17823, Dornsife, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17823, Dornsife, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.98 percent of residents in 17823 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 18.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dornsife (ZIP Code 17823)

Understanding healthcare access is crucial, particularly when considering a move to a new community. This assessment focuses on breast cancer care in Dornsife, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17823), examining the vital element of transportation. This score provides a snapshot of the ease with which residents can access screening, diagnosis, and treatment, impacting their overall health and well-being. We will explore the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, and how these factors contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for this rural community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities. In Dornsife, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The primary routes for accessing breast cancer care involve navigating the scenic but sometimes challenging roads of central Pennsylvania. Residents typically travel on **Route 147**, a key artery connecting Dornsife to larger towns and cities. This road offers a direct path, but its winding nature and occasional congestion can impact travel times. Heading north on **Route 147** connects to **Route 642**, which then leads to larger towns such as Sunbury.

The drive to Sunbury, a regional hub with several medical facilities, is a common destination for residents of Dornsife seeking specialized care. The journey, usually taking around 30 to 45 minutes, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours. Further, the condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly lengthen travel times, posing a challenge for those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment.

Alternatively, residents might consider heading south on **Route 147** toward Herndon and then connecting to **Route 225** for access to facilities in areas like Shamokin. These routes offer alternative pathways, but the travel times are comparable to the Sunbury route. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a factor to consider, especially for those undergoing regular treatments or follow-up appointments.

Public transportation options in Dornsife are limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public transit system, such as a bus network. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or have limited mobility. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates a reliance on other modes of transportation, which can be costly and time-consuming.

While formal public transit is scarce, the availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers a potential alternative. However, the presence and reliability of these services in Dornsife are variable. The availability of drivers can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall demand. This uncertainty can be particularly problematic for patients needing to schedule appointments, as delays or cancellations could disrupt treatment plans. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies specialize in this area, offering door-to-door service and assistance for individuals with mobility limitations. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, availability and cost can vary. Residents need to research and identify medical transportation providers operating in the Dornsife area and assess their suitability based on their specific needs and financial constraints.

The impact of these transportation factors on the "Breast Cancer Score" is considerable. The score reflects the ease with which residents can access essential breast cancer care services. A high score indicates readily available and accessible transportation options, while a low score suggests significant barriers. Factors such as drive times, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services, and the cost of transportation all contribute to the overall score.

For those considering moving to Dornsife, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential travel times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options, and the associated costs. This information will enable them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall quality of life. The ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and efficiently is paramount, especially for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Dornsife, therefore, is likely to be moderate, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options. The drive times to medical facilities, while manageable, can be impacted by traffic and weather conditions. The absence of a robust public transit system and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

To improve the "Breast Cancer Score" for Dornsife, several measures could be implemented. Investing in public transportation, such as a bus route connecting the community to nearby towns with medical facilities, would significantly enhance healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their reliable availability would also be beneficial. Providing financial assistance to low-income residents to cover transportation costs could help mitigate the financial burden associated with accessing healthcare.

Furthermore, increasing awareness of medical transportation services and their availability would empower residents to make informed choices about their healthcare needs. Educating the community about breast cancer screening and treatment options, and providing resources to navigate the healthcare system, would further enhance the overall "Breast Cancer Score."

In conclusion, assessing transportation options is vital when evaluating healthcare access, especially concerning breast cancer care. While Dornsife offers access to essential medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options present challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and prospective residents alike, enabling them to navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure timely access to vital breast cancer care services. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Dornsife can be improved by addressing the transportation barriers and implementing measures to enhance healthcare access for all residents.