17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17261, South Mountain, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17261 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 7.27 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17261

Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for a condition like prostate cancer, is paramount when considering a move. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 17261, offering a Prostate Cancer Score based on factors influencing healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view for potential residents. This information is crucial for those considering moving to South Mountain, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health needs.

ZIP code 17261, encompassing the charming town of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, presents a unique transportation profile. The area’s proximity to both rural landscapes and the larger metropolitan areas influences healthcare access. The primary arteries for automobile travel are US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Interstate 81, running north-south. These highways are essential for accessing specialized medical facilities.

Drive times to major healthcare providers are a critical component of our Prostate Cancer Score. The closest major hospital, WellSpan Waynesboro Hospital, is conveniently located within the ZIP code. However, specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced urology services, may necessitate travel to larger facilities.

A drive to Chambersburg Hospital, approximately 20 miles east via US Route 30, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers a broader range of medical specialties, including oncology services. Further afield, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a comprehensive academic medical center, is about 75 miles east, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-81 and US Route 322. This longer commute highlights the importance of considering the availability of specialized care when evaluating healthcare access.

Public transportation options in 17261 are limited, which can impact healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is the Gettysburg Transit Authority (GTA). GTA operates bus routes within Franklin County, but the frequency and coverage are limited, especially for destinations outside of Waynesboro and Gettysburg.

The GTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring mobility for individuals with disabilities. However, the routes and schedules may not always align with the need for timely medical appointments. For individuals relying on public transportation, careful planning and consideration of appointment times are essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Waynesboro area. However, their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments requires careful assessment. Factors such as surge pricing and driver availability can significantly impact the affordability and dependability of these services.

Medical transportation services provide a crucial safety net for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. These services, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized assistance for medical appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, offering transport for individuals with mobility limitations.

These services are essential for patients undergoing cancer treatment, especially those requiring frequent appointments for chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The availability and cost of these services are critical considerations for healthcare access. The Prostate Cancer Score will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of these services in the 17261 area.

The Prostate Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Access to support groups, cancer centers, and patient advocacy organizations can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer. The proximity of these resources, both physical and virtual, is factored into the score.

The score will also evaluate the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth offers a valuable alternative to in-person appointments, especially for follow-up consultations or medication management. Access to reliable internet and the availability of telehealth services from local healthcare providers are essential components of the score.

The final Prostate Cancer Score will be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed. Drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, medical transportation services, and the availability of support services will each contribute to the overall score.

A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, with short drive times, readily available public transit, reliable ride-sharing, and comprehensive medical transportation options. A lower score suggests challenges in accessing healthcare, potentially requiring longer travel times, limited public transit, and reliance on less reliable transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to South Mountain, the Prostate Cancer Score provides valuable insights into the healthcare landscape. It allows prospective residents to assess the feasibility of accessing necessary medical care, including specialized oncology services, in the event of a prostate cancer diagnosis.

The score also encourages proactive planning. Understanding the transportation options and healthcare resources in advance allows individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It empowers them to identify potential challenges and develop strategies to mitigate them.

For example, individuals with mobility limitations might prioritize locations with readily available medical transportation services. Those reliant on public transit might consider proximity to bus routes or the availability of ride-sharing services.

The Prostate Cancer Score is more than just a number; it is a tool for informed decision-making. It empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of healthcare access, ensuring they can receive the care they need, when they need it. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to South Mountain, as it allows them to assess the suitability of the area based on their healthcare needs.

The final score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest level of healthcare access. This score, combined with the detailed analysis of transportation options and healthcare resources, provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17261, contributing to a more informed decision for those contemplating a move.