17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17361, Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.04 percent of residents in 17361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 12.79 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361)

The specter of lung cancer, a formidable adversary, casts a long shadow. Early detection and effective treatment are paramount, demanding timely and reliable access to healthcare. This analysis, tailored for residents of Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17361), explores the landscape of transportation options crucial for navigating the healthcare system, ultimately informing a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services. This assessment is especially relevant for those considering moving to Shrewsbury, offering a glimpse into the practical realities of healthcare access within the community.

Shrewsbury, a charming borough nestled in York County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. This duality, however, presents unique challenges when it comes to transportation and, consequently, healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. This information is vital for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, as well as for those seeking to understand the healthcare infrastructure before relocating.

The primary artery connecting Shrewsbury to the broader region is Interstate 83 (I-83). This major highway provides relatively swift access to York, approximately 15 miles north, and Baltimore, roughly 50 miles south. For those requiring specialized cancer care, the drive to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, a renowned institution, could take approximately an hour, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing WellSpan York Hospital, a comprehensive healthcare provider, would involve a 20-30 minute drive via I-83 and Pennsylvania Route 30 (PA-30).

Secondary roads, such as PA-851 and PA-616, offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and more prone to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. These roads, while offering scenic routes, are not ideal for urgent medical needs. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership and maintenance for residents of Shrewsbury, impacting the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

Public transportation options in Shrewsbury are limited. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but the routes serving Shrewsbury are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to York. Route 12, for example, offers limited service, and the schedules may not align with medical appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, but the infrequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." For those reliant on public transit, healthcare access becomes a logistical challenge, potentially necessitating significant pre-planning and extended travel times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Shrewsbury, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those undergoing treatment. This financial strain further influences the "Lung Cancer Score," emphasizing the need for affordable and dependable transportation alternatives.

Medical transportation services, like the specialized ambulances or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers operate in the area, offering transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require prior arrangements and can be expensive, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The availability and cost of these services are essential considerations in determining the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361) reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to major highways like I-83 offers relatively quick access to major medical centers, the limited public transportation options, the variable reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of specialized medical transport present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and maintenance.

For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape efficiently is critical. Delays in accessing treatment can have serious consequences. Therefore, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury highlights the need for careful planning and proactive resource utilization. It is crucial for residents to understand the available transportation options, the associated costs, and the potential challenges.

Considering the factors outlined, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361) is moderately favorable. The relatively easy access to major highways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some advantages. However, the limited public transportation, the potential for high costs, and the reliance on personal vehicles contribute to a less-than-ideal score.

For those considering moving to Shrewsbury, this analysis underscores the importance of assessing their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access and the overall quality of life in this charming borough. The ability to secure reliable and affordable transportation is paramount for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, and this assessment provides a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities within Shrewsbury's healthcare landscape.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to reach them. This assessment provides a framework for understanding the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access in Shrewsbury, PA (ZIP Code 17361).