17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17063, Milroy, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.92 percent of residents in 17063 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 7.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milroy, PA (ZIP Code 17063)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, demanding immediate access to specialized care. For residents of Milroy, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17063), the journey to healthcare, particularly for oncology services, is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the transportation landscape, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this rural community. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that await those seeking treatment.

Milroy, nestled within the heart of Mifflin County, presents a unique transportation profile. The town's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands, including those related to healthcare. The primary artery is **Route 322**, a crucial east-west corridor that connects Milroy to larger population centers. Traveling west on Route 322 offers access to Lewistown, the county seat, where some basic medical services are available. However, specialized oncology care often necessitates travel further afield.

Heading east on **Route 322**, the journey leads towards Harrisburg, the state capital, and the location of more comprehensive medical facilities. The drive, however, is not a simple one. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times. The winding roads, particularly in the mountainous terrain, can also be challenging, especially for patients with compromised health.

Beyond Route 322, the availability of alternative routes is limited. **Route 655**, a north-south road, provides some connectivity but is not a primary route for accessing major healthcare providers. The condition of these secondary roads can also vary, impacting travel times and safety, particularly during inclement weather.

The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers is a significant factor. For residents of Milroy, reaching the UPMC Pinnacle Cancer Center in Harrisburg, a well-regarded facility, typically requires a drive of approximately one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. This journey, while manageable, demands careful planning and consideration for the patient's physical and emotional state.

The availability of public transportation in Milroy is limited. The Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA) offers bus services, but these are primarily focused on local routes and do not provide direct or frequent service to the major healthcare centers in Harrisburg. The MCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited schedule and route coverage make public transit a less viable option for many patients seeking timely cancer care.

The MCTA operates several routes, including Route 1 (Lewistown Loop), Route 2 (Reedsville/Milroy), and Route 3 (McVeytown/Allensville). While Route 2 does serve Milroy, its frequency and destinations may not align with the needs of cancer patients requiring specialized treatment. Furthermore, the transfer times and overall journey duration via public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding to the patient's stress and fatigue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Milroy and surrounding areas is often less reliable than in larger urban centers. Availability can be sporadic, and surge pricing during peak hours or in times of high demand can make these services expensive. The cost of frequent rides to and from treatment centers can quickly become a financial burden for patients and their families.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and Liberty Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to cater to the specific needs of patients with mobility limitations or other health concerns. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more costly than ride-sharing or public transit.

For individuals considering moving to Milroy, understanding the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access is crucial. The rural nature of the community, while offering a peaceful environment, necessitates careful consideration of the distance to specialized medical facilities. Patients with a history of cancer or at high risk should factor in the travel time, the availability of transportation options, and the potential financial implications when making their decision.

The challenges are not insurmountable. Careful planning, utilizing available resources, and exploring all transportation options can help mitigate the difficulties. The support of family, friends, and community organizations is also vital in navigating the healthcare landscape.

The Lung Cancer Score for Milroy, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to major cancer centers are manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services offers a valuable alternative, but at a higher cost.

For individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, or those at risk, the journey to healthcare in Milroy requires a proactive approach. Understanding the transportation landscape, planning ahead, and seeking support from available resources are essential steps in ensuring timely access to the care they need. The decision to move to Milroy, for those seeking a quieter life, must include a realistic assessment of the demands that healthcare access will place on them.