17098, Williamstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17098, Williamstown, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.47 percent of residents in 17098 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 25.08 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamstown, PA (ZIP Code 17098)

The air in Williamstown, Pennsylvania, whispers tales of coal and community, a history etched into the very landscape. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the air also carries a weight of concern: the accessibility of timely and quality healthcare. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, explores the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 17098, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking treatment. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of **transportation** options, ultimately affecting **healthcare access** and influencing decisions for those **moving to Williamstown** or seeking care in the area.

Williamstown, nestled in the heart of Dauphin County, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The town's relative isolation, while offering a sense of tranquility, necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** logistics, particularly for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment, which often involves frequent appointments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a picture of the realities of **healthcare access** in this specific geographic area.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Williamstown is **Route 209**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the valley. Heading south, **Route 209** connects to **Interstate 81**, a major north-south thoroughfare. This connection is crucial for accessing larger medical centers in Harrisburg and Hershey, which are likely to offer more comprehensive lung cancer treatment options. The drive to Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. Similarly, reaching UPMC Harrisburg, another prominent hospital, requires a similar travel time.

North of Williamstown, **Route 209** leads towards communities like Tower City and Tremont, but these towns generally offer limited specialized medical services. Therefore, for lung cancer patients, the primary focus remains on accessing the larger medical centers to the south. The drive times, while manageable, necessitate careful planning, especially for those experiencing fatigue or other side effects of treatment. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can also impact travel times and safety, underscoring the importance of reliable **transportation** options.

Public transit options within and around Williamstown are limited. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system, which serves the Harrisburg area, does not extend directly into Williamstown. The closest CAT routes are accessible in nearby towns like Lykens, requiring a drive to a designated bus stop. This significantly reduces the viability of public transit for many residents, particularly those with mobility limitations. Information regarding ADA accessibility on the bus routes would need to be confirmed, but the general lack of public **transportation** options poses a significant challenge to **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamstown area, but their reliability can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This presents a potential barrier to **healthcare access**, as patients may struggle to secure a ride for appointments, especially those scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, adding a financial burden to the already challenging experience of battling lung cancer.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to other **transportation** options. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including Life Lion Medical Transport, and others. These services typically provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services, and the associated costs, should be carefully investigated. Insurance coverage for medical transport varies, so patients need to confirm their coverage and understand any out-of-pocket expenses.

For individuals **moving to Williamstown** and considering their **healthcare access** needs, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proximity to major medical centers, the reliability of **transportation** services, and the potential financial implications of accessing care. While the drive times to Harrisburg and Hershey are reasonable, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create potential challenges.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the availability of support services within Williamstown. Local support groups, counseling services, and palliative care options can play a vital role in supporting patients and their families. The proximity of these services, and their accessibility, can significantly impact the quality of life for those undergoing lung cancer treatment. It is crucial to research and understand the local resources available to patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be continuously updated as **transportation** options and healthcare services evolve. For those battling lung cancer in Williamstown, a proactive approach to planning and securing **transportation** is essential. This includes exploring all available options, from driving and ride-sharing to medical transport services. Careful planning, coupled with the support of family, friends, and healthcare providers, can help patients navigate the challenges of accessing care and improve their overall well-being.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of advocacy. Community members can advocate for improved public transit options, increased access to ride-sharing services, and greater support for medical transport initiatives. By working together, the community can improve **healthcare access** for all residents, including those facing the challenges of lung cancer. The goal is to create a more supportive and accessible environment for those seeking treatment and improving their quality of life.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Williamstown, PA (ZIP Code 17098) reveals a landscape where **transportation** planning is critical for effective **healthcare access**. While the drive times to major medical centers are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration. Those **moving to Williamstown** or seeking care in the area should proactively research all available options, secure reliable **transportation** arrangements, and connect with local support services to ensure they receive the best possible care.