17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.67 percent of residents in 17236 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 10.35 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mercersburg (ZIP Code 17236)

Considering a move to Mercersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17236)? This analysis provides a “Lung Cancer Score,” a composite metric reflecting healthcare access, specifically for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. This score considers transportation options to specialists and treatment centers, crucial factors impacting outcomes. The score isn't a definitive medical assessment, but rather a tool to understand the practical challenges of navigating healthcare in this specific location.

The foundation of our score hinges on the reality of healthcare access. Lung cancer treatment often demands frequent appointments: consultations, scans, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and post-treatment follow-ups. Therefore, the ease and efficiency of *transportation* become paramount. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. Each element is weighted based on its practical impact on a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent care.

**Drive Times: The Cornerstone of Access**

Mercersburg's location in Franklin County presents a mixed bag for those needing specialized lung cancer care. The primary artery for travel is Interstate 81 (I-81), a north-south highway offering relatively quick access to larger medical centers. However, the reliance on a single major highway introduces potential vulnerabilities, such as traffic congestion or inclement weather.

For residents of Mercersburg, reaching the nearest major healthcare providers necessitates a drive. Chambersburg Hospital, part of WellSpan Health, is the closest significant medical facility. The drive, primarily via US Route 30 East, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, providing a crucial local resource.

Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, presents a more comprehensive array of lung cancer specialists and advanced treatment options. The journey to Hershey, primarily via I-81 North, spans approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. This longer drive necessitates careful planning, especially considering potential side effects from treatment.

Another option is the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore, Maryland. This renowned center offers cutting-edge research and treatment. The drive, mostly on I-81 South and I-70 East, is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours. This extended travel time emphasizes the importance of reliable *transportation* and the potential need for overnight stays.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public *transportation* options in Mercersburg are limited, significantly impacting the Lung Cancer Score. Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on local travel. There are no direct routes to hospitals outside of Chambersburg. This scarcity of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The FCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited route network and infrequent schedules make public transit a less viable option for routine cancer care appointments. Relying on public transit for chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where appointments are often time-sensitive, could prove challenging.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mercersburg, offering a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to distant medical centers can also accumulate, creating a financial burden.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like AMR or MedStar, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal *transportation*. The availability of medical transport in Mercersburg should be confirmed, as it may be limited.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Mercersburg (ZIP code 17236) is calculated based on the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Weighted heavily based on the proximity of cancer care facilities and the reliability of travel routes (I-81, US-30).
* **Public Transit Availability:** Penalized significantly due to limited routes and infrequent schedules.
* **Ride-Sharing Accessibility:** Considered, but with limitations regarding availability and cost.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Assessed based on availability, cost, and accessibility.

The score isn’t a static number, but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the realities of *healthcare access* in Mercersburg, highlighting the challenges and providing a framework for informed decision-making.

**Implications for Moving to Mercersburg**

For individuals considering *moving to Mercersburg* with a history of lung cancer or at high risk, this analysis underscores the importance of careful planning. The Lung Cancer Score suggests that while local care is available, access to specialized treatments may require significant travel.

* **Consider the need for reliable personal *transportation*:** A personal vehicle is almost essential for navigating healthcare appointments.
* **Assess the financial implications:** Factor in the costs of fuel, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Explore local support networks:** Identify potential sources of assistance, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can provide *transportation* support.
* **Research insurance coverage:** Ensure your health insurance plan covers the costs of *transportation* to and from medical appointments.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss your *transportation* needs with your oncologist or primary care physician. They may be able to offer advice or connect you with resources.

**Conclusion**

Mercersburg offers a peaceful setting, but the Lung Cancer Score reveals potential challenges in accessing specialized healthcare. While local resources exist, the reliance on personal *transportation* and the limitations of public transit necessitate proactive planning. By understanding these challenges, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive timely and appropriate care. The ability to navigate the *transportation* landscape is paramount to successful lung cancer treatment, and this analysis serves as a starting point for that journey.