17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.12 percent of residents in 17058 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 9.01 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mifflin, PA (ZIP Code 17058)

The air hangs heavy with the scent of possibility in Mifflin, Pennsylvania. Nestled in the heart of the Susquehanna Valley, this community offers a blend of rural charm and burgeoning opportunity. However, when considering a move to Mifflin, or for current residents seeking optimal healthcare, a crucial factor emerges: the ease of access to specialized medical care, specifically for lung cancer. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 17058, assessing the viability of reaching essential oncology services. It examines drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers. The primary hub for advanced oncology care for Mifflin residents is likely to be the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located approximately 40 miles east. The journey, primarily via **US Route 322** and then **Interstate 81**, offers a relatively straightforward route. In ideal traffic conditions, the drive can be completed in under an hour. However, the reality of daily commutes presents a different picture. Rush hour, particularly on **US Route 322** near State College, can significantly extend travel times, potentially pushing the commute to 90 minutes or more.

Another option, though farther afield, is the UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, about 50 miles southeast. The route involves traveling on **US Route 322** to **Interstate 83**. This trip, while slightly longer in distance, may offer comparable travel times depending on traffic patterns. Both options, however, demand a reliance on personal vehicles, highlighting a potential vulnerability for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive due to the effects of treatment.

Public transportation options within Mifflin County are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access. The local transit authority, the Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA), primarily focuses on providing demand-response services within the county. These services, while essential for local errands, are not designed for long-distance travel to specialized medical facilities. There are no direct bus routes connecting Mifflin to Hershey or Harrisburg. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts individuals who are unable to drive, elderly residents, and those with limited financial resources, potentially creating barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment.

While the MCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, these are primarily for in-county trips. The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mifflin area, but their availability and cost can vary. The cost of a ride to Hershey or Harrisburg can be substantial, especially considering the frequent appointments required for lung cancer treatment. This financial burden can further exacerbate the challenges faced by patients and their families.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide or MedRide operate in the region, providing door-to-door service with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate medical needs. While these services offer a valuable lifeline, they come with a cost, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak appointment times. Furthermore, the need to schedule these services in advance adds another layer of complexity for patients already dealing with the physical and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mifflin, PA, must therefore acknowledge the limitations of the transportation infrastructure. While the drive times to major cancer centers are reasonable under ideal conditions, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transit create vulnerabilities. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services further complicate the equation. The score, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, with significant potential for improvement through increased public transit options and subsidized transportation programs.

For individuals considering moving to Mifflin, or for current residents, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a crucial consideration. It emphasizes the importance of factoring in transportation costs and travel times when assessing healthcare access. The decision to move to Mifflin should not be made lightly. The availability of strong support networks, including family, friends, and community resources, is paramount. Exploring options for carpooling, or investigating potential assistance programs from local charities or cancer support organizations, is vital.

The community of Mifflin County, with its inherent strengths, must actively address the transportation challenges. Advocating for expanded public transit options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation, and supporting programs that provide financial assistance for medical transportation are crucial steps. These initiatives can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the life-saving care they deserve.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" is more than just a numerical assessment; it is a call to action. It highlights the intersection of healthcare access and transportation, underscoring the need for proactive community involvement. By addressing the transportation barriers, Mifflin can create a more supportive and accessible environment for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer, allowing them to focus on their health and well-being. The journey to healthcare should not be a burden, but a pathway paved with compassion, accessibility, and hope.