17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.53 percent of residents in 17307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 8.77 miles from the area.

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, is a deeply personal one. In the serene, agricultural heart of ZIP Code 17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania, the availability and accessibility of these vital services form a crucial aspect of the community's well-being. Assessing this "Breast Cancer Score" requires a multifaceted look at transportation options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the ease with which residents can navigate the system. The score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all impacting healthcare access for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.

The primary arteries of Biglerville, Route 394, and Route 30, are critical for transportation. Heading east on Route 394, a drive to the Gettysburg Hospital, a potential site for screening and initial treatment, typically takes around 15-20 minutes. This is a relatively manageable commute, particularly for those with personal vehicles. However, the journey west on Route 30, towards Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and the Chambersburg Hospital, extends the drive time to approximately 40-50 minutes. This longer commute introduces complexities, especially for individuals undergoing frequent treatments or facing mobility challenges.

Further afield, major hospitals in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, such as UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, offer a wider range of specialized services. The drive to Harrisburg involves utilizing Route 30 and then connecting to Interstate 81 North. This trip can consume upwards of an hour and a half, making it a significant undertaking, especially for those experiencing fatigue or discomfort. This lengthy transportation time can be a barrier to timely healthcare access.

Public transit options in Biglerville are limited. The rabbittransit system, serving Adams County, provides some bus routes, but their frequency and coverage in 17307 are restricted. There are no direct routes to major hospitals. The nearest bus stops are primarily located along Route 30, requiring residents to walk to the stops and then potentially transfer to multiple buses to reach their destination. The ADA accessibility of these buses is a critical consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the system. The availability of public transit is a significant factor influencing healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own a car or cannot drive.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Biglerville area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled early in the morning or late at night, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment who may already be facing substantial medical expenses.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for individuals with mobility issues or specific medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, further impacting healthcare access.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Biglerville, Pennsylvania, must also consider the services provided by the healthcare facilities themselves. The Gettysburg Hospital offers basic screening and initial treatment options, but more specialized services, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgeries, may require a referral to a larger hospital in Harrisburg or Chambersburg. The availability of these specialized services, along with the wait times for appointments and the patient-to-doctor ratio, also influence the overall score.

The community's awareness of breast cancer and its willingness to support those affected also plays a role. Support groups, educational programs, and outreach initiatives can help improve healthcare access by providing information, emotional support, and financial assistance. The presence of these resources within the community can significantly impact the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

For individuals considering moving to Biglerville, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access should be carefully considered. While the drive to Gettysburg Hospital is relatively short, the longer commutes to Harrisburg or Chambersburg can be a significant factor, especially for those with frequent appointments or mobility issues. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services should also be considered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Biglerville, Pennsylvania, is a complex calculation. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport all affect healthcare access. The community's support networks, educational programs, and the services offered by local hospitals also influence the overall score. A thorough assessment of these factors is essential to understand the healthcare landscape in Biglerville and to ensure that residents have access to the breast cancer screening and treatment they need.