17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.39 percent of residents in 17306 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 11.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17306

The air in Bendersville, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17306, is crisp, scented with apple blossoms in spring and the earthy promise of harvest in the fall. But beneath this idyllic veneer lies a crucial concern: healthcare access, particularly for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around 17306, assessing its impact on a patient's ability to reach vital medical care, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare system.

The journey to treatment for lung cancer often involves frequent appointments: diagnostic scans, consultations with oncologists and pulmonologists, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and post-treatment follow-ups. The ability to reliably and efficiently access these services is paramount. For residents of 17306, the primary hubs of specialized medical care are located in Gettysburg, approximately 10 miles away, and York, roughly 30 miles distant.

The most common mode of transportation is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Driving from Bendersville to Gettysburg typically involves a straightforward route along **US-30 East** or **PA-94 South**, offering a drive-time of around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The Gettysburg Hospital, a crucial healthcare resource, is readily accessible. Traveling to York, however, presents a more significant time commitment. The most direct route utilizes **US-30 East**, eventually merging onto **I-83 South**, a journey that can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, contingent on traffic conditions, especially during peak commuting hours.

Public transportation options are limited in 17306. The rabbittransit, the primary public transit provider for Adams County, offers very few routes that directly serve Bendersville. The closest bus stop to Bendersville is located in Gettysburg. The **Route 15** service provides limited service to Gettysburg. This route does not operate on weekends or holidays. The accessibility of these public transit options for individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern for lung cancer patients, is important. While rabbittransit strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, the limited frequency and route coverage present a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate, particularly in rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled appointments, especially early morning or late evening treatments, is a critical factor. Patients may encounter difficulties securing a ride, leading to delays or missed appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer another avenue for transportation. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare operate in Pennsylvania, often providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require prior authorization and may be covered by insurance, offering a valuable resource for patients who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the coordination and scheduling of these services can sometimes be complex, and the availability of vehicles may be limited, potentially impacting appointment adherence.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 17306, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Gettysburg provides relatively easy access to healthcare, the longer distance to York, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the potential uncertainties of ride-sharing, poses challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, while common, may be problematic for patients experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or other treatment-related side effects. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net, but the complexities of accessing these services must be considered.

The healthcare access landscape also impacts the attractiveness of 17306 for prospective residents. Individuals considering moving to Bendersville, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer, must carefully weigh the transportation considerations. The availability of reliable transportation is a significant factor in quality of life and the ability to receive timely and effective medical care.

Furthermore, the economic implications of transportation challenges are significant. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing services can place a financial burden on patients and their families. Missed appointments due to transportation difficulties can lead to delays in treatment, potentially impacting patient outcomes and increasing healthcare costs in the long run.

The development of strategies to improve healthcare access in 17306 is essential. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, and ensuring that medical transport services are readily available and easily accessible. Furthermore, promoting telehealth initiatives, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 17306 reflects the complex interplay of geographic factors, transportation infrastructure, and the availability of healthcare resources. While the area benefits from its proximity to Gettysburg, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for lung cancer patients. Addressing these challenges through innovative transportation solutions, expanded access to medical transport services, and the promotion of telehealth initiatives is crucial to ensuring that residents of 17306 have equitable access to the life-saving care they need. The journey through lung cancer treatment is arduous enough; ensuring accessible transportation is a fundamental step in supporting patients and improving their chances of survival and well-being.