17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.43 percent of residents in 17255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 17.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shade Gap (ZIP Code 17255)

The air hangs crisp and clean in Shade Gap, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17255), a rural haven nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains. Its tranquility, however, can mask a significant challenge: access to quality healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examining the intricacies of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access** for residents of Shade Gap, considering the realities of a potential lung cancer journey. This is especially relevant for anyone **moving to Shade Gap**, needing to understand the practicalities of medical care.

The score is not a numerical value but a narrative exploration, painting a picture of the logistical hurdles and potential solutions. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, ultimately offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for navigating the healthcare landscape.

The most significant factor influencing healthcare access in Shade Gap is its remoteness. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Chambersburg, approximately 40 miles east, and Altoona, roughly 70 miles west. This translates into considerable travel times, placing a strain on patients, especially those undergoing treatment for lung cancer, which often involves frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Driving from Shade Gap to Chambersburg involves navigating a combination of rural roads and highways. The most direct route typically utilizes Pennsylvania Route 75, a winding two-lane road that meanders through the valleys. This road can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter, and the lack of passing lanes can make for slower travel times. Upon reaching the outskirts of Chambersburg, the route merges onto Interstate 81, a major north-south artery, offering a faster connection to the Chambersburg Hospital and other medical facilities. Expect a drive time of approximately one hour to Chambersburg, assuming normal traffic and weather conditions.

The journey to Altoona presents a longer and more complex challenge. The initial segment involves traversing Pennsylvania Route 75 north, then connecting to US Route 22, a major east-west highway. This route offers a faster pace but can experience heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive time to Altoona, home to UPMC Altoona, a regional medical center, can easily exceed one hour and thirty minutes. The undulating terrain and potential for inclement weather further complicate travel.

Public **transportation** options in Shade Gap are severely limited. The area is not served by any significant bus routes or rail lines. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or have limited financial resources. The absence of reliable public **transportation** necessitates reliance on alternative means, which can be less convenient and more costly.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Chambersburg and Altoona areas, but their presence in Shade Gap is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive, especially for frequent medical appointments. The expense of these services can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to the already challenging circumstances of a lung cancer diagnosis.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with travel to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services typically involve the use of specially equipped vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, the availability of NEMT services in Shade Gap may be limited, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and level of care required. Some insurance plans cover NEMT services, but it is essential to verify coverage and eligibility requirements.

For individuals with more critical needs, such as those requiring ambulance services, the response time from emergency medical services (EMS) is a crucial consideration. The rural nature of Shade Gap can impact EMS response times, as ambulances may need to travel considerable distances to reach the patient. This delay can be a significant concern in emergency situations. The nearest hospitals with emergency departments are located in Chambersburg and Altoona, adding to the time it takes to receive critical care.

For those **moving to Shade Gap** with a lung cancer diagnosis or a predisposition to the disease, careful consideration of these **transportation** challenges is paramount. Before relocating, prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of medical facilities, the reliability of **transportation** options, and the potential costs associated with accessing healthcare. Establishing a support network, including family, friends, or community organizations, can also be invaluable in navigating the complexities of healthcare access.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Shade Gap presents a significant challenge, but it is not insurmountable. Proactive planning, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improved **transportation** options can help mitigate the obstacles and ensure that residents receive the timely and appropriate care they need. The journey through lung cancer is already arduous; the added burden of **transportation** should not further complicate the process.