17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville, PA (ZIP Code 17084)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms, a stark reminder of the importance of timely healthcare access. For residents of Reedsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17084), this reality is interwoven with the complexities of transportation. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, focusing on the critical element of transportation, for those facing this challenging journey or considering a move to this community.

Reedsville, nestled in Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape. The surrounding terrain, while picturesque, influences the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This score considers the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a realistic picture of healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: A Highway to Health**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Reedsville are Pennsylvania Route 322, a major east-west thoroughfare, and US Route 322, which connects to the larger network of highways. These routes are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns and cities.

Driving times are a critical factor. For those with a lung cancer diagnosis, every minute counts. The nearest hospital, Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via PA-322 East. This proximity offers a relatively short window for emergency care and regular appointments. However, specialized oncology services may necessitate longer journeys.

For more advanced treatments, like radiation therapy or specialized surgical procedures, patients might need to travel to larger medical centers in State College or Harrisburg. A trip to State College, utilizing US-322 West, could take approximately an hour, depending on traffic. Harrisburg, further east, via PA-322 East and US-322 East, could be a journey of one and a half to two hours. These longer drives can be exhausting for patients undergoing treatment and can significantly impact their quality of life.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Mifflin County are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for the needs of patients with lung cancer. The MCTA primarily serves local communities and operates on a fixed-route system.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or walkers, is a vital concern. While the MCTA offers ADA-accessible buses, the frequency of service and route coverage might not provide adequate transportation options for frequent medical appointments. Detailed information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility features should be confirmed directly with the MCTA.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Patients should plan their transportation well in advance and confirm availability to ensure they can reach their appointments.

Medical transportation services are a crucial component of healthcare access, especially for patients who cannot drive or have limited mobility. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services can be particularly valuable for patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-operative care.

Researching and contacting medical transport providers in advance is essential. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers can provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including hospitals, clinics, and therapy centers. The cost of these services and insurance coverage should be carefully considered.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Reedsville, PA, considers the following factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The location of hospitals, oncology clinics, and specialized treatment centers.
* **Drive Times:** The estimated travel time to various healthcare providers via different routes.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of bus services.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability of specialized medical transport providers.
* **Overall Transportation Accessibility:** A comprehensive assessment of the ease with which residents can reach healthcare services.

The score will be a composite measure, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of each transportation option. A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a low score suggests significant challenges.

**Moving to Reedsville: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to Reedsville, the "Lung Cancer Score" is an essential tool. It provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access, allowing potential residents to make informed decisions. Those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions should carefully evaluate the transportation options and the availability of specialized medical services before relocating.

Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Specialists:** The distance to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists.
* **Transportation Planning:** The need for reliable transportation, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Support Systems:** The availability of family, friends, or community resources to assist with transportation and healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

Living with a lung cancer diagnosis presents unique challenges. In Reedsville, the availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in accessing timely and effective healthcare. By understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, patients and their families can navigate the road ahead with greater confidence. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool, providing a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access and empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The journey through lung cancer is arduous, but with careful planning and the right resources, navigating the transportation landscape in Reedsville can be made easier.