17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.54 percent of residents in 17028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 8.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Grantville, PA (ZIP Code 17028)

Grantville, Pennsylvania, a charming community nestled in the heart of Dauphin County, offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, the serenity of this location demands a closer look when considering access to vital healthcare services, particularly for a disease like lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focuses on the crucial element of *transportation*, evaluating how easily residents of ZIP Code 17028 can reach specialized medical facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This is especially relevant for anyone *moving to Grantville*, seeking a comprehensive understanding of healthcare *access*.

The foundation of this score lies in understanding the time and resources required to travel to hospitals and cancer centers. This includes drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing services. The goal is to provide a practical overview for residents or prospective residents, helping them make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

The primary method of *transportation* for most Grantville residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The central challenge is the distance to major medical centers. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility with a comprehensive cancer program, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. The route typically involves taking Interstate 81 South, a major north-south artery, and then transitioning onto Route 322 East. This is a relatively straightforward commute, though traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly near the Hershey area.

Another viable option is UPMC Harrisburg, located further south. The drive to UPMC Harrisburg is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route involves taking Interstate 81 South, then transitioning onto Interstate 83 South. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments or treatments requiring timely arrival. The efficiency of these routes is paramount for patients requiring urgent care or regular treatment sessions.

Local roads, like Route 743, provide alternative routes, especially for accessing local primary care physicians or urgent care facilities. However, these roads are generally less direct and may involve more stop-and-go traffic, potentially increasing travel times.

**Public Transit Options**

Public *transportation* options in Grantville are limited. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT) system. However, CAT's services in this area are not extensive. There is no direct bus route to Hershey Medical Center or UPMC Harrisburg from Grantville. Residents would likely need to rely on a combination of bus routes, potentially involving transfers, which can significantly extend travel times. This lack of readily available public transit poses a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. CAT does offer ADA-compliant buses on its routes, but the infrequency of service and the potential need for transfers can still create challenges. The reliance on public *transportation* for cancer patients, who may experience fatigue or mobility issues, is a critical factor.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Grantville area. However, their availability and cost can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand. For patients needing frequent trips to medical appointments, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become a financial burden.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several providers operate in the region, but availability and cost vary. Some insurance plans may cover medical *transportation*, but this requires careful verification.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Considering all these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17028 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Hershey Medical Center offers a significant advantage, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public *transportation* create challenges.

The score is influenced by the following:

* **Drive Times:** Relatively short drives to Hershey Medical Center are a positive factor. However, longer drives to UPMC Harrisburg necessitate careful planning.
* **Public Transit:** Limited public *transportation* significantly reduces *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability and cost of ride-sharing services add a layer of complexity.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical *transportation* services offer a valuable option, but their cost and insurance coverage must be considered.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Residents**

For individuals considering *moving to Grantville* or currently residing there, several recommendations are vital.

1. **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive or access a reliable vehicle.
2. **Explore Ride-Sharing Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
3. **Investigate Medical Transportation:** Determine if medical *transportation* is a viable option and understand insurance coverage.
4. **Understand Public Transit Limitations:** Recognize the limitations of public *transportation* and plan accordingly.
5. **Choose Healthcare Providers Wisely:** Consider the proximity of healthcare providers when selecting a primary care physician or specialist.
6. **Prioritize Early Detection:** Participate in recommended cancer screenings to improve outcomes.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Grantville, PA (ZIP Code 17028) highlights the importance of *transportation* in accessing *healthcare*. While the proximity to Hershey Medical Center provides a significant advantage, the limitations of public *transportation* and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. Careful planning, understanding available resources, and proactive health management are crucial for residents. As the community evolves, advocating for improved public *transportation* options and ensuring the availability of affordable medical *transportation* services will be essential to improve *healthcare access* for all, particularly those facing the challenges of lung cancer. This assessment underscores the need for informed decision-making and a proactive approach to health and wellness for anyone *moving to Grantville*.