17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.77 percent of residents in 17097 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 22.70 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in Wiconisco, PA (ZIP Code 17097)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and comprehensive healthcare. For residents of Wiconisco, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17097), the ability to navigate the *transportation* landscape becomes a critical factor in their fight. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," examines *healthcare access* within the context of *moving to Wiconisco*, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative mobility options. The goal is to illuminate the realities of reaching vital oncology services, providing a clearer picture for those seeking care or contemplating a relocation.

Wiconisco, nestled in Dauphin County, is a small community. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are situated in Harrisburg, the state capital, and Hershey, home to the renowned Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. These locations are the primary destinations for specialized lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The journey to these centers, however, isn't always straightforward.

The most common mode of *transportation* for residents is personal vehicles. The primary artery connecting Wiconisco to the broader region is Route 209, a winding road that snakes through the Appalachian foothills. Heading south on Route 209, one can connect to Interstate 81, a major north-south thoroughfare. The drive to Harrisburg, approximately 30 miles, typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour. This drive involves navigating the winding Route 209, merging onto I-81, and then navigating the Harrisburg area.

For those traveling to Hershey, the route involves heading south on Route 209, connecting to Route 322, and then following signs to the medical center. This journey, about 35 miles, usually takes an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, again influenced by traffic, especially around the Hershey area. These drive times are crucial, as delays can impact treatment schedules and increase patient anxiety.

Alternative routes exist, but they often involve smaller, less direct roads, such as Route 147, and may add considerable time to the commute. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also be a concern, potentially hindering access to care. The *transportation* infrastructure, therefore, significantly shapes *healthcare access* for Wiconisco residents.

Public *transportation* options are limited in this rural area. Capital Area Transit (CAT), the public transit provider for the Harrisburg area, offers some services, but its reach into Wiconisco is minimal. The primary CAT routes serving the broader region are bus routes. These routes do not directly serve Wiconisco.

The nearest CAT stops would require a drive to a connecting point, such as Halifax, adding another layer of complexity to the journey. Furthermore, the frequency of these buses is not high, and service is often limited during evenings and weekends. While CAT strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, the lack of direct routes to cancer centers makes it a less viable option for many patients. The reliance on personal vehicles is, therefore, a defining characteristic of *healthcare access* in Wiconisco.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost can vary. While they offer a potential solution, particularly for those unable to drive, availability in Wiconisco may be less consistent than in more urban areas. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or when demand is high, can also present a financial burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments. Booking in advance is often recommended, but even then, cancellations can occur.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, often utilizing wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of *transportation*. However, these services typically require advance booking, and availability may be limited, especially during peak times. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, potentially impacting *healthcare access* for those with limited financial resources.

The *transportation* challenges faced by Wiconisco residents underscore the importance of proactive planning. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer must consider the distance to treatment centers, the availability of *transportation* options, and the potential for delays. This is a critical factor when *moving to Wiconisco*.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wiconisco, therefore, reflects a moderate level of *healthcare access*. While the presence of major cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor, the limited public transit options and the potential for *transportation* challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles, diminish the score.

The score would be improved by increased public transit options, including direct routes to cancer centers, and greater availability of affordable medical *transportation* services. Furthermore, initiatives to improve road conditions, particularly during winter months, would enhance *healthcare access* for all residents.

For individuals *moving to Wiconisco*, it is imperative to factor in these *transportation* considerations. Researching available *transportation* options, assessing potential travel times, and understanding the cost implications are crucial steps. Engaging with local healthcare providers to explore patient support services and *transportation* assistance programs can also help mitigate the challenges.

The journey to cancer treatment is arduous. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of addressing *transportation* barriers to ensure that residents of Wiconisco have equitable *healthcare access* and the best possible chance of overcoming this formidable disease. The score serves as a reminder of the vital link between mobility and well-being, particularly in the face of a life-threatening illness.