17093, Summerdale, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17093, Summerdale, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.49 percent of residents in 17093 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute with a distance of 2.43 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summerdale (ZIP Code 17093)

Summerdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17093), a charming community nestled along the Susquehanna River, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, when considering healthcare, particularly the complexities of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, the reality of transportation and access becomes paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the ease with which residents of Summerdale can navigate the healthcare landscape, focusing on transportation options and the time it takes to reach essential medical facilities. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Summerdale, especially those with existing health concerns or a family history of prostate cancer.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" considers several factors: drive times to urology specialists, radiation oncology centers, and surgical facilities; the availability and efficiency of public transportation; the presence of ride-sharing services; and the accessibility of medical transportation options. Each category is weighed to provide a nuanced understanding of healthcare access within the ZIP code.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways to Care**

For many Summerdale residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) offers a relatively direct route to hospitals and specialist offices in Harrisburg and Hershey. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can dramatically increase drive times.

To reach UPMC Harrisburg, a well-regarded hospital with urology services, the drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes via the Turnpike and US-322. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility with comprehensive cancer care, is accessible via I-81 North, taking approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. These times are averages and can fluctuate considerably based on the time of day, weather, and unforeseen circumstances.

Navigating local roads like Linglestown Road and Jonestown Road offers alternative routes, but these can be slower and more susceptible to delays. The key is to be prepared, especially when dealing with appointments, and factor in extra time for travel. The reliability of a personal vehicle is, therefore, a critical component of healthcare access in Summerdale.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Summerdale, while present, are limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system serves the Harrisburg area, including parts of Summerdale. However, bus routes within ZIP Code 17093 are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities.

Route 5, for example, provides service along Linglestown Road, offering a connection to Harrisburg. However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be restrictive. Furthermore, the walk from a bus stop to a specialist’s office or hospital can be considerable, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations.

CAT does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limitations in route coverage and frequency make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for many seeking timely and convenient healthcare access. The reliance on public transit, therefore, would likely negatively impact the "Prostate Cancer Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Summerdale, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While they provide a convenient alternative to driving, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, also exist. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services, however, may require pre-booking and can have limitations in terms of availability and coverage.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services enhances the "Prostate Cancer Score," providing alternative options for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, the cost and availability of these services remain crucial considerations.

**Assessing the "Prostate Cancer Score"**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Summerdale, ZIP Code 17093, reflects a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to major highways provides relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers a degree of flexibility, but cost and availability remain concerns. For individuals considering moving to Summerdale, particularly those with existing health concerns or a family history of prostate cancer, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and preferences is essential.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, but traffic congestion can be a factor. Public transportation is limited, and ride-sharing costs can accumulate. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Summerdale is therefore moderately positive, but with caveats.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Living in Summerdale offers a desirable lifestyle, but when it comes to healthcare access, a proactive approach is essential. Residents should familiarize themselves with the various transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers. Planning ahead, considering potential delays, and exploring all available resources are crucial for navigating the healthcare landscape effectively.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating healthcare access in Summerdale. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate care they deserve. This is particularly important for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis or treatment, where prompt access to specialists and treatment centers can significantly impact outcomes. The decision to move to Summerdale should include a thorough assessment of healthcare access, ensuring that transportation considerations are factored into the overall quality of life.