Lung Cancer Score

17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

Travel Score in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.23 percent of residents in 17050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 2.98 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Lung Cancer Score 79
People Score 49
Provider Score 86
Hospital Score 27
Travel Score 75

Closest Hospital - PENN STATE HEALTH HAMPDEN MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 17050 Mechanicsburg Pennsylvania
No Cars 2.66 2.11 5.04
1 Car 15.00 19.09 21.45
2 Cars 48.42 45.36 41.29
3 or More Cars 33.92 33.44 32.22

Vehicular Access in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17050)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare access. For residents of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17050), the ability to navigate the complex healthcare landscape, particularly in the face of a potential diagnosis, is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," assessing the ease with which individuals can access vital diagnostic and treatment services, considering the crucial element of **transportation**. This analysis will illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** in the area, offering insights for current residents and those **moving to Mechanicsburg**.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the principle that timely access to care directly impacts patient outcomes. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly diminish the chances of successful intervention. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" weighs the accessibility of key medical facilities, factoring in various **transportation** options available to residents.

Mechanicsburg, a charming borough nestled in Cumberland County, benefits from its proximity to larger urban centers while maintaining a distinct small-town character. This geographic positioning influences **healthcare access**, presenting both advantages and challenges. The primary consideration is the location of hospitals and specialized cancer centers offering comprehensive lung cancer services.

The closest major medical facilities include UPMC Carlisle, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Interstate 81** or **US Route 11**. UPMC Harrisburg, a more comprehensive facility, is roughly a 25-35 minute drive, primarily utilizing **Interstate 83** and **US Route 322**. These drive times, while generally manageable, are subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

The availability of reliable **transportation** is critical. For individuals with limited mobility or those without personal vehicles, the reliance on alternative modes becomes crucial. Public transit options in the Mechanicsburg area are, unfortunately, limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system provides bus service, but its routes within Mechanicsburg are infrequent and may not directly serve all medical facilities. Route 104, for example, offers service along **US Route 11**, but its schedule may not align with the needs of patients requiring frequent appointments. ADA accessibility on CAT buses is available, but the limited frequency and route coverage pose a significant hurdle for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. Their availability in Mechanicsburg is generally good, but the cost can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments. The financial burden of consistent ride-sharing expenses can add to the stress already associated with a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local ambulance providers, are available for patients requiring specialized assistance. These services are typically reserved for those with medical needs that prevent them from using standard **transportation**. However, they can be costly and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of specialized cancer centers. Penn State Health Cancer Institute, located in Hershey, is a highly regarded facility offering comprehensive lung cancer treatment. The drive to Hershey, typically via **US Route 322**, takes approximately 30-45 minutes. This longer travel time underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** and the potential for fatigue and discomfort for patients undergoing treatment.

The score also evaluates the presence of support services, such as oncology clinics, radiation therapy centers, and pulmonary specialists, closer to Mechanicsburg. The availability of these services minimizes the need for long-distance travel for routine appointments and follow-up care. The presence of these local resources contributes positively to the overall score.

Furthermore, the score considers the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations. These resources provide crucial emotional and practical support to patients and their families. Easy access to these resources, whether through in-person meetings or virtual platforms, is essential for navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17050) is influenced by several factors. The proximity to UPMC Carlisle offers relatively quick access to basic medical care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for accessing more specialized care at UPMC Harrisburg or the Penn State Health Cancer Institute introduces potential challenges. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing create barriers for individuals without personal vehicles or those facing financial constraints.

For individuals **moving to Mechanicsburg**, it is crucial to assess their **transportation** needs and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. Considering the potential for a lung cancer diagnosis, prioritizing a location with easy access to comprehensive cancer care is wise. This may involve choosing a residence closer to major medical centers or ensuring access to reliable **transportation** options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a reflection of the dynamic interplay between healthcare resources and the ability of residents to access them. Regular updates to the score, incorporating changes in public transit routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of local healthcare facilities, are essential to provide an accurate assessment.

The score also considers the availability of preventative care resources, such as smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening programs. Early detection is crucial in improving outcomes. Access to these programs is therefore a significant component of the overall score.

The score also considers the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can provide access to specialists and support services, reducing the need for in-person appointments, especially for those with **transportation** challenges.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Mechanicsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17050) reveals a mixed landscape. While the proximity to major medical facilities offers advantages, the limitations of public transit and the potential cost of ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents. For individuals **moving to Mechanicsburg**, careful consideration of **transportation** needs and the accessibility of healthcare facilities is essential. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all residents, particularly those facing the daunting prospect of a lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of comprehensive cancer care, coupled with reliable **transportation** options, is crucial for improving patient outcomes and ensuring a higher quality of life.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review
Health Scores Near 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

You may also like

17025, Enola, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 3.66 Miles

Total Population: 16,883

17011, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 3.85 Miles

Total Population: 38,061

17072, New Kingstown, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 4.26 Miles

Total Population: None

17055, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 4.33 Miles

Total Population: 38,912

17043, Lemoyne, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 5.07 Miles

Total Population: 5,820

17093, Summerdale, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 5.53 Miles

Total Population: 1,083

17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 5.69 Miles

Total Population: 5,100

17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 6.22 Miles

Total Population: 646

17027, Grantham, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 17050: 6.61 Miles

Total Population: 2,600

Health Scores in 17050, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania