17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17870, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.02 percent of residents in 17870 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 16.91 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Selinsgrove (ZIP Code 17870)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires a seamless and accessible transportation network. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17870), to assess the ease with which residents can access vital breast cancer care, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, crucial elements for anyone moving to Selinsgrove or currently residing there.

Selinsgrove, a charming borough nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, the availability and efficiency of transportation options significantly impact healthcare access, especially for those facing the challenges of breast cancer treatment. The ability to reach appointments, undergo treatments, and receive follow-up care is paramount.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many Selinsgrove residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this option hinges on the road network. The primary artery for reaching larger medical centers is Route 11, a major north-south thoroughfare. Driving north on Route 11, one can access Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a comprehensive facility known for its cancer care, within approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable commute for routine appointments.

Alternatively, heading south on Route 11, followed by a connection onto Route 322, provides access to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a more extensive facility offering specialized cancer treatments. This journey, however, is considerably longer, taking roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, potentially adding stress to an already challenging situation.

Smaller, more localized medical practices, like the Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, are accessible via Route 15, offering a slightly shorter commute of around 20 minutes. However, the availability of specialized breast cancer services at these smaller facilities may be limited.

Traffic conditions on these highways, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Construction projects, common in the region, can further exacerbate delays. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the importance of reliable, predictable drive times for timely access to care.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of Community**

Public transportation plays a vital role in bridging the gap for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) operates several bus routes within the region. However, direct routes to major medical centers from Selinsgrove are limited.

The primary bus route serving Selinsgrove is the Route 1, which provides local transportation within the borough and connects to neighboring towns. While this route may offer a connection to other SVTA routes, the journey to Danville or Hershey via public transit would involve multiple transfers and significantly extended travel times, potentially exceeding two hours each way.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. SVTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the extended travel times and multiple transfers inherent in using public transit for accessing cancer care pose a considerable challenge. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the limitations of public transit in providing timely and convenient access to specialized care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services in Selinsgrove can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance with transportation, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation, often contracted by insurance providers. These services can offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and luggage.

However, the availability and coverage of these services depend on insurance plans and the specific needs of the patient. The "Breast Cancer Score" recognizes the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transport but also acknowledges the limitations in terms of cost, availability, and insurance coverage.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving to Selinsgrove**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Selinsgrove (ZIP Code 17870), the "Breast Cancer Score" is a reflection of the ease with which residents can access breast cancer care. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options.

The score is not a definitive metric, but it serves as a valuable tool for individuals considering a move to Selinsgrove or for current residents navigating the healthcare landscape. For those with a breast cancer diagnosis, or those at high risk, the proximity of specialized care and the reliability of transportation options are critical factors.

The score would be higher for areas with shorter drive times to comprehensive cancer centers, robust public transit options with direct routes, and readily available ride-sharing and medical transport services. Selinsgrove, while offering a pleasant environment, presents challenges in terms of transportation to specialized cancer care.

When moving to Selinsgrove, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. Researching the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the specifics of their insurance coverage is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential impact of traffic on drive times is also crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" encourages a proactive approach to healthcare access. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of the overall healthcare experience. This is particularly true for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer treatment, where timely and convenient access to care can significantly impact outcomes and quality of life.