17271, Willow Hill, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17271, Willow Hill, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.21 percent of residents in 17271 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 16.07 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Willow Hill (ZIP Code 17271)

Considering a move to Willow Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17271)? Beyond the charming rural landscape and potential for a slower pace of life, understanding healthcare access is crucial, particularly for women. This analysis focuses on the availability of breast cancer screening and treatment options, factoring in the practicalities of transportation, a critical component of healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, and other transportation options, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment to help you evaluate the area's suitability.

The foundation of any breast cancer score is the proximity to comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Willow Hill, the nearest major healthcare hubs are in Chambersburg, approximately 15 miles away, and Harrisburg, roughly 70 miles distant. Chambersburg offers the WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, a facility with a dedicated breast care center. Harrisburg provides access to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, both equipped with advanced oncology services.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery connecting Willow Hill to Chambersburg is **U.S. Route 30**. A drive to WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. While traffic congestion is generally light in this rural area, rush hour can slightly extend the commute, particularly around Chambersburg. The journey to Harrisburg necessitates a longer drive, primarily via **Interstate 81 (I-81)**. Expect a drive time of 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes to reach Harrisburg hospitals, again influenced by traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours. The initial stretch of **U.S. Route 30** towards **I-81** can also experience some congestion.

For those seeking specialized care or second opinions, the drive to Hershey Medical Center, also in the Harrisburg area, adds another 15-20 minutes to the journey. These drive times are crucial considerations when factoring in the need for regular screenings, follow-up appointments, and potential treatment regimens. The convenience of timely access to care is paramount in the fight against breast cancer.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Willow Hill and the surrounding Franklin County are limited. The primary provider is the rabbittransit system, which offers bus services. However, the routes serving Willow Hill are infrequent and primarily designed for local travel, not direct access to hospitals in Chambersburg or Harrisburg.

For example, a potential route might involve taking the **rabbittransit Route 7** from a nearby stop to Chambersburg. However, the frequency of this route is limited, and transfers might be required, significantly increasing travel time. The **rabbittransit** system does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the sparse route network and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges for those needing reliable access to medical appointments, especially for regular screenings or treatments.

The absence of direct, frequent public transit to major healthcare centers is a significant factor impacting the Breast Cancer Score. This limitation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability in Willow Hill can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not always feasible.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or MedRide, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability needs to be confirmed in advance.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the Breast Cancer Score for Willow Hill (ZIP Code 17271) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Chambersburg, with a relatively short drive time to WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, provides a degree of convenience. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present significant challenges.

The long drive to Harrisburg for specialized care or treatment further complicates the picture. The Breast Cancer Score would be moderately impacted by these transportation limitations.

**Moving to Willow Hill and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Willow Hill, a careful assessment of healthcare access is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation to medical appointments is a key consideration. Individuals without access to a car, or those who are unable to drive, will face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.

Before making a move, it is crucial to:

* **Verify Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that your insurance plan covers the healthcare providers and facilities in Chambersburg and Harrisburg.
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or arrange for reliable transportation.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research and contact medical transportation providers to understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If regular specialized care is required, consider the drive times and the potential impact on your daily life.

**Conclusion:**

While Willow Hill offers a tranquil setting, the Breast Cancer Score is influenced by the limitations in transportation options. Prospective residents, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or those seeking proactive screening, should carefully weigh the convenience of healthcare access against the appeal of the rural lifestyle. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to vital healthcare services. The drive times, public transit limitations, and the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options must be carefully considered before making a move.