17304, Aspers, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17304, Aspers, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.25 percent of residents in 17304 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 10.85 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Aspers, PA (ZIP Code 17304)**

Aspers, Pennsylvania, a charming community nestled in Adams County, presents a unique landscape for individuals seeking optimal healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer screening and treatment. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 17304, evaluates the transportation infrastructure available to navigate the complexities of healthcare access, providing a “Breast Cancer Score” based on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This score will help prospective residents understand the practicalities of accessing vital medical services, especially for those considering moving to Aspers.

The ability to swiftly and reliably reach healthcare facilities is paramount for breast cancer patients. Early detection and consistent treatment are crucial for positive outcomes. The Breast Cancer Score considers the time and ease of reaching the nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers. The primary metric is the time required to reach these facilities via various modes of transportation. The score considers the potential for delays, accessibility challenges, and the overall convenience of the journey.

**Driving Distances and Times**

The primary mode of transportation in Aspers is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The surrounding area is characterized by a network of well-maintained roads, but the distances to major medical centers necessitate careful consideration. For residents of 17304, the closest hospital with a dedicated cancer center is Gettysburg Hospital, located approximately 10 miles south.

Driving to Gettysburg Hospital from Aspers typically takes around 15-20 minutes, primarily utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 394** and **US Route 30**. The journey is relatively straightforward, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can increase travel times. Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer treatment facility, is roughly 60 miles east. This drive, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, involves navigating **US Route 15** and **Interstate 81**.

The commute to Hershey Medical Center is considerably longer, presenting a significant time commitment for regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation treatments. This extended travel time can negatively impact the patient's quality of life and potentially increase the stress associated with treatment.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Adams County are limited. The rabbittransit, the regional transit authority, provides some services, but coverage in Aspers and the surrounding rural areas is sparse. There are no direct bus routes serving Aspers. The nearest rabbittransit stops are in Gettysburg, requiring residents to drive to a central location to access public transit.

The Gettysburg Transit Center, located at 400 North Washington Street, serves as a hub for several bus routes. However, these routes are primarily focused on local travel within Gettysburg and do not offer direct connections to major medical facilities outside of the town. Furthermore, the frequency of these routes is limited, especially on weekends and evenings.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transportation. rabbittransit strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses. However, the limited route availability and the need to transfer buses can create challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The lack of direct public transit options to major cancer centers significantly diminishes the Breast Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Aspers area, but their reliability and cost can be variable. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including Care Ride and First Transit, but their availability and service areas may vary.

The cost of medical transportation can be significant, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans. Patients should investigate their insurance coverage and explore options for financial assistance if needed. While medical transportation provides a valuable service, its cost and potential limitations contribute to a lower Breast Cancer Score.

**Breast Cancer Score and Implications for Aspers Residents**

Considering the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for Aspers, PA (17304) is moderate. The availability of a personal vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare. While Gettysburg Hospital is relatively close, the longer commute to specialized cancer centers, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services present challenges.

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer or those at high risk, the transportation limitations can significantly impact the ease and convenience of accessing vital medical care. Regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and radiation treatments require consistent and reliable transportation. The time spent commuting and the potential for delays can add to the stress and burden of the disease.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Aspers**

Prospective residents considering moving to Aspers should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing the disease should prioritize proximity to comprehensive cancer centers.

* **Assess Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that your health insurance plan covers transportation costs or provides access to medical transportation services.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Identify local support groups and organizations that offer assistance with transportation or other support services for cancer patients.
* **Plan for Commute Times:** Factor in commute times to medical facilities when scheduling appointments and treatments.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the proximity of your residence to major hospitals and cancer centers.
* **Investigate Transportation Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and public transit options.

For those considering moving to Aspers, careful planning and proactive investigation of healthcare access are crucial. While Aspers offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, the transportation challenges associated with accessing specialized medical care must be acknowledged and addressed. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of prioritizing healthcare access when making relocation decisions.