17349, New Freedom, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17349, New Freedom, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 17349 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 14.10 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Freedom, PA (ZIP Code 17349)

Considering a move to New Freedom, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17349)? This charming borough in York County offers a blend of small-town tranquility and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas. However, when evaluating a new location, especially with potential health concerns like lung cancer, understanding **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, specifically focusing on **transportation** options to healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, within and surrounding New Freedom.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment but rather a guide to understanding the practicalities of reaching essential medical services. Factors considered include drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The closer and more accessible the options, the higher the score. Let's delve into the specifics for ZIP code 17349.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

New Freedom's location offers relatively easy access to several healthcare facilities. The primary artery connecting New Freedom to the broader region is Interstate 83 (I-83). This major north-south highway provides a direct route to York, Harrisburg, and even Baltimore, Maryland.

For lung cancer care, the proximity to WellSpan York Hospital is a significant advantage. A drive via I-83 South typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a relatively short commute, making it a strong point for New Freedom's Lung Cancer Score.

Another option is UPMC Memorial Hospital in York. While slightly further south on I-83, the drive remains manageable, usually taking around 30-35 minutes. These hospitals offer comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

For more specialized care, particularly advanced treatment options or clinical trials, residents might need to travel further. Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, is a renowned cancer center. The drive, primarily on I-83 South, can take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, factoring in potential traffic congestion around Baltimore. This longer commute slightly lowers the score, but the availability of such specialized care is still a positive factor.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public **transportation** options in New Freedom are limited. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to York City. There is no direct public transit route to WellSpan York Hospital or UPMC Memorial Hospital.

The YCTA Route 83, which runs between York and Shrewsbury, offers a potential connection point, but the route does not directly serve New Freedom. Residents would need to arrange a ride to the route's stops, making this option less convenient for regular medical appointments.

Furthermore, the lack of frequent service and the need for transfers significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. The YCTA does offer ADA-compliant buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall limitations of public transit in this area present a challenge for those relying on this mode of **transportation**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the New Freedom area. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, the cost of frequent trips to medical appointments can be a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients are also available. These services, such as Senior Care Ride and other local providers, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door service and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The availability of these services is a positive factor, but the cost and potential need for advance booking should be considered. The reliability of these services is crucial, especially for cancer patients who require consistent and timely access to treatment.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Considerations for Moving to New Freedom:**

The Lung Cancer Score for New Freedom, PA (ZIP code 17349) is moderately favorable. The proximity to WellSpan York Hospital and UPMC Memorial Hospital via I-83 offers a significant advantage in terms of drive time. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services impact the overall score.

When considering **moving to New Freedom**, prospective residents, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs. Assess the frequency of medical appointments, the potential need for specialized care, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

The availability of medical **transportation** services is a crucial factor, as is the ability to drive or have a reliable driver. The ease of access to I-83 is a major plus, but the limitations of public transit should be considered.

Furthermore, it's important to research the specific lung cancer care services offered at the nearby hospitals. Inquire about the availability of specialists, the types of treatments offered, and the hospital's overall patient satisfaction ratings.

Ultimately, the decision to move to New Freedom should be made after a thorough assessment of individual healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities. This Lung Cancer Score assessment provides a framework for understanding the practicalities of accessing healthcare in this area, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their well-being.