17029, Granville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17029, Granville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 5.28 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Granville, PA (ZIP Code 17029)

Granville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," focuses on the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare, specifically for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer, considering the geographical realities of ZIP code 17029. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape for those needing specialized medical care, offering insights for current residents and those potentially **moving to Granville**.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the crucial link between timely access to medical facilities and the potential for positive health outcomes, particularly in the context of a serious illness like lung cancer. This score will evaluate the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to determine how readily residents can reach essential healthcare providers. The focus is on the practicalities of getting to appointments, undergoing treatments, and receiving follow-up care, all of which are vital for effective lung cancer management.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For residents of Granville, the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare is often the personal vehicle. The proximity of medical facilities, and the efficiency of travel times, significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The major arteries guiding residents toward specialized care are primarily Route 322 and Route 75.

Heading east on Route 322, the drive to the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, the closest major medical center, is typically a 15-20 minute journey, depending on traffic. This route offers a relatively straightforward and direct path, making it a viable option for routine appointments and emergency situations. The hospital provides comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, making it a critical resource for those diagnosed with lung cancer.

Traveling west on Route 322, or south on Route 75, opens up access to larger regional healthcare hubs, such as Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This trip, however, involves a significantly longer drive, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route, while longer, provides access to specialized oncology centers, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options that may not be available locally.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can affect travel times and should be considered. Winter storms can significantly increase drive times and create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying critical medical care. Furthermore, the availability of parking at these facilities, especially during peak hours, can add to the overall time commitment and stress associated with healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Granville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides a modest public transit network. However, its services are not specifically designed for healthcare access, and routes may not directly connect to major medical facilities.

The MCTA offers demand-response services, which require advance booking. These services are available to residents within the county. However, the availability of these services, particularly for same-day appointments, can be limited. This limitation poses a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or those undergoing frequent treatments.

ADA accessibility is provided on all MCTA buses. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, a common issue for those undergoing lung cancer treatment. The ability to access and utilize public transit is, therefore, a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The lack of direct routes and the need for advance booking significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The limited frequency of service and the potential for delays can create significant challenges for individuals needing timely access to medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Granville area, but their availability can be sporadic. The relatively rural nature of the area can lead to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for those needing consistent and timely transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. The availability and cost of these services vary, and they may require advance booking.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the financial implications of these transportation options, as they can directly impact a patient's ability to access necessary care.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Granville (ZIP code 17029) must reflect the complex interplay of these transportation factors. While the relatively short drive to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital provides a positive element, the longer drive times to larger regional centers, the limitations of public transit, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower overall score.

The score will also need to consider the availability of support services for cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. The proximity of these services and their accessibility via available transportation options will further influence the score.

For individuals **moving to Granville**, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is crucial. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the availability of support services before making a decision.

**Moving to Granville: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For those considering **moving to Granville**, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning and consideration. The proximity of healthcare facilities is a key factor, but the reliability and affordability of transportation are equally important.

Individuals with existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments or specialized treatments, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and their potential impact on their healthcare access. Researching the availability of medical transport services, assessing the reliability of ride-sharing options, and exploring the potential for utilizing public transit are all crucial steps.

Furthermore, potential residents should investigate the availability of support services for cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services can play a vital role in managing the emotional, practical, and financial challenges associated with a cancer diagnosis.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing healthcare access in Granville, PA. It emphasizes the critical link between transportation and healthcare outcomes, providing essential insights for residents and those considering **moving to Granville**. By understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they have the support they need to navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment and care.