17043, Lemoyne, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17043, Lemoyne, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.22 percent of residents in 17043 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center with a distance of 1.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lemoyne, PA (ZIP Code 17043)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and efficient access to specialized healthcare. In Lemoyne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17043), the ability to navigate the transportation landscape becomes a critical factor in the patient journey. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the complexities of healthcare access within this specific geographical area, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering moving to Lemoyne, focusing on how readily available and easily accessible healthcare is for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The core principle of this assessment is the understanding that time is of the essence. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, the efficiency of transportation to relevant medical facilities, particularly those specializing in lung cancer care, is paramount. This score will consider the proximity of healthcare providers, the reliability of transportation options, and the overall ease with which a patient can reach their appointments.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For many residents of Lemoyne, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Understanding the drive times to key healthcare facilities is crucial. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is a significant destination for many residents of 17043. The drive to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital typically involves navigating the local road network, often beginning on Market Street or Hummel Avenue. Depending on the specific location within Lemoyne, travel time can vary from 5 to 15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This relatively short drive time offers a significant advantage in healthcare access, allowing for quick responses to emergencies and convenient scheduling for appointments.

Another critical destination is Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This facility is a renowned center for cancer care and research. The drive to Hershey from Lemoyne requires navigating the complexities of the highway system. The primary route involves taking Interstate 83 North (I-83 N) to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 East). The total drive time can range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic volume and the specific location within Lemoyne. During peak hours, particularly on weekdays, traffic congestion on I-83 and the Turnpike can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting timely access to appointments and treatments.

Furthermore, the availability of parking at these healthcare facilities is another consideration. While both UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offer parking facilities, the cost and availability of spaces can be a factor, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

For individuals without access to personal vehicles, public transportation offers a viable alternative. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system provides bus services throughout the Harrisburg metropolitan area, including Lemoyne. CAT Route 104, for instance, offers service along Market Street, providing access to various points within Lemoyne and connecting to other routes that may facilitate travel to healthcare facilities.

The CAT system is designed to be accessible, with ADA-compliant buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the potential for longer travel times compared to driving can be a concern. Patients undergoing treatment may find the longer travel times and the need to transfer between routes challenging.

The availability of public transportation to UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is relatively straightforward, with several CAT routes providing direct access or requiring minimal transfers. However, accessing Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center via public transit requires a more complex journey, often involving multiple transfers and a significantly longer travel time. This can pose a significant barrier for patients who are already facing physical and emotional challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular as a transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation and can provide a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services in Lemoyne is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide specialized transportation for patients with specific needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While medical transportation services can be a valuable resource, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**The Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Lemoyne, PA (ZIP Code 17043) considers the factors discussed above. The proximity of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, with its relatively short drive times and accessible public transit options, contributes positively to the score. However, the longer travel times to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, particularly via public transit, and the potential challenges of traffic congestion on I-83 and the Turnpike, present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides additional flexibility and support, but the cost and accessibility of these services must be considered. The overall score reflects a balance between the advantages of convenient access to local healthcare providers and the challenges associated with accessing specialized care at facilities further afield.

**Moving to Lemoyne: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Lemoyne, the availability and accessibility of healthcare should be a key factor in their decision-making process. While Lemoyne offers relatively good access to local healthcare providers, the potential for longer travel times to specialized cancer care facilities and the limitations of public transit should be carefully considered. Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Lemoyne. It emphasizes the importance of considering all available transportation options and planning for potential challenges. This assessment is designed to empower residents and prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the care they require. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the landscape, enabling informed choices and a proactive approach to healthcare access, especially in the face of a serious diagnosis.