17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.54 percent of residents in 17363 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 14.32 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stewartstown, PA (ZIP Code 17363)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as prostate cancer, demands meticulous planning. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access for residents of Stewartstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17363), focusing on transportation options to medical facilities capable of providing prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score," reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access potentially life-saving care.

The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services, painting a detailed picture of the transportation landscape for individuals facing this critical health concern. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Stewartstown, as it directly impacts their healthcare access.

Stewartstown, a charming borough nestled in York County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transit options and a reliance on personal vehicles. This geographic reality significantly influences healthcare access, especially for those without personal transportation or facing mobility challenges.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary arteries for navigating the region are Pennsylvania Route 851 and Pennsylvania Route 24. Route 851, running east-west, provides a direct link to Shrewsbury and eventually, Interstate 83. Route 24, heading north-south, connects Stewartstown to Red Lion and York.

Driving times to healthcare facilities specializing in prostate cancer care are crucial. York Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 24 and then Route 30. This route involves navigating moderate traffic, especially during peak hours.

Another important destination is UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive time is similar, around 25-35 minutes, also primarily via Route 24 and Route 30. The variability in drive times highlights the importance of factoring in traffic conditions when planning appointments.

For specialized care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, patients might need to travel further. The drive to the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in Baltimore, Maryland, a nationally recognized center, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via Interstate 83 South. This longer journey underscores the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation alternatives.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Stewartstown are limited. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but routes serving Stewartstown are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Red Lion and York.

The YCTA Route 19, while serving Red Lion, does not directly reach Stewartstown. Passengers would need to utilize a combination of routes, potentially requiring transfers, which can significantly extend travel times. This presents a significant barrier for individuals needing regular appointments, especially those with mobility limitations or undergoing treatment.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor for public transit users. The YCTA strives to provide accessible buses, but the frequency and route coverage in Stewartstown remain a challenge. The lack of comprehensive public transit necessitates a strong reliance on alternative transportation methods.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the York County area. However, their availability in Stewartstown might be less consistent than in more urban areas. The reliance on ride-share services introduces potential delays and cost considerations, particularly for routine appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients reach their appointments safely.

Several NEMT providers operate in the York County region, including several national brands and local companies. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, but they provide a vital service for those facing mobility challenges or lacking access to personal transportation.

**Assessing the Prostate Cancer Score**

Based on the analysis, the Prostate Cancer Score for residents of ZIP Code 17363 is moderate. While the drive times to local hospitals are manageable, the limited public transit options and potential reliance on ride-share services or medical transportation introduce complexities.

The score reflects the importance of personal vehicles for accessing healthcare. Individuals without reliable transportation face significant challenges. The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial mitigating factor, but the associated costs and booking requirements should be considered.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of Stewartstown, proactive planning is essential for managing prostate cancer care. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is the first step, followed by regular screenings and early detection.

When considering moving to Stewartstown, potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare access. Individuals with mobility limitations or those reliant on public transit should thoroughly research available options and factor in potential travel times and costs.

Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services is crucial. Building a network of support, including family, friends, or community organizations, can provide invaluable assistance with transportation and appointments.

The Prostate Cancer Score emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach to healthcare access in Stewartstown. While the region offers quality medical care, the transportation landscape requires careful navigation and proactive planning to ensure timely and efficient access to potentially life-saving treatments. The score highlights the importance of individual preparedness and the need for community resources to support those facing prostate cancer.