10974, Sloatsburg, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 10974, Sloatsburg, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.27 percent of residents in 10974 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sloatsburg (ZIP Code 10974)

Considering a move to Sloatsburg, New York (ZIP Code 10974)? Beyond the charming village atmosphere and proximity to Harriman State Park, a crucial factor in your decision-making process should be healthcare access, particularly for women concerned about breast cancer. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on reaching essential medical services. We'll explore the realities of transportation in Sloatsburg, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all crucial elements of healthcare access.

Sloatsburg's location in the Ramapo Mountains presents unique challenges. The town is nestled in a valley, with limited direct access to major healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for transportation are the New York State Thruway (I-87) and Route 17. These highways, while offering relatively quick access to the broader region, can also be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. This congestion directly impacts drive times, which is a significant factor when considering healthcare access.

For residents without personal vehicles, public transportation is a critical lifeline. The Transport of Rockland (TOR) bus system provides service to Sloatsburg, offering routes that connect to larger towns and cities with hospitals and specialized medical centers. However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of appointment times, particularly for treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which often require frequent visits.

The availability of ADA-accessible features on public transit is also a crucial consideration. TOR buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the accessibility of bus stops themselves can vary, and navigating uneven terrain or inclement weather while waiting for a bus can pose challenges. The overall reliability of the public transportation system is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score, directly impacting the ease and timeliness of accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Sloatsburg. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who may not have access to a car or prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, also exist. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability and affordability of these services contribute to the overall Breast Cancer Score.

**Drive Times to Healthcare Facilities**

The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care services are located in surrounding towns and cities. The drive times to these facilities are a crucial element of the Breast Cancer Score.

* **Good Samaritan Hospital (Suffern, NY):** This hospital is a relatively short drive from Sloatsburg, typically accessible via Route 17. Drive times can vary from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center, including diagnostic services, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Montefiore Nyack Hospital (Nyack, NY):** Reaching this hospital involves navigating Route 17 and the Palisades Interstate Parkway. Drive times typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, again contingent on traffic. Montefiore Nyack Hospital provides a range of cancer care services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
* **Westchester Medical Center (Valhalla, NY):** This is a more significant trip, requiring travel on the New York State Thruway (I-87) and often the Sprain Brook Parkway. Drive times can range from 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic. Westchester Medical Center is a major regional referral center, offering specialized cancer care services and clinical trials.

These drive times are estimations, and it's essential to factor in potential delays due to traffic, weather, and road closures. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the accessibility of these facilities, considering the time and effort required to reach them.

**Public Transit Considerations**

The TOR bus system offers several routes that connect Sloatsburg to surrounding towns and cities.

* **Route 97:** This route provides service to Suffern, where connections can be made to other bus routes and the Metro-North Railroad.
* **Route 91:** This route offers service to Spring Valley, where connections can be made to other bus routes.

While these routes offer a vital link to healthcare facilities, their frequency and reliability must be considered. The Breast Cancer Score takes into account the limitations of public transit, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability and cost can be a concern. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance, but they also come with associated costs. The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability, affordability, and reliability of these services.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for Sloatsburg (ZIP Code 10974) is moderately challenging. While the town has access to essential healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents some hurdles.

* **Drive Times:** The drive times to major hospitals are reasonable, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Public transit is available but has limitations in terms of frequency and coverage.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services are available but may be unreliable and expensive.
* **Medical Transportation:** Medical transportation services are available but may require advance booking and be costly.

**Recommendations for Residents**

For individuals considering moving to Sloatsburg or currently residing there, several recommendations can improve healthcare access:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your transportation needs based on your individual circumstances, including access to a car, the ability to drive, and the frequency of medical appointments.
* **Plan for Transportation:** Develop a transportation plan that considers all available options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Explore Local Resources:** Investigate local resources, such as community health centers and patient advocacy groups, that can provide assistance with transportation and other healthcare-related needs.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, choose a residence that is located near public transit routes or within a reasonable distance of healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Sloatsburg is a valuable tool for women considering a move or residing in the area. While the town offers a desirable lifestyle, understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access is essential. By carefully evaluating the transportation options and planning accordingly, residents can ensure they have access to the necessary healthcare services. This information is crucial for anyone making the decision to call Sloatsburg home, providing a more informed perspective on the realities of healthcare access within the community. The ultimate goal is to ensure that healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is as seamless and stress-free as possible.