17250, Rouzerville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17250, Rouzerville, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.00 percent of residents in 17250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 2.60 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rouzerville, PA (ZIP Code 17250)

The air in Rouzerville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17250), whispers of history, a quiet charm clinging to the foothills of South Mountain. But beneath this tranquil surface lies a critical need: ensuring accessible healthcare, particularly for those facing the daunting prospect of a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to healthcare facilities for residents, a crucial factor in their ability to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of **healthcare access** in this community.

The primary concern for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis is swift access to specialized medical care. Rouzerville's location, while picturesque, presents challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns, requiring careful consideration of **transportation** logistics. For those with a personal vehicle, the most direct route to Chambersburg Hospital, a regional healthcare provider, involves a drive of approximately 20 minutes, primarily via US Route 30. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility, requires a drive of roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily utilizing Interstate 81. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for patients undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects. The availability of parking at these facilities and the associated costs also factor into the overall **healthcare access** picture. The ability to navigate these routes independently, considering the potential for physical limitations associated with lung cancer, is a vital consideration.

Public transit options within Rouzerville and surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider is the Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA). However, FCTA services, while available, are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments. Routes are infrequent, and the coverage area may not extend directly to all necessary medical facilities. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on FCTA buses, which is crucial for patients with mobility limitations.

The FCTA does offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking. This option, while potentially helpful, necessitates careful scheduling and can be less reliable than fixed-route services. Patients relying on public transit must factor in extended travel times and the potential for delays, which can be particularly stressful for those undergoing cancer treatment. The lack of convenient public transit highlights the need for alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rouzerville area. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for patients, especially those with limited financial resources. The reliability of these services for scheduled medical appointments is a crucial consideration.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and MedStar provide non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. However, they offer a higher level of reliability and support, making them a valuable option for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their journey.

Considering the challenges, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Rouzerville reflects the realities of **healthcare access**. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services. The reliance on personal vehicles or more expensive medical transport services places a burden on patients and their families.

The score is positively influenced by the relatively short drive to Chambersburg Hospital, providing a more immediate option for certain medical needs. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for patients who require specialized assistance. However, the longer drive to the Hershey Medical Center, a key resource for comprehensive cancer care, highlights the need for improved **transportation** solutions.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Rouzerville suggests a need for improvement in **transportation** infrastructure and services. This is particularly important for those considering **moving to Rouzerville** and those already residing in the area. Enhancements to public transit, potentially including dedicated routes to medical facilities, would significantly improve **healthcare access**. Partnerships between local organizations and ride-sharing companies could provide subsidized transportation for patients.

Furthermore, exploring the expansion of medical transport services and increasing awareness of their availability is crucial. The implementation of these measures would significantly improve the quality of life for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis and enhance the overall health of the Rouzerville community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just a numerical assessment; it's a call to action. It underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment that prioritizes **healthcare access** for all residents. The ability to navigate the complexities of cancer treatment should not be compounded by **transportation** barriers. By addressing these challenges, Rouzerville can foster a community that values the health and well-being of every individual.