17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.61 percent of residents in 17061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 18.02 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Access to Care in Millersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17061)**

The fight against lung cancer demands swift and consistent access to specialized healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Millersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17061), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a crucial perspective for anyone considering a move to Millersburg or seeking to understand the challenges of accessing care within the community. This is about more than just distance; it's about the practical realities of getting to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

Millersburg, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique transportation challenge. The borough itself is relatively compact, but access to comprehensive cancer care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. The primary determinant of the Lung Cancer Score is the time required to reach facilities equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in the area. The primary arteries serving Millersburg are **U.S. Route 11/15** and **Pennsylvania Route 147**. These highways provide connections to larger cities where hospitals with oncology departments are located.

The nearest major medical center with a dedicated oncology program is UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, approximately 40 miles south. Under ideal traffic conditions, the drive via **U.S. Route 11/15 South** and **Interstate 81 South** could take approximately 1 hour. However, rush hour, accidents, and inclement weather can significantly extend this travel time. This is a critical consideration for patients needing urgent care or frequent treatments.

Another option is Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill, PA. This hospital is approximately 45 miles away, and the travel time is similar to that of Harrisburg. The route involves using **U.S. Route 11/15 South** and **Interstate 83 South**. This route is less prone to heavy traffic, but is still subject to delays.

For those seeking specialized treatment, the drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is approximately 50 miles. This route typically involves **U.S. Route 322 East** and **Interstate 81 South**. The drive may take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

The Lung Cancer Score recognizes the importance of these drive times. Longer travel times translate to increased stress, fatigue, and potential delays in receiving critical care. Residents of Millersburg must factor in the time commitment when considering their healthcare options.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options are limited in Millersburg and the surrounding areas. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their health condition.

The Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service in the Harrisburg area, but it does not extend directly into Millersburg. The nearest CAT routes would require a transfer, adding to the overall travel time.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. CAT does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but the frequency and accessibility of these services in relation to travel to cancer care facilities remains a concern.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options for accessing healthcare. For residents of Millersburg, the absence of convenient public transit options is a significant factor impacting their Lung Cancer Score.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Millersburg area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden for patients needing frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or ambulance services, are another option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability and affordability of these alternative transportation options. While ride-sharing and medical transport provide valuable services, their limitations must be acknowledged.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Millersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17061) is influenced by several factors: the distance to specialized cancer care facilities, the reliability of driving times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score. Residents must be prepared for potentially lengthy travel times, which can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides some relief, but the cost and availability of these services remain concerns. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when accessing healthcare in Millersburg.

**Considerations for Moving to Millersburg**

For individuals considering a move to Millersburg, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of assessing their healthcare needs and transportation options. Potential residents should research the availability of cancer care facilities in the region and factor in the travel time and cost associated with accessing these services.

Understanding the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options is essential. This information is vital for anyone making decisions about where to live and how to access healthcare.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare in Millersburg. It underscores the need for comprehensive planning and careful consideration of transportation options for individuals affected by lung cancer.