17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.32 percent of residents in 17044 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.81 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044)

Considering a move to Lewistown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17044)? This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of transportation options and healthcare access specifically tailored for individuals managing or concerned about prostate cancer. This score considers factors crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care, focusing on the practical realities of getting to and from medical appointments. This is not medical advice; consult a physician for personalized recommendations.

The score is based on a scale of 1-10, with 10 representing optimal access and 1 representing severely limited access. The score will be calculated based on transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical facilities within a reasonable radius. The goal is to provide a realistic picture for those making important life decisions.

**Transportation: The Lifeblood of Healthcare Access**

In Lewistown, the ability to get to medical appointments is paramount. Effective transportation is not merely a convenience; it's a necessity for maintaining health, especially when dealing with a chronic condition like prostate cancer. Delays in treatment or difficulty attending follow-up appointments can significantly impact outcomes. This score evaluates the available options and their potential challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways: Navigating the Landscape**

Lewistown's geographic location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US Route 322, the main artery connecting Lewistown to larger cities, and US Route 22, which runs parallel to it. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak commuting hours.

For prostate cancer care, the nearest comprehensive facilities are likely in Harrisburg, approximately 60-70 miles away. The drive, primarily on US-322 East, can take upwards of 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. This journey requires careful planning, especially for individuals undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or other side effects. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

Driving to State College, about 75 miles away, is another option, primarily via US-322 West. The drive time is comparable to Harrisburg. These distances highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for significant time commitments for medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Lewistown is limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) offers bus services within the county. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve the major medical centers in Harrisburg or State College.

The MCTA buses are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent schedules and limited routes make them less practical for time-sensitive medical appointments, especially those requiring specialized care. Reliance on public transit for prostate cancer treatment would likely present considerable logistical challenges.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Lewistown, but their availability and reliability can vary. While they offer a potential solution for short-distance trips, their cost and the uncertainty of availability, especially during off-peak hours or for longer distances, make them a less dependable option for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services can be more expensive than ride-sharing but offer the advantage of trained drivers and assistance with mobility. However, their availability and the need for advance booking must be considered. Researching local providers is crucial.

**Healthcare Facilities and Specialists: The Core of the Score**

The presence of local healthcare facilities and specialists directly impacts the "Prostate Cancer Score." While Lewistown has a hospital, UPMC-Lewistown Hospital, and some primary care physicians, specialized prostate cancer care, including urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapy, is likely to be found in Harrisburg or State College. This necessitates the longer travel times discussed earlier.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and access to clinical trials, can also influence the score. These resources can help patients navigate the complexities of prostate cancer care and improve their overall experience.

**Calculating the Prostate Cancer Score**

Considering the factors above, the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044) is a **4 out of 10**. This score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** The need to travel significant distances to access specialized care, particularly to Harrisburg or State College, impacts the score negatively.
* **Public Transit:** The limited availability and practicality of public transportation for medical appointments further reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing/Medical Transport:** The potential for ride-sharing services and medical transport to fill the gaps is acknowledged, but their cost and reliability limitations are factored in.
* **Healthcare Access:** The presence of local primary care facilities is a positive factor, but the need to travel for specialized prostate cancer care significantly reduces the score.

**Moving to Lewistown: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients**

For individuals with prostate cancer or those at high risk, moving to Lewistown requires careful consideration. The primary challenge is the distance to specialized medical care.

Before relocating, it is essential to:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate personal vehicle reliability and consider the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify urologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists in Harrisburg or State College and assess their availability and appointment scheduling processes.
* **Explore Support Services:** Investigate the availability of patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to assist with navigating the healthcare system.
* **Plan for Travel Time:** Factor in the time commitment required for medical appointments, including travel time, waiting time, and the potential for delays.

**Conclusion**

While Lewistown offers a pleasant environment, the "Prostate Cancer Score" reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access for those managing prostate cancer. The reliance on personal vehicles and the need to travel for specialized care are significant considerations. Careful planning, including assessing transportation options and identifying healthcare providers in advance, is crucial for ensuring access to timely and effective care. The decision to move to Lewistown should be made with a clear understanding of these challenges and a proactive approach to addressing them. This is not a deterrent, but a reality check for those prioritizing healthcare access.