17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.12 percent of residents in 17023 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 20.32 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elizabethville, PA (ZIP Code 17023)

Elizabethville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Dauphin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, examines the crucial element of transportation, a vital link connecting residents to potentially life-saving medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Elizabethville or seeking care within the 17023 ZIP code.

The journey for lung cancer patients often involves frequent appointments: diagnostic scans, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. The ability to reliably and comfortably reach these appointments is paramount. For residents of Elizabethville, the primary mode of transportation will likely be personal vehicles. The town's relative isolation means that drive times to specialized lung cancer care centers are significant.

The closest major medical facilities with comprehensive oncology services are located in Harrisburg, the state capital. The drive to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a prominent cancer center, is approximately 40 to 50 minutes, primarily via **Route 22** and **Interstate 81**. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact this travel time, potentially adding 15 to 20 minutes to the commute. Another option is Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, also in Harrisburg, accessible via **Route 22** and **Interstate 81**, with a similar travel time.

Further afield, the drive to Hershey Medical Center, renowned for its specialized cancer care, takes approximately one hour, primarily utilizing **Route 22** and **Interstate 81**. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing treatments that can cause fatigue or other side effects. The quality of the roads, the availability of rest stops, and the potential for traffic delays become critical factors in ensuring a safe and stress-free journey. These factors are all considered in the Lung Cancer Score.

Public transportation options in Elizabethville are limited. Capital Area Transit (CAT), the regional public transit authority, does not directly serve Elizabethville. The closest CAT bus routes are located in Harrisburg, requiring a significant drive or a combination of transportation methods to reach. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their illness.

For individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. However, the availability of these services in Elizabethville can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially with the frequency of medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score considers the reliability and affordability of these services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies operate in the Harrisburg area, offering specialized vehicles and trained drivers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, helping patients navigate the complexities of medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score includes an assessment of the availability, cost, and quality of these medical transportation providers.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services for individuals with disabilities. While CAT services in Harrisburg are ADA-compliant, the lack of direct routes to Elizabethville limits their usefulness. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers also offer accessible vehicles, ensuring that patients with mobility limitations can access the care they need.

The Lung Cancer Score for Elizabethville, 17023, acknowledges the challenges presented by its rural location. While the drive times to major cancer centers in Harrisburg and Hershey are manageable, they require careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation services.

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethville, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the cost and reliability of transportation to and from medical appointments, as well as the potential impact of travel time on their overall well-being. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, emphasizes the need for proactive planning and the exploration of all available transportation options to ensure access to timely and effective lung cancer care.

The Lung Cancer Score will also consider the availability of local healthcare providers in Elizabethville. While specialized oncology services are not available locally, the presence of primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals can provide crucial support and coordination of care. The ability to receive some aspects of care closer to home can reduce the burden of travel, improving the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score will factor in the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. These resources can help patients navigate the complexities of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, providing emotional, practical, and financial support. The proximity and accessibility of these services can significantly impact the quality of life for lung cancer patients in Elizabethville.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Elizabethville, PA (17023) highlights the importance of transportation as a key determinant of healthcare access. While the area offers access to reputable cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options. For individuals considering moving to Elizabethville or seeking lung cancer care in the area, a comprehensive understanding of these transportation challenges is essential to ensuring timely and effective access to treatment and support services. The score emphasizes that while Elizabethville offers a peaceful setting, the journey to healthcare requires careful navigation of its transportation landscape.