17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.37 percent of residents in 17013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 1.36 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carlisle, PA (ZIP Code 17013)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis can feel isolating, a reality compounded by the complexities of navigating healthcare. For residents of Carlisle, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17013), understanding the accessibility of vital medical resources, particularly those specializing in prostate health, is paramount. This write-up offers a 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on the ease of transportation to relevant healthcare facilities, a crucial factor in patient outcomes and overall well-being. We'll explore the landscape of transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, and how they impact healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Carlisle.

The cornerstone of our analysis is **transportation**, the essential bridge connecting patients to their doctors. In the context of prostate cancer, timely access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities is critical. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' will evaluate this accessibility, considering the available transportation options and their respective challenges. This assessment is designed to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health.

Carlisle, a borough in Cumberland County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the town boasts a charming, historic downtown and a relatively low cost of living, its healthcare infrastructure is concentrated, necessitating travel for specialized care. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' will illuminate the practical realities of this situation.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation. Carlisle's location offers relatively easy access to major roadways, yet distance to specialized care facilities can still be a factor.

The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves traversing the **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south artery. Driving to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility for cancer care, from central Carlisle can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Accessing I-81 from Carlisle is generally straightforward, via exits like 226 (Harrisburg Pike) and 222 (Walnut Bottom Road).

Alternatively, the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)** provides another option, though it requires a toll. Travel time to Hershey via the Turnpike might be slightly shorter, but the toll cost and potential congestion at the Carlisle exit (Exit 226) should be considered.

Within Carlisle, local roads like **High Street, Hanover Street, and North and South College Streets** are critical for navigating the borough. Travel times within Carlisle are generally short, but traffic during peak hours can impact commute times to local healthcare providers.

For those seeking care closer to home, UPMC Carlisle, located on the outskirts of town, offers a range of services, including urology. Driving time to UPMC Carlisle from most parts of the borough is typically under 15 minutes.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation in Carlisle, while available, presents limitations for healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility challenges. The **CAT (Capital Area Transit)** system provides bus service within Cumberland County, including routes that serve Carlisle.

Several CAT routes, such as the **Route 100 (Carlisle/Harrisburg)** and **Route 101 (Carlisle/Mechanicsburg)**, connect Carlisle to surrounding areas, including Harrisburg, where more specialized medical facilities are located. However, these routes often involve multiple transfers and longer travel times compared to driving.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. CAT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially on weekends and evenings, can pose challenges for patients needing frequent appointments or treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Carlisle, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas outside the immediate downtown core. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services provide specialized transport for patients with mobility limitations. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may be covered by insurance, depending on the policy.

**Healthcare Access and the 'Prostate Cancer Score':**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Carlisle (ZIP code 17013) will consider the following factors:

* **Drive times:** The average travel time to key healthcare facilities, including UPMC Carlisle, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and any specialized urology practices in the area.
* **Public transit accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of CAT bus routes serving healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-share and medical transport availability:** The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to local urology providers:** The number and accessibility of urology practices within Carlisle and surrounding areas.

Based on these factors, the 'Prostate Cancer Score' will provide an overall assessment of healthcare access, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This score will be presented as a numerical value, with a higher score indicating better access.

**Moving to Carlisle and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Carlisle, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. The 'Prostate Cancer Score' provides a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of prostate cancer care. While Carlisle offers a pleasant living environment and a relatively affordable cost of living, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of specialized medical services.

Those with existing health conditions, or those with a family history of prostate cancer, should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation options. Researching local urology practices, understanding insurance coverage, and exploring the availability of medical transportation services are all essential steps.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Carlisle (ZIP code 17013) is more than just a number; it's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in this community. While Carlisle offers various transportation options, the distance to specialized care facilities and the limitations of public transit must be acknowledged. By understanding these factors, residents and prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to the vital care they deserve. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively directly impacts **healthcare access** and is a key consideration for anyone **moving to Carlisle**. The goal is to empower individuals to proactively manage their health and make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.