17264, Three Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17264, Three Springs, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.81 percent of residents in 17264 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 16.40 miles from the area.

The crisp air of south-central Pennsylvania, specifically the ZIP Code 17264 encompassing the charming community of Three Springs, holds a certain allure. The promise of a slower pace, rolling hills, and a close-knit community often draws individuals seeking respite from the frenetic energy of urban life. However, when considering a move, especially for those with existing health concerns or a family history of lung cancer, understanding the practicalities of healthcare access becomes paramount. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding 17264, focusing on the journey to potential treatment centers, a critical aspect of quality of life and survival rates.

The primary concern for residents of Three Springs, when battling lung cancer, is the drive time to specialized medical facilities. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers, equipped with oncologists, radiation therapy, and surgical capabilities, are located in larger towns and cities. A significant factor is the efficiency of the transportation network. The primary artery serving 17264 is the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), offering a relatively direct route east toward Harrisburg or west toward Pittsburgh. However, the Turnpike is a toll road, adding to the financial burden of frequent trips.

For those seeking care in Harrisburg, a journey of approximately 80 miles, the drive time can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. Under ideal circumstances, the trip via the Turnpike and then onto I-83 could take around one hour and 30 minutes. However, rush hour congestion, especially near Harrisburg, can easily extend this commute to two hours or more. Furthermore, the Turnpike can experience delays due to accidents or construction, making reliable scheduling difficult. A similar situation exists for Pittsburgh, a drive of roughly 150 miles. The journey, primarily via the Turnpike, might take around two hours and 45 minutes in favorable conditions, but again, this is subject to traffic, weather, and road closures.

Beyond the Turnpike, secondary roads like Route 75 and Route 309 offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and more prone to delays due to traffic lights and slower speed limits. Route 75, for instance, provides a more direct, albeit winding, path to the south, connecting to I-76. Route 309 heads north, offering a possible route to the Allentown area. These routes, while potentially useful during Turnpike closures, are not ideal for regular trips due to their longer travel times.

Public transportation options in and around 17264 are severely limited. The area lacks a robust public transit system, making reliance on personal vehicles almost inevitable. There are no established bus routes that directly serve Three Springs or connect it to major medical centers. This absence of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, are elderly, or have mobility limitations. The lack of public transportation exacerbates the challenges faced by those undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that make driving difficult or impossible.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. While these services can provide a convenient option, particularly for shorter trips, their availability in Three Springs and the surrounding rural areas is not guaranteed. Surge pricing, especially during peak hours or in times of high demand, can make these services prohibitively expensive for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the lack of readily available drivers can lead to delays and missed appointments, which can have serious consequences for cancer patients.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like Medical Transportation Services, Inc. and Access Medical Transportation provide door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services offer a more reliable option for those who cannot drive or require assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, particularly for long-distance trips. The cost of medical transportation can quickly become a significant financial burden, adding to the already considerable expenses associated with cancer treatment.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any public transportation are non-existent. The absence of accessible public transit further isolates individuals with disabilities, making it difficult for them to access healthcare.

Considering all these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 17264 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to specialized medical centers, the limited public transportation options, and the potential cost and availability issues of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation for individuals battling lung cancer. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can significantly impact the quality of life and survival rates of lung cancer patients.

For those contemplating a move to Three Springs, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs and financial resources is essential. They must consider the potential costs of frequent trips to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the potential impact of these factors on their overall well-being. While the charm of Three Springs is undeniable, the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those with lung cancer, must be carefully considered before making a move. The peace and tranquility of rural living should be weighed against the practicalities of navigating a healthcare system that is, in many ways, dependent on the automobile. The decision to relocate must be an informed one, taking into account all the complexities of transportation and healthcare access.