17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.35 percent of residents in 17252 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 7.89 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Thomas, PA (ZIP Code 17252)

The diagnosis of breast cancer can be a daunting experience, and the challenges extend beyond the medical. Accessing timely and quality healthcare, especially in a rural setting like Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17252), presents its own set of hurdles. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the transportation landscape, crucial for navigating the journey from diagnosis to treatment and recovery, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to this area.

The core of this assessment revolves around the accessibility of healthcare facilities specializing in breast cancer treatment. We will consider drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, understanding that each plays a significant role in determining a patient's ability to receive the care they need. The score aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local transportation infrastructure, ultimately influencing the overall healthcare access for individuals facing this life-altering disease.

Saint Thomas, nestled in Franklin County, is a predominantly rural area, meaning personal **transportation** is often the primary mode of travel. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Chambersburg and Waynesboro, both requiring a car for easy access. From the center of Saint Thomas, a drive to the WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, which offers comprehensive cancer services, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. This journey primarily utilizes **US Route 30** East, a major arterial road that connects Saint Thomas to Chambersburg. Traffic conditions can vary, particularly during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Alternatively, residents might consider the drive to the Waynesboro Hospital, also offering cancer care. This route, approximately 20 minutes, primarily involves **US Route 30** West. While shorter in distance, the impact of traffic on US Route 30 needs to be considered. The ease of parking and the stress of navigating these routes, especially for patients undergoing treatment, are important factors to acknowledge.

Public **transportation** options in Saint Thomas are limited. The primary provider is the Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA). However, FCTA's service in this area is not extensive. There are no direct routes that specifically serve the cancer centers in Chambersburg or Waynesboro. This severely limits the **healthcare access** for those who do not have a personal vehicle or cannot drive.

The FCTA does offer a demand-response service, which requires advance booking and can be used to travel to medical appointments. However, this service may not be ideal for patients undergoing frequent treatments, as scheduling and availability can be unpredictable. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access the service. The FCTA strives to offer ADA-compliant services, but the practical application of these services needs to be considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Franklin County, including Saint Thomas. However, their availability and reliability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, becoming a significant financial burden for patients undergoing long-term treatment. The availability of these services, especially for those with compromised immune systems or mobility limitations, needs to be carefully considered.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are another option. Companies like MedRide and other medical transport providers offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and wheelchair accessibility. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability in Saint Thomas should be confirmed.

For individuals considering **moving to Saint Thomas**, the availability of reliable **transportation** to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. While the drive times to Chambersburg and Waynesboro are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create potential barriers to **healthcare access**. Prospective residents should thoroughly investigate their **transportation** options and consider the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and convenient medical care, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are at risk for breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Score for Saint Thomas, PA, reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive aspect. However, the limited public **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services present challenges. The score is negatively impacted by the lack of direct public transit routes to cancer centers and the potential for increased costs associated with alternative **transportation** methods.

The score is further influenced by the need for patients to navigate **US Route 30**, a road that can experience heavy traffic, potentially adding to the stress of appointments. The availability and accessibility of ADA-compliant services within the existing public **transportation** and medical **transportation** networks are also critical considerations.

The overall score suggests that while healthcare is accessible, the journey to receive it requires careful planning and consideration of available **transportation** resources. Individuals considering **moving to Saint Thomas** should prioritize researching and securing reliable **transportation** options to ensure seamless **healthcare access**. The community could benefit from exploring initiatives to improve public **transportation** options, particularly those that directly serve cancer centers. This would significantly enhance the Breast Cancer Score and improve the quality of life for residents facing this challenging diagnosis.