17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.46 percent of residents in 17024 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 17.93 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Elliottsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17024)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective access to specialized medical care. For residents of Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17024), the journey to healthcare, particularly for lung cancer treatment, is a critical factor in their overall well-being and survival. This "Lung Cancer Score" examines the complexities of transportation and healthcare access in this rural community, providing a comprehensive overview for those seeking care or considering moving to Elliottsburg.

Elliottsburg, nestled in Perry County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character means that healthcare facilities, especially those specializing in oncology, are not readily available within the immediate vicinity. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes paramount, dictating the speed and ease with which patients can reach vital medical appointments, from initial screenings to life-saving treatments. This score considers the various modes of transportation available, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services.

The primary artery connecting Elliottsburg to the broader healthcare network is **Pennsylvania Route 34**. This road, while scenic, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours and inclement weather. Heading south on Route 34 leads to Carlisle, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, where residents can access UPMC Carlisle, a hospital offering various medical services. However, Carlisle might not offer the specialized oncology care required for lung cancer treatment.

For more comprehensive care, patients typically need to travel further. Heading east on Route 34, and then merging onto **Interstate 81**, offers a faster route to Harrisburg, the state capital. This journey, taking roughly an hour, provides access to more advanced medical facilities, including UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. These hospitals boast specialized oncology departments and comprehensive cancer treatment programs.

The drive time to these facilities is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Longer travel times can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis, potentially delaying treatment and impacting patient outcomes. Furthermore, the cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, adds a financial burden to an already challenging situation.

Public transportation options in Elliottsburg are limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, serving the Harrisburg area, does not extend its routes into Elliottsburg. This severely restricts access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, or those who cannot afford private transportation.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility of transportation options is another critical consideration. Without accessible public transit, individuals with mobility limitations face significant barriers to healthcare access. The absence of ADA-compliant services further lowers the Lung Cancer Score for this population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Elliottsburg is inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, adding to the financial strain on patients. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services directly influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transport services play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) can provide door-to-door service for patients requiring assistance. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. The availability and affordability of NEMT providers in Elliottsburg contribute to the Lung Cancer Score.

Several medical transport brands serve the broader Harrisburg area, including First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These companies offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. The ability to secure reliable and affordable medical transportation is crucial for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

When considering moving to Elliottsburg, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the challenges associated with accessing specialized cancer care in this rural community. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the distance to comprehensive medical facilities requires careful planning and consideration.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that considers various factors influencing healthcare access. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, including understanding drive times, exploring transportation options, and researching medical transport services. The score is a tool to empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, timely access to specialized care is paramount. The challenges of transportation in Elliottsburg underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. This includes advocating for improved public transit options, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and ensuring the accessibility of medical transport services.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a reminder of the vital link between transportation and healthcare access. It encourages residents of Elliottsburg to proactively address their transportation needs, ensuring they can navigate the healthcare system with confidence and receive the timely and effective treatment they deserve. This is especially important for those considering moving to Elliottsburg, who should factor in the transportation challenges when making their decision.