17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.84 percent of residents in 17246 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17246

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious diagnosis like lung cancer, is a complex one. It's not merely about receiving treatment; it's about the accessibility of that treatment, the ease of reaching it, and the support systems available along the way. This analysis examines the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania, to assess its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" based on these factors, informing both current residents and those considering moving to Pleasant Hall.

Pleasant Hall, nestled in the heart of Franklin County, offers a tranquil, rural environment. However, its location presents unique transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are primarily located in Chambersburg, Harrisburg, and Carlisle, each requiring varying degrees of travel. This distance significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care become a major logistical hurdle.

For those who prefer to drive, the primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the region's highway network. Accessing Chambersburg Regional Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, often requires utilizing **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south artery. The drive, typically taking around 20 to 30 minutes, can be affected by traffic, especially during peak commuting hours. Other roads such as **U.S. Route 30** and **Pennsylvania Route 997** offer alternative routes, though they may involve more stop-and-go traffic and potentially add to the travel time.

Heading towards Harrisburg, home to larger hospitals and specialized cancer centers, necessitates a longer journey. This typically involves taking **I-81 North** for approximately an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The journey can be tiring for patients, especially those undergoing treatment. Carlisle, another option, is accessible via **I-81 North** and then **Pennsylvania Route 641**, with a drive time of around 45 minutes. The variability in travel times, coupled with potential for delays, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Public transportation options in 17246 are limited. The primary provider is the **Rabbit Transit**, offering bus services throughout Franklin County. However, the routes serving Pleasant Hall are infrequent and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for patients with mobility limitations. While Rabbit Transit strives to meet ADA standards, the limited route frequency and potential for long wait times present significant challenges for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

The absence of a robust public transportation system emphasizes the reliance on private transportation. This includes ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. While these services are available in the area, their availability and cost can be unpredictable, particularly in rural areas. The expense of frequent ride-share trips can be a significant burden for patients, especially those with limited financial resources. The reliability of ride-share services, particularly during inclement weather or off-peak hours, further impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, making them a valuable resource for patients with mobility issues. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. The reputation and reliability of these services are critical factors in assessing their impact on the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of support services, such as volunteer driver programs or community transportation initiatives, also plays a crucial role. These programs can help bridge the gap in transportation access, providing free or low-cost rides to medical appointments. The presence and effectiveness of these resources contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score, offering vital support to patients.

Considering the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for 17246 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the proximity to Chambersburg offers a relatively short drive, the longer distances to Harrisburg and Carlisle, coupled with limited public transportation and the potential expense of ride-sharing or medical transportation, pose significant challenges. The absence of a robust public transit system and the reliance on private transportation contribute to a lower score.

For individuals considering moving to Pleasant Hall, the transportation landscape should be a significant consideration, especially if they have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk. Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities or ensuring reliable access to transportation is crucial. Researching local support services, such as volunteer driver programs, can also help mitigate transportation challenges.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 17246 is influenced by the following: drive times to major cancer centers, frequency and accessibility of public transit, availability and cost of ride-share services, and the presence of medical transportation options and community support programs. The score reflects the reality of healthcare access in a rural environment, highlighting the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The score is not a definitive assessment of the quality of healthcare, but rather an evaluation of the ease with which patients can access the care they need.