17017, Dalmatia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17017, Dalmatia, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.13 percent of residents in 17017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 22.96 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17017

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and effective healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 17017, nestled in the heart of Dalmatia, Pennsylvania, the accessibility of quality medical care is a critical factor in their well-being. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease with which residents can access diagnostic and treatment facilities, considering the challenges of **transportation** in a rural setting. It's a crucial consideration, particularly for those contemplating **moving to Dalmatia** or seeking improved **healthcare access**.

Dalmatia, a community woven with the threads of rural life, presents a unique set of challenges. The landscape, while beautiful, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands. Public **transportation** options are limited, and the availability of ride-sharing services can be inconsistent. Understanding these realities is paramount when evaluating the feasibility of receiving timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

The primary healthcare hubs for residents of 17017 are located in surrounding towns and cities. Harrisburg, with its comprehensive medical facilities, is a significant destination. Similarly, the medical centers in Sunbury and Shamokin offer specialized services. The journey to these locations, however, is not always straightforward, particularly for individuals facing the physical limitations imposed by a lung cancer diagnosis.

The most direct route to Harrisburg from Dalmatia involves navigating the winding roads that characterize the region. Heading south, drivers typically utilize Pennsylvania Route 147, a scenic but often congested road, especially during peak hours. This route connects to U.S. Route 22/322, a major artery leading directly into Harrisburg. Under ideal conditions, the drive can be completed in approximately 45 minutes. However, traffic, weather, and the condition of the roads can easily extend this time.

The journey to Sunbury, a shorter distance, involves traveling north on Route 147, then connecting to U.S. Route 11. This drive, typically taking around 30 minutes, offers a slightly less congested alternative. The route to Shamokin, further north, is predominantly via Route 147 and Pennsylvania Route 61. This trip, usually taking around 40 minutes, is also subject to the same variables that affect travel times to the other destinations.

Public **transportation** options in 17017 are limited. The local bus service, if available, may not offer direct routes to major medical centers. Often, multiple transfers would be required, significantly increasing travel time and adding to the physical strain on patients. The availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility issues, is also a concern, requiring thorough investigation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Patients often find themselves relying on family, friends, or volunteer drivers, placing an additional burden on their support networks.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by MedStar or First Transit, provide specialized assistance for patients needing non-emergency medical transport. These services, while helpful, often require advance booking and can be costly. Their availability may also be limited, especially for appointments scheduled on short notice. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves but lack readily available support.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 17017 is also influenced by the location of specialized medical facilities. For lung cancer care, this includes oncologists, pulmonologists, and radiation therapy centers. While general practitioners may be available locally, patients often need to travel to larger hospitals and cancer centers for specialized treatment.

The UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, a comprehensive medical center, is a primary destination for many patients. It offers a wide range of oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The drive to Harrisburg, as mentioned earlier, is a significant factor in **healthcare access**.

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a renowned regional medical center, is another option, though the drive is further. This center offers cutting-edge lung cancer treatment options, including clinical trials. The longer travel distance, however, presents a greater challenge for patients.

Smaller, local clinics may offer limited diagnostic services, such as X-rays and CT scans, but these facilities often lack the advanced equipment and expertise needed for complex lung cancer cases. Patients may need to travel to larger facilities for further evaluation and treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17017 reflects the interplay of these factors. The score considers drive times, the availability of public **transportation**, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical **transportation** services. It also takes into account the proximity of specialized medical facilities and the overall burden placed on patients and their families.

For individuals considering **moving to Dalmatia**, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a crucial perspective on **healthcare access**. It highlights the need for careful planning and preparation. This includes researching available **transportation** options, identifying potential support networks, and understanding the financial implications of frequent medical appointments.

The score also underscores the importance of advocating for improved **healthcare access** in rural communities. This could include supporting the expansion of public **transportation** services, encouraging the availability of ride-sharing options, and promoting the development of telemedicine programs to reduce the need for travel.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that the fight against lung cancer extends beyond medical treatment. It also involves addressing the practical challenges of accessing quality healthcare, ensuring that residents of 17017 have the support they need to navigate their journey. The ability to navigate the complexities of **transportation** to medical facilities is vital for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, and for those considering **moving to Dalmatia**, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential.