17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.76 percent of residents in 17019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center with a distance of 11.40 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dillsburg (ZIP Code 17019)

The specter of prostate cancer casts a long shadow, and timely diagnosis and treatment are paramount. For residents of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17019), the journey to healthcare is a critical factor in managing this disease. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," evaluating **healthcare access** based on **transportation** options, drive times, and available resources. It's designed to help individuals, especially those **moving to Dillsburg**, understand the practicalities of accessing potentially life-saving care.

Dillsburg, a charming borough nestled in York County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, this balance necessitates careful consideration of how one navigates the healthcare landscape. The "Prostate Cancer Score" weighs the ease of reaching urologists, oncologists, and treatment centers, factoring in the realities of **transportation** in the area.

The cornerstone of this assessment is drive time. The primary artery connecting Dillsburg to larger medical hubs is the US-15. Heading south on US-15, the journey to Harrisburg, the state capital, offers a range of medical facilities. UPMC Harrisburg, for instance, is approximately a 30-minute drive, assuming normal traffic conditions. This drive is generally straightforward, but traffic can become congested during peak hours, particularly around the I-83 interchange.

Traveling north on US-15 presents different options. Gettysburg Hospital, though smaller, is closer, typically a 20-minute drive. This proximity is a significant advantage for routine check-ups and preliminary consultations. However, for specialized treatments like radiation therapy or complex surgeries, the larger facilities in Harrisburg or Hershey might be preferred.

Another crucial route is PA-74, which provides access to York. York Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is about a 35-40 minute drive. This route often involves navigating local roads, which can be slower than the highway options. The condition of the roads and the volume of traffic on PA-74 can significantly impact travel times.

Beyond the major highways, local roads like York Road, Baltimore Pike, and Church Street offer alternative routes. These are generally slower, but can be helpful in avoiding traffic bottlenecks on US-15 or PA-74. Knowing these options can be beneficial for those seeking to optimize their travel time.

Public **transportation** options in Dillsburg are limited. The Rabbit Transit, the regional public transit authority, provides some service, but its routes are primarily focused on connecting the borough to larger towns and cities. Direct routes to major medical facilities are not readily available. This scarcity of public **transportation** underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** services.

The Rabbit Transit does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the available routes. However, the infrequent service and limited routes make it a less viable option for regular medical appointments, especially for those undergoing cancer treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Dillsburg area. However, their availability and cost can fluctuate. In a rural area, the response times of these services might be longer than in urban centers. The cost of frequent rides to medical appointments can also become a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. Companies like MedRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services offer door-to-door service, which can be a significant advantage for those with mobility issues. However, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing services.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" also considers the availability of specialized care. The presence of urologists and oncologists within a reasonable driving distance is critical. The Harrisburg area, with its concentration of medical facilities, offers a wider selection of specialists. However, the travel time to these facilities must be factored into the overall score.

The score also assesses the availability of treatment options, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical services. The larger hospitals in Harrisburg and Hershey offer a comprehensive range of these services. The proximity to these facilities is a key determinant of the score.

The score further acknowledges the importance of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and patient navigators can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals undergoing prostate cancer treatment. The availability of these resources within the community or nearby is a factor in the overall assessment.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Factors such as changes in traffic patterns, the opening of new medical facilities, and the expansion of public **transportation** services can all impact the score.

For individuals **moving to Dillsburg**, understanding this score is crucial. It provides a realistic picture of the **healthcare access** challenges and opportunities. It allows them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to plan accordingly.

The score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Individuals should research the available medical facilities, identify specialists, and understand the **transportation** options. They should also consider the potential costs associated with **transportation** and treatment.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not intended to discourage individuals from **moving to Dillsburg**. Instead, it aims to empower them with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively. It highlights the importance of careful consideration of **transportation** needs and the proactive planning required to ensure timely access to potentially life-saving care. The score serves as a guide, encouraging residents to prioritize their health and well-being.