17015, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17015, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.85 percent of residents in 17015 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 2.76 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carlisle, PA (ZIP Code 17015)

The diagnosis of lung cancer, a formidable adversary, demands swift and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Carlisle, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17015), the accessibility of these vital services is a critical component of their overall well-being. This analysis explores the landscape of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options, to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" – a practical assessment of the journey from diagnosis to treatment. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering moving to Carlisle, weighing the proximity of healthcare facilities against the demands of daily life.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is proximity to medical facilities. In Carlisle, the primary healthcare provider is UPMC Carlisle, a full-service hospital offering comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The hospital is centrally located, making it a relatively accessible destination for most residents within the 17015 ZIP code. However, transportation options significantly influence the ease with which patients can reach UPMC Carlisle and other essential healthcare providers.

For those who prefer the independence of personal vehicles, the commute to UPMC Carlisle is generally straightforward. The hospital is conveniently situated near major roadways, including the iconic Interstate 81 (I-81), which runs north-south, and the US Route 11 (US-11), a major east-west artery. From various points within the 17015 ZIP code, the drive to the hospital typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Residents in the southern part of the ZIP code may find a slightly longer drive, potentially up to 20 minutes, particularly during peak traffic hours. The use of secondary roads, such as Harrisburg Pike, Walnut Bottom Road, and North Hanover Street, can provide alternative routes to avoid congestion on the primary highways. These roads, while offering scenic views of the Cumberland Valley, can sometimes be subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hour. The time spent in transportation is a significant factor for patients, and the relative ease of driving to UPMC Carlisle is a positive aspect of healthcare access in this area.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex scenario. The primary provider of public transit in the Carlisle area is the Capital Area Transit (CAT). CAT operates several bus routes that serve the borough and surrounding areas. However, the frequency of these routes and the coverage within the 17015 ZIP code can be limited.

The specific routes that serve the area around UPMC Carlisle include the Route 20, which runs along North Hanover Street, and the Route 3, which travels along West High Street. These routes may offer convenient access for some residents, particularly those living near the main thoroughfares. However, the wait times between buses can vary, and the routes may not directly serve all areas of the ZIP code.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. CAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This commitment to accessibility ensures that individuals with physical limitations can still utilize public transportation to reach healthcare appointments. However, the overall reliance on public transportation for cancer care, which often involves frequent appointments, can be challenging due to the potential for longer travel times and the need to coordinate schedules.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing patients to request a ride directly from their homes to UPMC Carlisle or other healthcare facilities. The availability of ride-sharing services in Carlisle is generally good, with relatively short wait times.

The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. For individuals with limited financial resources, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can be a significant burden. However, the convenience and flexibility of these services make them a valuable option, especially for patients who are unable to drive or have difficulty using public transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, are also available in the Carlisle area. These services often provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility issues.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, offering services to and from medical appointments, including chemotherapy and radiation treatments. These services often require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's policy. The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial element of healthcare access, particularly for individuals who require specialized assistance.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Carlisle, PA (17015) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity of UPMC Carlisle, the primary healthcare provider, is a significant advantage. The relatively short drive times, facilitated by the network of highways and roads, are a positive factor. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services introduce challenges.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with mobility limitations. For individuals considering moving to Carlisle, the overall assessment suggests that healthcare access is generally good, particularly for those who can drive or utilize ride-sharing services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential cost of transportation should be carefully considered.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of accessible transportation options, including a robust public transit system with frequent routes and ADA-compliant features, affordable ride-sharing services, and readily available medical transportation. As Carlisle continues to grow, improvements in these areas will further enhance the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The journey to recovery from lung cancer is arduous, and the availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a critical factor in alleviating the burden on patients and their families.