17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17004, Belleville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.00 percent of residents in 17004 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 8.82 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Belleville, PA (ZIP Code 17004)

Belleville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, offers a serene rural charm. However, when considering a move, especially for those with or at risk of lung cancer, the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This Lung Cancer Score analysis for ZIP Code 17004 examines the transportation landscape, focusing on healthcare access, specifically for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making, as effective treatment often hinges on timely and consistent access to specialized medical facilities.

The score considers the ease of reaching specialized healthcare providers, taking into account drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals living with or at risk of lung cancer in Belleville. This information is vital for anyone contemplating moving to Belleville, ensuring they can proactively plan for their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary mode of transportation in Belleville is the personal vehicle. The closest major medical facilities specializing in lung cancer care are located in Lewistown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **US-322 West**. This route offers relatively straightforward access, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours. The drive involves well-maintained roads, but winter weather conditions can pose challenges, potentially extending travel times and necessitating careful planning.

For more specialized care, including advanced treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to facilities in Harrisburg, a significantly longer journey. The drive to Harrisburg, using **US-322 East** and then connecting to **I-81 South**, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful consideration of the patient's physical condition and the frequency of required appointments. The drive involves highway travel, with potential for delays due to accidents or construction.

Further afield, specialized cancer centers in Hershey, PA, offer advanced treatment options. The drive to Hershey, using **US-322 East** and **PA-322 East**, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, again depending on traffic. This longer distance emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation and the potential need for overnight stays for certain treatments. The availability of parking at these facilities should also be factored into the overall assessment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Mifflin County are limited. The Mifflin County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) operates a public transit system, but its services are primarily designed to serve the local area. While MCRPC offers some routes that may connect to Lewistown, these routes are infrequent and may not directly serve the medical facilities. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these routes should be confirmed with MCRPC.

For trips to Harrisburg or Hershey, public transit is not a viable option due to the lack of direct routes and the extended travel times. Reliance on public transportation for lung cancer treatment would be extremely challenging, highlighting the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations like Belleville. The reliability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, should be carefully considered. Booking in advance is often recommended to ensure availability.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including MedStar and AMR (American Medical Response). These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including specialized care facilities. The cost of these services can be significant, and insurance coverage should be verified.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The healthcare access score for lung cancer patients in Belleville is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. While Lewistown offers immediate access to basic care, specialized treatment often necessitates longer commutes. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

The limited public transit options exacerbate the problem, leaving ride-sharing and medical transport as the primary alternatives. The availability, reliability, and cost of these services are critical factors in determining the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Moving to Belleville: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Belleville, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. While the rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle, the transportation challenges associated with lung cancer treatment must be carefully considered.

Potential residents should research the availability of local healthcare providers, including oncologists, pulmonologists, and support services. They should also investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Planning for transportation needs, including potential costs, is vital. This includes exploring options for family support, caregiver assistance, and long-term transportation solutions.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Patient Needs**

The Lung Cancer Score for Belleville, PA (ZIP Code 17004) underscores the importance of prioritizing patient needs when considering healthcare access. While Belleville offers a desirable lifestyle, the transportation limitations present challenges for those with or at risk of lung cancer.

A comprehensive understanding of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services is crucial for informed decision-making. Careful planning, proactive research, and a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape are essential for ensuring access to timely and effective treatment. This analysis serves as a valuable resource for individuals considering a move to Belleville, helping them navigate the complexities of healthcare access and make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being.