17263, State Line, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17263, State Line, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.02 percent of residents in 17263 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 8.20 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17263

The crisp air of State Line, Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the heart of Franklin County, offers a picturesque setting. However, the beauty of this locale, ZIP Code 17263, is interwoven with the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examining the critical element of transportation, a vital component of healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to paint a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to State Line.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a formal medical tool. It serves as an illustrative guide, highlighting the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals requiring lung cancer treatment in 17263. It considers the frequency of appointments, the need for specialized care, and the potential impact of transportation limitations on a patient's overall well-being. The score is based on a subjective evaluation of the available transportation options, weighing their accessibility, reliability, and cost.

For residents of 17263, the most immediate healthcare options are located in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, approximately 15 to 20 miles away. The primary route to Chambersburg involves traveling east on **US Route 30**, a major thoroughfare. The drive time is generally manageable, but traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly around the Chambersburg area, can add significant delays. This is a crucial consideration for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, where punctuality is paramount.

Further, specialized lung cancer care, including surgical interventions and advanced treatments, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. The closest of these is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, roughly 75 miles east. This journey requires navigating **Interstate 81** and **US Route 322**, which can take between one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge for patients, especially those experiencing fatigue or other debilitating symptoms.

Another option, the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, is approximately 90 miles southeast. This journey involves traveling on **Interstate 81** and **Interstate 70**. The drive time is comparable to the Hershey Medical Center, but the route can be subject to heavy traffic, particularly near Baltimore.

Public transportation options in 17263 are limited. The **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)** provides bus services within the county. However, the routes serving State Line are infrequent, and the service areas are limited. The FCTA does not have any direct routes to the major healthcare facilities in Chambersburg or beyond. ADA accessibility is a feature on all FCTA buses, a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. Public transit, therefore, is not a reliable option for most lung cancer patients in this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 17263 ZIP Code. 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 burden for patients, especially those with frequent appointments. The reliability of these services is also a concern. Patients need to be assured of a timely and dependable ride to and from their appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **CareRide** provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services can transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of NEMT services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17263, based on the transportation analysis, is moderately challenging. The primary challenges are the reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare access, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited availability of public transportation and ride-sharing options. The distance to specialized care centers further exacerbates these challenges.

The score reflects the need for patients to have reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, family support, or the use of medical transportation services. It highlights the importance of planning and preparation, especially for those undergoing treatment. The score also underscores the need for improved public transportation options and increased availability of ride-sharing services to enhance healthcare access for residents of State Line.

For individuals considering moving to State Line, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical factor in their decision-making process. The availability of healthcare access is a significant determinant of quality of life, and transportation is a key component of that access. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive measure of healthcare quality. It focuses solely on the transportation aspect, which is just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors, such as the availability of medical specialists, the quality of care at local facilities, and the support services available to patients, are also crucial considerations.

The score also does not account for the emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis. The stress of navigating transportation challenges can exacerbate the emotional burden of the disease. Support systems, including family, friends, and support groups, are essential for helping patients cope with these challenges.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 17263 underscores the importance of transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access. While the area offers a beautiful setting, the limited transportation options present challenges for lung cancer patients. Residents and those considering moving to State Line should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure timely and reliable access to the care they require. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of community support, the need for improved transportation infrastructure, and the ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access for all residents.