17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 0.78 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17120

The decision to move, especially to a new city like Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, often involves a complex equation of factors. For men, that equation should include a critical variable: **healthcare access**, specifically concerning prostate cancer screening and treatment. This write-up analyzes the landscape of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP Code 17120, focusing on their impact on **healthcare access** for prostate cancer patients and those seeking preventative care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, aiming to provide a clear picture for those considering a move or already residing in this area.

ZIP Code 17120 encompasses a significant portion of Harrisburg, including the historic downtown, the vibrant Midtown, and areas along the Susquehanna River. This central location offers a diverse range of amenities and, importantly, a variety of healthcare facilities. However, the ease with which one can reach these facilities varies depending on location within the ZIP code and the chosen mode of **transportation**. Prostate cancer, a disease that often requires regular check-ups and potential treatment, necessitates a realistic understanding of these logistical hurdles.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for **transportation** are Interstate 83 (I-83), the main north-south corridor, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), providing east-west access. Reaching UPMC Harrisburg, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 17120 typically involves navigating city streets like Front Street, Second Street, and Forster Street to access I-83. Drive times can vary considerably depending on traffic, especially during rush hour. A trip from the northern edge of 17120 might take 10-15 minutes in light traffic, while a commute from the southern end could stretch to 20-30 minutes, particularly if encountering congestion around the Capitol Complex or the Market Street interchange.

Other crucial roads include Route 22/322, providing access to the west and east, and Paxton Street, a significant east-west thoroughfare. These routes offer alternative paths to hospitals and clinics, potentially mitigating the impact of traffic on I-83. However, these roads are also prone to congestion, particularly during peak hours. Understanding these potential delays is crucial for scheduling appointments and managing treatment regimens.

Public **transportation** in Harrisburg, managed by the Capital Area Transit (CAT), offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes serve ZIP Code 17120, including the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 lines, which traverse key areas within the ZIP code and connect to major healthcare facilities. These routes often have stops near UPMC Harrisburg, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center (located just outside the ZIP code), and various clinics.

CAT buses are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, making them a viable option for individuals with mobility limitations. However, bus schedules and frequency can be a challenge. Waiting times between buses can sometimes be lengthy, potentially adding to travel time and making timely appointments more difficult. Furthermore, the efficiency of public transit is often affected by traffic, further impacting travel times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** option. These services provide on-demand rides, bypassing the constraints of fixed bus schedules. The convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage, especially for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by medical transport companies, provide specialized **transportation** for patients with specific needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical requirements. While offering peace of mind and specialized care, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. Researching and comparing different medical transport providers is essential to find the best fit for individual needs and financial circumstances.

The availability of healthcare facilities within and around ZIP Code 17120 is a positive factor. UPMC Harrisburg, located within the ZIP code, offers comprehensive medical services, including urology and oncology departments specializing in prostate cancer care. Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, located just outside the ZIP code, provides additional options for diagnosis, treatment, and support. Numerous private practices and clinics within the area also offer urological services and prostate cancer screenings.

When **moving to Harrisburg**, or evaluating your current situation, consider the proximity of these facilities to your residence within 17120. The closer you are to a hospital or clinic, the less reliant you are on **transportation** and the more accessible your **healthcare access** becomes.

In assessing the overall **healthcare access** landscape for prostate cancer patients in ZIP Code 17120, several factors emerge. While the presence of quality healthcare facilities is a major advantage, the reliance on various **transportation** methods introduces complexities. Personal vehicle users face potential traffic delays, while public transit users must contend with schedules and frequency. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenience but come with associated costs.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17120, therefore, isn't a simple numerical value. It's a nuanced evaluation that considers the interplay of **transportation** options, the location of healthcare facilities, and individual needs. Residents and prospective movers should carefully assess their **transportation** preferences, budget, and mobility limitations when evaluating **healthcare access** within this area. Thorough research, including comparing drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing costs, is essential to making informed decisions about **moving to Harrisburg** and ensuring access to quality prostate cancer care.