17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.86 percent of residents in 17109 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 3.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrisburg's 17109

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is a complex undertaking. It involves not only the emotional and physical challenges of the disease itself but also the practicalities of accessing treatment. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 17109 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Understanding these factors is crucial, whether you are a current resident or considering moving to Harrisburg.

The 17109 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, including sections of downtown Harrisburg and surrounding neighborhoods. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly influence a patient's ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive crucial follow-up care. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all vital components of the healthcare access equation.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The proximity of major roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. From 17109, accessing UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider, often involves navigating the city's traffic patterns. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, a drive to the hospital can range from a few minutes to upwards of 20 minutes during peak hours.

Primary routes include the **I-83 South**, the major north-south artery, and the **US-322 East**, providing access to the hospital from various points. **Front Street** and **Second Street**, running parallel to the Susquehanna River, offer alternative routes, though they are often congested during rush hour. **Market Street**, a central east-west thoroughfare, can also be utilized, but its traffic flow can be unpredictable. The condition of these roads, and the ever-present possibility of traffic delays, are significant factors to consider.

The drive to Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, located further north, is generally longer, potentially requiring 30 minutes or more depending on traffic. This journey often involves the **I-83 North** and **US-22 East**. Understanding these drive times is essential for planning appointments and managing the fatigue often associated with lung cancer treatment. The ease of access, or lack thereof, can significantly impact the patient's overall well-being.

**Public Transit: Wheels of Accessibility**

Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides public transportation within Harrisburg and the surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 17109 ZIP code, offering a potentially affordable alternative to driving. The **Route 1** and **Route 2** buses, for example, traverse key areas of the city and provide access to downtown medical facilities.

However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Many routes operate on a limited schedule, which can make it challenging to reach appointments on time or return home after treatment. ADA accessibility, including ramps and designated seating, is available on CAT buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service.

The reliability of public transit is also a consideration. Delays, caused by traffic or other unforeseen circumstances, can disrupt schedules and add to the stress of healthcare appointments. Patients relying on public transit need to factor in extra travel time to account for potential disruptions. The availability of real-time tracking information through the CAT website and app is a valuable tool for navigating the system.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient transportation option. They are readily available in Harrisburg and can provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on family and friends. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it can be a viable option for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to assist patients with healthcare needs, provide another layer of support. These services often offer specialized vehicles, such as wheelchair-accessible vans, and trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare are often contracted by insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation.

The availability of these services can be a crucial factor in healthcare access for individuals with lung cancer. They can alleviate the burden of travel, allowing patients to focus on their treatment and recovery. The ease of booking and the reliability of these services are essential considerations.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17109 is not a single number but a holistic assessment based on the interplay of these transportation factors. It acknowledges that the ideal scenario involves multiple options, allowing patients to choose the most suitable mode of transportation based on their individual needs and circumstances.

Factors that lower the score include long drive times, limited public transit options, and high costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport. Conversely, a higher score reflects convenient access to multiple transportation options, including reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing services, and affordable medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Harrisburg, understanding this score is essential. It allows for informed decision-making, ensuring that healthcare access is a priority. For current residents, the score highlights the importance of planning and utilizing available resources to navigate the challenges of transportation while undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and resources they need to access the care they deserve. By understanding the transportation landscape in 17109, residents can proactively address the challenges and ensure that the journey to healthcare is as smooth and stress-free as possible. The journey with lung cancer is difficult enough; the transportation aspect should not add to the burden.