17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17249, Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.85 percent of residents in 17249 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Huntingdon with a distance of 18.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockhill Furnace (ZIP Code 17249)

The quaint, rural community of Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17249), offers a tranquil lifestyle, but assessing its healthcare access, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This 'Lung Cancer Score' delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for residents and those considering moving to Rockhill Furnace. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The primary concern for a lung cancer patient is timely access to specialized care. This often involves oncology consultations, diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, and potentially surgery. The ability to reach these services promptly and reliably is paramount, significantly impacting treatment outcomes and quality of life. Therefore, the 'Lung Cancer Score' prioritizes these factors when evaluating transportation options.

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

Rockhill Furnace's geographical isolation presents a significant challenge. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, requiring travel along specific roadways. The primary artery for accessing healthcare is **Route 75**, a two-lane highway that connects Rockhill Furnace to larger population centers. Driving south on Route 75 leads to McConnellsburg, approximately a 20-minute drive, where limited primary care services are available.

Further travel south on Route 75, connecting with **Interstate 70**, opens up access to Chambersburg (approximately 45 minutes) and Hagerstown, Maryland (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes). Chambersburg hosts a regional hospital, offering some cancer care services, while Hagerstown has a more extensive network of specialists. These drive times are estimates under ideal conditions; traffic, weather, and road construction can significantly extend travel times, especially during peak hours.

Heading north from Rockhill Furnace on Route 75 leads to **Route 522**, which connects to Huntingdon (approximately 45 minutes). Huntingdon boasts a hospital, but its cancer care services are less comprehensive than those found in Chambersburg or Hagerstown. The winding nature of these roads and the potential for adverse weather conditions, especially during winter months, can add considerable stress and risk for patients undergoing treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Rockhill Furnace are severely limited. The area is not served by a robust public transit system. The absence of regular bus routes presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive due to their illness, or have limited mobility. This deficiency impacts healthcare access, particularly for those facing financial constraints or mobility challenges.

While there might be some demand-response transit services, these options are usually on a reservation basis and may not be suitable for urgent appointments or frequent treatments like radiation therapy. The lack of ADA-accessible features on any available public transit options would further restrict access for individuals with disabilities. The absence of readily available public transit is a major factor negatively affecting the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Rockhill Furnace is sporadic. Availability is often limited, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments is unreliable and potentially costly. The cost of these services can quickly accumulate, placing a financial burden on patients and their families.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with travel. Companies like **CareRide**, **LogistiCare**, and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as insurance coverage or medical necessity documentation. While these services can be a lifeline for some patients, they may not always be readily available or affordable.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Rockhill Furnace reflects the complex interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and patient needs. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare services is a major vulnerability. The lack of public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

The geographical distance to comprehensive cancer centers and the potential for extended travel times add further challenges. The financial burden of transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can be substantial. The physical and emotional toll of travel, particularly for patients undergoing treatment, can also negatively impact their well-being.

**Moving to Rockhill Furnace: Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Rockhill Furnace, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious illnesses, should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and the proximity of specialized medical care.

It is essential to research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and the costs associated with these services. Understanding insurance coverage for transportation and exploring potential financial assistance programs are also critical.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Patient Needs**

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Rockhill Furnace highlights the need for improved healthcare access. Addressing the transportation challenges is paramount. This could involve exploring options for expanding public transit, partnering with ride-sharing companies to ensure greater availability, and promoting the availability of medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare environment that supports patients' needs, ensuring timely access to quality care, regardless of their location. Improving transportation infrastructure and services would enhance the 'Lung Cancer Score' and make Rockhill Furnace a more accessible and supportive community for individuals facing this challenging disease. The commitment to improving transportation options and healthcare access is a crucial step in supporting the health and well-being of residents in Rockhill Furnace and those considering making it their home.