers a more local route. While it might be a shorter distance to some destinations, it is often slower due to numerous stoplights and local traffic. Careful planning is crucial, considering appointment times and potential delays.

For those seeking specialized care, such as oncology centers or radiation therapy facilities, travel times can vary. The Penn State Health Cancer Institute, located in Hershey, is a more significant journey, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-81 and I-83. This extended travel time underscores the importance of pre-planning, coordinating transportation, and considering the potential for fatigue.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Roxbury are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The primary provider, Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA), offers bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

FCTA routes are often focused on connecting major towns and employment centers, with limited service to more rural areas where many Roxbury residents reside. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can pose significant obstacles.

The lack of direct routes to major healthcare facilities necessitates multiple transfers, adding to the complexity and duration of travel. This can be particularly challenging for individuals experiencing fatigue, nausea, or other side effects of treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option, but their availability and cost can vary. Ride-sharing may be readily available in Chambersburg, but services in more rural areas of Roxbury might be limited, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of rides can quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on patients and their families.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more targeted solution. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local ambulance providers, are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those undergoing cancer treatment. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and a level of comfort and support that may not be available through other options.

However, medical transport services can be expensive, and pre-authorization from insurance companies is often required. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**

Transportation is only one facet of healthcare access. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer services in the region is also a critical factor. Chambersburg Hospital offers a range of services, including mammograms, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and chemotherapy. However, access to specialized services, such as radiation therapy, may require travel to other facilities.

The availability of support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience. These resources provide emotional support, practical guidance, and assistance with navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

**Moving to Roxbury: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Roxbury, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful consideration of vehicle maintenance, insurance costs, and the potential for traffic delays.

For those without access to a personal vehicle, the limited public transit options and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport pose significant challenges. Proximity to healthcare facilities and access to support services should be prioritized when choosing a location.

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

This "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for understanding healthcare access in Roxbury. It highlights the importance of transportation, the limitations of public transit, and the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, subject to change as transportation options evolve and healthcare services expand. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved transportation and access to care within the community.

Ultimately, navigating the journey of breast cancer requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing not only medical treatment but also the practical considerations of transportation, support services, and a supportive community. This score aims to illuminate the path forward, ensuring that residents of Roxbury can access the care they need with greater ease and peace of mind.