17039, Kleinfeltersville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17039, Kleinfeltersville, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.34 percent of residents in 17039 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lebanon Va Medical Center with a distance of 8.37 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Kleinfeltersville (ZIP Code 17039)

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding swift and reliable access to specialized healthcare. For residents of Kleinfeltersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17039), a community nestled in the heart of Lancaster County, the ability to navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care hinges significantly on the available **transportation** options. This write-up assesses the **healthcare access** landscape, considering the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments, a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Kleinfeltersville** or already residing there.

Kleinfeltersville, a small, predominantly rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare accessibility. While the community itself may lack extensive medical facilities, its proximity to larger towns and cities provides access to a range of healthcare providers. The Prostate Cancer Score for Kleinfeltersville, therefore, reflects the ease with which residents can reach these essential services, factoring in the diverse **transportation** options available.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of **transportation** for residents of Kleinfeltersville is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The area is served primarily by rural roads, with access to major highways providing links to larger medical centers. The primary artery connecting Kleinfeltersville to the wider world is Pennsylvania Route 501, a north-south thoroughfare. Heading north on Route 501, residents can reach larger towns like Newmanstown and Myerstown, where some primary care and specialist offices are located.

For more comprehensive prostate cancer care, including specialized urology practices, radiation oncology centers, and surgical facilities, residents will likely need to travel further. Heading south on Route 501, travelers can connect to Pennsylvania Route 222, a major highway that provides access to Lancaster City. The drive to Lancaster City, where a significant concentration of healthcare providers exists, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another crucial route is Pennsylvania Route 897, which intersects with Route 501 near Kleinfeltersville. This road offers access to the east, connecting to towns like Denver and Ephrata. While these towns may have some healthcare options, they generally offer fewer specialized prostate cancer services compared to Lancaster City.

The drive times, however, are not always straightforward. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours on Route 222, can significantly extend travel times. Furthermore, inclement weather, common in Pennsylvania, can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to essential medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Kleinfeltersville and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary public transit provider for Lancaster County is Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA). However, RRTA's service area is primarily focused on Lancaster City and its immediate suburbs.

While RRTA does offer some routes that extend into the more rural areas, service is infrequent, and routes are often limited in scope. Residents of Kleinfeltersville may find it difficult to rely on public transit to reach medical appointments. The lack of frequent service, combined with potentially lengthy travel times, can pose a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

RRTA does strive to provide ADA-accessible buses on all routes. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they can utilize public **transportation** services. However, the limited availability of routes in Kleinfeltersville may still restrict access to medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

In recent years, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prevalent. These services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who are unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Kleinfeltersville may be limited, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM), provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While medical **transportation** can be a valuable resource, it often comes with a higher cost than other **transportation** options, and availability may be limited.

**Assessing the Score: Healthcare Access Challenges**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Kleinfeltersville reflects a mixed picture. While the community benefits from its proximity to Lancaster City and its comprehensive healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges.

The drive times to Lancaster City, while manageable, can be affected by traffic and weather conditions. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services can create barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for those who are unable to drive or have limited mobility.

For individuals **moving to Kleinfeltersville**, it is essential to consider the **transportation** challenges and plan accordingly. This may involve exploring options for carpooling, arranging for assistance from family or friends, or researching the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.

**The Future of Healthcare Access in Kleinfeltersville**

The future of **healthcare access** in Kleinfeltersville will likely depend on several factors. Increased investment in public **transportation**, including expanded routes and increased frequency of service, would significantly improve accessibility. Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could help mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges.

The ongoing development of healthcare facilities in the surrounding towns, such as Myerstown and Ephrata, could also reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care. Ultimately, improving **healthcare access** in Kleinfeltersville will require a collaborative effort, involving healthcare providers, **transportation** providers, and community stakeholders. This is particularly important for those facing the complexities of a prostate cancer diagnosis, ensuring they can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.