17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.48 percent of residents in 17009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare. For residents of Burnham, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17009), the ability to access specialized care is paramount. This write-up analyzes the intricate web of **transportation** options available, evaluating their impact on **healthcare access** and ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching crucial medical services. This assessment is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Burnham**, offering a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape.

Burnham, a small borough nestled in Mifflin County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** when assessing **healthcare access**. The primary concern, should a lung cancer diagnosis arise, is the timely arrival at oncology centers and specialized medical facilities. This analysis focuses on the practicalities of reaching these essential destinations from the heart of Burnham.

The most common mode of transport is the personal vehicle. Driving from Burnham, the most direct route to major medical centers involves navigating the state's highway network. The primary artery is US-322, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-322, one can reach Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a regional healthcare provider, in approximately 10-15 minutes, a relatively favorable timeframe.

Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer treatment facility, lies approximately 60 miles east. The drive, primarily on US-322 and then onto I-81 South, typically takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

The availability of public **transportation** presents a less robust, but still viable, alternative. The Mifflin County Area Transit (MCAT) provides limited bus service within the county. However, direct routes from Burnham to major medical centers are not readily available. Passengers would likely need to transfer at the MCAT hub in Lewistown, adding significant travel time and complexity. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.

The lack of direct public **transportation** highlights a significant challenge to **healthcare access** in Burnham. Patients relying on public transit face extended travel times, potentially exacerbating the stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis. This limitation must be factored into the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an on-demand **transportation** option. While available in the Burnham area, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can also be a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide another avenue. Companies like CareRide and First Transit Medical Transport offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals unable to drive or requiring assistance during their journey. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other **transportation** options.

The impact of these **transportation** options on the Lung Cancer Score is multifaceted. The proximity of Geisinger Lewistown Hospital offers a relatively quick and convenient option for initial consultations and some treatments. However, the longer commute to Hershey Medical Center, coupled with the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation**, significantly impacts the overall score.

The Lung Cancer Score must also consider the impact of traffic. Rush hour on US-322 and I-81 can add significant delays, potentially impacting the timely arrival at appointments. Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can further complicate travel.

For individuals **moving to Burnham**, this analysis provides a crucial perspective on **healthcare access**. While the borough offers a peaceful environment, the relative isolation and the limited availability of convenient **transportation** options must be carefully considered.

The Lung Cancer Score for Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009) reflects a mixed picture. The presence of Geisinger Lewistown Hospital offers a local option, but the reliance on personal vehicles for reaching specialized cancer centers and the limitations of public **transportation** present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability must be carefully evaluated.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Burnham, PA is moderate. While the proximity of a regional hospital offers some advantages, the longer commute to specialized cancer centers, coupled with the limitations of public **transportation**, necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** options. Individuals **moving to Burnham** should thoroughly assess their **transportation** needs and consider the potential impact on their **healthcare access**, should the need for specialized cancer care arise. The ability to navigate this complex landscape is essential for ensuring timely and effective treatment, ultimately impacting the overall prognosis and quality of life.