17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.76 percent of residents in 17019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center with a distance of 11.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dillsburg (ZIP Code 17019)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, is a critical component of their well-being. This write-up explores the accessibility of lung cancer treatment centers for residents of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17019), focusing on the various transportation options available and their potential impact on a patient's Lung Cancer Score. This score, for our purposes, reflects the ease and efficiency with which a patient can reach essential medical services.

Dillsburg, a charming borough nestled in central Pennsylvania, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, the location's relative isolation presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The primary considerations are drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These factors will be interwoven to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The most common method of transportation in Dillsburg is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Dillsburg to major medical centers are the **US Route 15** and the **Interstate 83**. The **US Route 15**, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides relatively direct access to Harrisburg, the state capital, and its associated healthcare facilities.

Traveling south on **US Route 15** leads to the UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, a comprehensive medical center approximately 20-25 minutes away, barring any unforeseen traffic delays. This drive time is generally manageable for routine appointments and less critical situations. However, in the event of an emergency or for more specialized treatments, this time could be a significant factor.

**Interstate 83**, running east-west, presents another option, albeit with a slightly longer drive time. Heading north on **Interstate 83** leads to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility with a dedicated cancer institute, situated approximately 40-45 minutes from Dillsburg. This drive time, while longer, provides access to a broader range of specialized services and cutting-edge treatments.

The secondary roads, such as **South Baltimore Street** and **East Harrisburg Street**, within Dillsburg offer local access to nearby medical offices and clinics. However, these roads often necessitate a connection to **US Route 15** or **Interstate 83** for reaching the major hospitals.

**Public Transportation Considerations:**

Public transportation options in Dillsburg and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's services in the Dillsburg area are infrequent and may not be a viable option for regular medical appointments. The CAT bus routes are not designed to specifically cater to medical needs.

The nearest CAT bus routes serving Dillsburg are likely to be the **Route 22** or **Route 23**, which may have limited stops within the borough. These routes are not specifically designed for healthcare access. The schedules are often infrequent, and the travel times could be significantly longer than driving, adding considerable stress to a patient's journey.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on CAT buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. CAT is legally mandated to provide accessible services, including ramps and designated seating. However, even with these features, the overall public transportation experience may still be challenging for patients undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dillsburg area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the demand.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments and treatments. The fare from Dillsburg to Harrisburg or Hershey could be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

Some medical transport brands operating in the area include CareRide, and MedStar. These services typically require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the patient's policy and medical necessity.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for residents of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17019) reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While the proximity to Harrisburg and Hershey offers access to quality healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges.

The drive times to major hospitals are generally manageable, but the potential for traffic delays and the need for personal vehicles can add stress to the patient's journey. The limited availability of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

Medical transport services offer a viable solution for patients with specific needs, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered. The overall Lung Cancer Score for Dillsburg residents would be moderately positive, with the caveat that patients must carefully plan their transportation options and consider the potential financial and logistical burdens associated with healthcare access.

**Moving to Dillsburg:**

For individuals considering a move to Dillsburg, it is essential to factor in the transportation and healthcare access considerations. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, the relative isolation and the limited public transportation options could pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical care. Prospective residents should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and the availability of transportation resources before making a decision. They should consider the drive times, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare.