17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.67 percent of residents in 17086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 23.28 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Richfield, PA (ZIP Code 17086)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like prostate cancer, is multifaceted. It extends beyond the doctor's office, encompassing the practical realities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of these factors for residents of Richfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17086), offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which individuals can receive necessary medical care. This is especially relevant for those *moving to Richfield*, as they will need to establish new healthcare connections.

Richfield, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical services. The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers various aspects, including drive times, public transit options, and alternative *transportation* solutions.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary method of *transportation* for most Richfield residents is the personal vehicle. The nearest major medical facilities offering comprehensive prostate cancer care are located in Harrisburg, approximately 45 miles away. The most direct route involves utilizing Pennsylvania Route 35 south, which merges onto US Route 322 East. This leg of the journey typically takes around one hour, depending on traffic.

The return trip, especially after a potentially stressful medical appointment, could be equally taxing. The time spent in transit, coupled with the emotional and physical toll of the treatment itself, can significantly impact a patient's well-being.

The potential for delays on US Route 322, particularly during peak hours or due to accidents, must also be considered. These delays can add considerable time to the journey, making it crucial to factor in extra travel time when planning appointments. The rural nature of the roads also means that snow or ice can make the drive particularly treacherous during the winter months.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public *transportation* options in Richfield and the surrounding areas are limited. The primary provider of public transit is the Capital Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's services are primarily concentrated in the Harrisburg metropolitan area, with limited reach into the more rural areas like Richfield.

CAT does offer some routes that extend into the outskirts of Harrisburg. But these routes do not directly service Richfield. This means that relying on public transit for prostate cancer care would necessitate multiple transfers and a significantly extended travel time.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these routes is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While CAT strives to provide accessible services, the longer travel times and multiple transfers can still present significant challenges for individuals undergoing treatment.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Harrisburg area. However, their availability in Richfield itself may be more sporadic. Relying on these services for regular medical appointments could be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical *transportation* services, such as MedRide or AmeriFleet, offer specialized *transportation* for patients. These services often provide door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services can be expensive, and the cost can be a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for some individuals.

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

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Richfield (ZIP Code 17086) is therefore influenced by a confluence of factors. The primary consideration is the distance to specialized prostate cancer care centers. The one-hour drive to Harrisburg is manageable, but the reliance on personal *transportation* presents a challenge.

The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further diminish the score. The availability and cost of medical *transportation* services also impact the overall assessment.

For those *moving to Richfield*, the "Prostate Cancer Score" should be a crucial consideration. Prospective residents should thoroughly research the availability of healthcare services and the *transportation* options available to them.

**Improving the Score:**

Several strategies could improve the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Richfield residents. The expansion of public transit services to include routes that directly connect Richfield to Harrisburg would be a significant step.

Increased availability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours, would also enhance *healthcare access*.

The promotion of medical *transportation* services and the exploration of financial assistance programs to offset the cost of these services would further improve the score.

Telemedicine consultations, where appropriate, could also reduce the need for frequent travel to medical facilities.

**Conclusion:**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Richfield (ZIP Code 17086) reflects the challenges of *healthcare access* in a rural setting. While the distance to specialized care is manageable, the reliance on personal *transportation* and the limited public transit options present significant hurdles. The cost and availability of alternative *transportation* solutions, such as ride-sharing and medical *transportation*, also influence the score. Individuals considering *moving to Richfield* should carefully evaluate these factors when assessing their healthcare needs. By acknowledging these challenges and exploring potential solutions, the community can work towards improving *healthcare access* and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need.