17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 17324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is not simply a medical one. It's a logistical, emotional, and financial undertaking, heavily influenced by the accessibility of care. This write-up analyzes the “Breast Cancer Score” for residents of Gardners, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17324), evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Gardners or currently residing there, especially those seeking comprehensive breast cancer care.

Gardners, a charming borough nestled in Adams County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While the area boasts a rural tranquility, this serenity often translates to limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles. The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential services like mammograms, biopsies, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical consultations.

**The Road Ahead: Driving to Care**

For most Gardners residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments is a personal vehicle. The closest significant medical centers, equipped with comprehensive breast cancer services, are located in Gettysburg, Harrisburg, and York. The drive times vary significantly depending on traffic and the specific destination.

Reaching Gettysburg Hospital, offering diagnostic imaging and some outpatient services, is generally the most accessible option. The journey typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 394, also known as Gettysburg Pike. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. This relatively short commute offers a significant advantage for early detection and follow-up appointments.

For more specialized care, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, residents often travel to Harrisburg or York. The trip to Harrisburg, home to UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, involves a longer journey. Drivers typically take Pennsylvania Route 394, then connect to US Route 15 South, followed by Interstate 81 North. The drive can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a significant time commitment, especially for frequent appointments.

York, with its WellSpan York Hospital and UPMC Memorial Hospital, offers another option. The route typically involves Pennsylvania Route 394, US Route 30 East, and Pennsylvania Route 74. The drive time to York is comparable to Harrisburg, approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This time commitment, combined with the potential for traffic congestion, can add considerable stress to an already challenging situation.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Gardners are extremely limited. The Adams County Transit Authority (ACTA) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and primarily focus on connecting rural areas with Gettysburg. ACTA does not provide direct transportation to Harrisburg or York.

ACTA operates with some ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of routes and the limited service area make public transportation a less viable option for most breast cancer patients needing regular appointments. The lack of convenient public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This makes healthcare access considerably more challenging for a segment of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Gardners area, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, making it an unsustainable option for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), can provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive safely. However, these services often require advance booking and can also be costly. Their availability and coverage area vary, so it’s crucial to research local providers and understand their service parameters.

**The Financial Burden of Transportation**

The cost of transportation is a significant factor in healthcare access, especially for breast cancer patients. The expenses associated with driving – fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees – can quickly add up. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services further increase the financial burden. This financial strain can impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan and attend all necessary appointments.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Gardners, PA (17324) is influenced by the limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical centers. While Gettysburg offers relatively convenient access, the need to travel to Harrisburg or York for comprehensive care presents significant transportation challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides some support, but their cost and reliability are factors to consider.

**Moving to Gardners: A Proactive Approach**

For individuals considering moving to Gardners, or those already residing there, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. Researching local medical providers, understanding transportation options, and exploring financial assistance programs can help mitigate the challenges. Establishing a support network, including family, friends, and community organizations, can also provide valuable assistance with transportation and other needs.

The Breast Cancer Score is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their time of need. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing the challenges, residents of Gardners can improve their healthcare access and navigate the complexities of breast cancer care with greater ease and confidence. This understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about where to live and how to access the healthcare needed.