17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.65 percent of residents in 17033 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17033**

ZIP Code 17033, encompassing Hershey, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its sweetness, but its residents also require access to essential healthcare, including specialized services like prostate cancer treatment. This analysis explores the transportation landscape, assessing the ease of accessing these vital services, ultimately contributing to a "Prostate Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility of care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those residing in this charming community.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Hershey is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a nationally recognized facility offering comprehensive cancer care. Assessing transportation options to this critical institution is paramount in determining the Prostate Cancer Score. The most common mode of transportation is by car, with several major roadways facilitating travel.

For those living in central Hershey, the drive to the Medical Center is generally swift. Accessing the Medical Center from the center of town is typically a short drive, taking approximately 5 to 10 minutes via **Hershey Park Drive** and **University Drive**. Traffic is usually manageable, even during peak hours, making this a convenient option for routine appointments and treatments.

Residents in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, particularly those residing further east or west, may experience slightly longer drive times. Traveling from the eastern edge of the ZIP code, perhaps near Elizabethtown Road, might involve a 15 to 20-minute drive, utilizing roads like **Elizabethtown Road** and **Hershey Road** to reach the Medical Center. Similarly, those in the western reaches might take a similar amount of time, navigating **Hershey Road** and **Governor Road**.

The presence of major highways further enhances accessibility. **Interstate 81**, located just north of Hershey, offers a rapid route for those coming from the north or south. While not directly traversing the ZIP code, it provides a crucial connection for patients traveling from surrounding areas. **US Route 322**, another significant thoroughfare, provides a direct east-west link, connecting Hershey to Harrisburg and other communities.

Public transportation options, while present, are less extensive in Hershey compared to larger metropolitan areas. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT), offering bus services throughout the region. However, the frequency and coverage within Hershey itself are limited.

Several CAT bus routes serve Hershey, but their routes and schedules may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. Route 32, for instance, travels through Hershey, providing a connection to Harrisburg. However, the frequency of this route might necessitate careful planning and potentially longer travel times. Route 104 provides service to Hershey Medical Center.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. CAT buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility impairments. However, the overall convenience of public transit for prostate cancer patients, who may experience fatigue or mobility limitations, is a factor that lowers the Prostate Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hershey area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The availability of ride-sharing is a positive factor, especially for patients who need transportation to and from appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are also available. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including brands like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services are invaluable for patients who require specialized assistance, but their availability and cost must be factored into the overall accessibility assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Hershey, the transportation infrastructure plays a vital role in healthcare access. The relatively short drive times to the Hershey Medical Center are a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services should be carefully considered.

The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 17033 is influenced by several factors. The short drive times to the Hershey Medical Center, the presence of major highways, and the availability of ride-sharing services contribute positively to the score. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of alternative transportation methods detract from the score.

In conclusion, while Hershey offers relatively good healthcare access due to its proximity to the Hershey Medical Center and the availability of various transportation options, the score is somewhat diminished by the limitations of public transit and the potential financial burden of alternative transportation. The overall Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 17033 reflects a moderate level of accessibility, with opportunities for improvement in public transit and affordability of transportation services. For those moving to Hershey, careful consideration of these factors is essential for ensuring access to quality prostate cancer care.