17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.89 percent of residents in 17827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 22.76 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Freeburg (ZIP Code 17827)

The decision to relocate, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 17827 (Freeburg, Pennsylvania), evaluating the ease of transportation to medical facilities offering prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, helping you assess the practicality of accessing vital healthcare services.

Freeburg, nestled in Snyder County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. Its rural setting often translates to longer travel distances compared to more urban environments. Understanding these transportation realities is crucial for anyone considering moving to Freeburg, particularly those managing or concerned about prostate cancer.

**The Score's Foundation: Transportation and Healthcare Access**

Our "Prostate Cancer Score" is built on the premise that timely access to healthcare is paramount. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, the score weighs factors that influence the speed and ease of reaching medical providers. The score will assess the drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Treatment**

The primary mode of transportation in Freeburg and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Driving times to facilities offering prostate cancer services are a critical component of our score. The closest major medical centers with comprehensive urology departments and cancer treatment facilities are located in nearby cities.

* **To Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** This is a major regional healthcare provider. The drive typically involves taking **Route 35 South** and then connecting to **Route 11/15 South**. The drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, covering a distance of around 35 miles. This is a reasonable commute, but weather conditions or traffic can significantly extend the journey.

* **To UPMC Susquehanna (Williamsport):** Another option is UPMC Susquehanna, located in Williamsport. The most direct route involves taking **Route 35 North** and then connecting to **Route 15 North**. The drive time is roughly 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering approximately 45 miles. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

* **Local Options:** While Freeburg itself doesn't have specialized prostate cancer treatment centers, there may be local primary care physicians or urologists in nearby towns like Selinsgrove or Middleburg. These options can be accessed via **Route 35** or local roads, with drive times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. These options are suitable for initial consultations, follow-ups, or routine checkups.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Freeburg are limited. The primary provider is the Snyder County Transportation Authority (SCTA). However, the SCTA operates primarily on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This can pose challenges for those needing immediate or frequent medical appointments.

* **SCTA Services:** The SCTA offers door-to-door service within Snyder County and limited connections to neighboring counties. While they may provide transportation to medical appointments, scheduling and availability are key considerations. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, catering to individuals with disabilities.

* **Route Numbers and Schedules:** Specific route numbers and fixed schedules are not the norm. Riders must call the SCTA to arrange transportation, providing details about their destination, appointment time, and any special needs. This requires proactive planning and may not be suitable for all situations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in Freeburg and the surrounding areas. Their availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is not advisable.

* **Uber and Lyft:** While these services may be available, their reliability is not guaranteed. Expect longer wait times and potentially higher fares compared to urban areas.

* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for those who require them. These services are typically reserved for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs.

**The "Prostate Cancer Score" in Action**

Based on the analysis above, we can begin to formulate a "Prostate Cancer Score" for Freeburg. This score is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment of the factors influencing healthcare access.

* **Drive Time Considerations:** The drive times to major medical centers are moderate, but the reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning. Weather conditions and traffic can impact travel times.

* **Public Transit Limitations:** The limited public transit options require advance scheduling and may not be suitable for all.

* **Ride-Sharing Unpredictability:** The unreliable availability of ride-sharing services poses a challenge.

* **Local Resources:** The presence of local primary care physicians and potential urologists in nearby towns offers some convenience for initial consultations and follow-ups.

**Recommendations for Moving to Freeburg**

For individuals considering a move to Freeburg, particularly those with prostate cancer concerns, several recommendations are essential:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the reliability of your vehicle.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Contact the SCTA to understand their services and scheduling procedures.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify local primary care physicians and specialists.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a contingency plan for transportation in case of unexpected medical needs.
* **Consider Proximity to Major Centers:** Weigh the benefits of living closer to Danville or Williamsport.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Healthcare Decisions**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Freeburg highlights the importance of understanding transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful rural lifestyle, the distance to specialized medical facilities necessitates careful planning and consideration. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about moving to Freeburg and ensure they have access to the vital healthcare services they need. This score encourages a proactive approach to healthcare access, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of medical care in a rural environment. Careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential for anyone considering moving to Freeburg and managing prostate cancer.