17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.04 percent of residents in 17361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 12.79 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361)

The quest for timely and effective breast cancer care is a journey, one that extends beyond diagnosis and treatment. It encompasses the practicalities of accessing healthcare, a crucial element often overlooked. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17361), assesses the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on patient journeys. For those considering moving to Shrewsbury, or residents seeking improved healthcare access, this score provides a vital perspective.

Shrewsbury, nestled in southern York County, presents a unique challenge: a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. This duality shapes the accessibility of healthcare facilities, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

The primary healthcare hubs for breast cancer care are located outside of Shrewsbury. UPMC Memorial Hospital in York and WellSpan York Hospital are the major players, offering comprehensive services from screening and diagnosis to surgery and chemotherapy. These facilities, approximately 15-20 miles away, are the cornerstones of healthcare access for residents.

Driving is the predominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries are Interstate 83 (I-83) and Pennsylvania Route 851. I-83 offers a relatively swift route, though rush hour traffic can significantly extend travel times. Route 851, a more local road, provides an alternative, but its winding nature and potential for slower speeds require consideration. The journey to either hospital can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the hospital complex. This time factor is critical for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care, and can significantly impact a patient's well-being.

Public transportation options are limited. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus services, but coverage in Shrewsbury and the surrounding areas is sparse. Route 15, while potentially offering some service, has limited frequency and may not directly serve the hospitals. Furthermore, ADA accessibility is a key consideration. While YCTA strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and the ease of navigating routes can be a challenge, particularly for patients with mobility limitations. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation. Availability in Shrewsbury is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand (such as early morning appointments or late-night treatments) can make these services expensive. The reliability of these services, especially in inclement weather or during periods of high demand, is another factor to consider. Patients need dependable transportation, and the unpredictability of ride-sharing can create anxiety and logistical challenges.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like MedStar and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who cannot drive or have mobility issues. However, these services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies. Understanding insurance coverage and the availability of these services is essential for patients in Shrewsbury.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, therefore, reflects the complexity of healthcare access. While the proximity to major hospitals is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing create challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a vital alternative, but the cost and insurance coverage considerations are significant.

For individuals considering moving to Shrewsbury, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key factor in their decision. Researching the availability of transportation options, understanding insurance coverage for medical transport, and exploring the potential impact of traffic on appointment times are all crucial steps.

The score also highlights the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, advocating for expanded public transit routes, and promoting awareness of medical transport options can all contribute to a more supportive healthcare environment for breast cancer patients in Shrewsbury.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP code 17361) underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical element of healthcare access. While Shrewsbury offers proximity to essential medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of alternative transportation options necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely and accessible care for all. Addressing these challenges is essential to fostering a supportive and accessible healthcare landscape for the community.