17302, Airville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.09 percent of residents in 17302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lancaster General Hospital with a distance of 17.53 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Airville (ZIP Code 17302)

Airville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of York County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluates the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents of ZIP code 17302, providing a comprehensive understanding of the journey to crucial medical appointments. This is especially relevant for individuals considering moving to Airville, seeking a clearer picture of their healthcare accessibility.

The score is not a numerical grade but a narrative assessment, weaving together the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities with the available transportation resources. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial components of a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving Times and Routes**

For many Airville residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The drive to the nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers can vary significantly depending on location within the ZIP code and the time of day.

The York Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, primarily via Pennsylvania Route 74 (PA-74). This highway, though generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak commuting hours, particularly near the city limits of York. A slightly longer route, utilizing Interstate 83 (I-83) and then PA-74, might offer some relief from traffic, though it adds mileage.

Another significant healthcare destination is WellSpan York Hospital, which is also about a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on the specific location in Airville. This route primarily involves PA-74, with potential for traffic delays as mentioned earlier. The route can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter months.

For those seeking specialized care, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, represents a longer journey. This drive typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily utilizing I-83 North and then US-322. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, considering potential delays and the patient's physical condition.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Airville are limited, which significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but the routes within and around Airville are infrequent and may not directly serve major medical facilities.

The YCTA Route 19 provides some connection to the city of York, but the frequency of service is limited, and the travel time to York Hospital or WellSpan York Hospital would be considerably longer than driving. Moreover, the accessibility of these routes for individuals with mobility limitations needs careful consideration. While the YCTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible stops and the overall convenience of public transit are important factors.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Airville can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase the cost.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by MedTrans or American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transport for patients requiring assistance. These services are often covered by insurance, but prior arrangements are necessary, and the availability may be limited. The cost of these services can also be a barrier for some patients.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Airville reveals a mixed picture of healthcare access. While driving provides the most direct route to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges for those without access to them. The limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability issues with ride-sharing and medical transport services further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Airville, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. Factors such as the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of support networks, and the ability to utilize alternative transportation options should be carefully evaluated.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The journey to healthcare in Airville, particularly for those facing breast cancer, requires careful navigation of the available transportation resources. While the area offers access to quality medical care, the limitations in public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-sharing services can create barriers to access.

This "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the local transportation landscape. For those considering moving to Airville, a detailed assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential to ensure timely access to the vital healthcare services necessary for diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The ability to secure reliable transportation is a crucial element in the fight against breast cancer, and understanding the options available in Airville is the first step towards ensuring that access.