12167, Stamford, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12167, Stamford, New York is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.28 percent of residents in 12167 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Margaretville Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.76 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167)

The diagnosis of breast cancer can be a daunting experience, and the journey to treatment is often fraught with emotional and logistical challenges. One critical aspect of this journey is **healthcare access**, specifically the ease with which a patient can reach the necessary medical facilities. This write-up analyzes the **transportation** landscape in Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services. This information is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Stamford**, as it directly impacts the quality of life and care available.

Stamford, nestled in the scenic Catskill Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means that residents often face longer travel times to specialized medical facilities. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents of Stamford, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are therefore a crucial factor in assessing the "Breast Cancer Score." The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer services is Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, NY. The most direct route involves taking NY-23 West. The drive is approximately 40-50 miles and can take between one hour and fifteen minutes to an hour and thirty minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another option for specialized care is Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY. This journey typically involves taking NY-23 East to I-88 East, then I-87 North. The distance is roughly 80-90 miles, and the drive time ranges from one hour and forty-five minutes to two hours and fifteen minutes. This longer travel time can be a significant burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing side effects.

The availability of local primary care physicians and specialists in Stamford itself is also a consideration. While Stamford has its own medical facilities, they may not offer the full spectrum of breast cancer services, such as advanced imaging or radiation therapy. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals, further emphasizing the importance of understanding drive times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Stamford are limited, which impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" negatively. Delaware County, where Stamford is located, has a public transit system, Delaware County Transit (DCT). However, the service is primarily demand-response, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. DCT operates on a fixed-route system for certain areas, but these routes may not directly serve the hospitals in Cooperstown or Albany.

DCT operates several routes, but specific routes and schedules are subject to change. For individuals with breast cancer, the need for reliable and predictable transportation is paramount. The demand-response nature of DCT can pose challenges, particularly for those needing to schedule appointments and treatments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a key consideration for public transit. DCT vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited service frequency and the need for advance scheduling can still present difficulties.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Stamford area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the potential reliance on ride-sharing, but acknowledges the potential for delays or unavailability, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and ensuring a comfortable ride. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies.

These services are often more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, but they provide a crucial lifeline for patients who are unable to drive or have limited mobility. The availability and cost of medical transport services are therefore important factors in the "Breast Cancer Score."

**The "Breast Cancer Score" - A Holistic Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167) reflects the complex interplay of these factors. The score is not a single number but a qualitative assessment that considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and travel time to major hospitals offering breast cancer services.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Local Resources:** The availability of local primary care physicians and specialists.

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167) is moderate. While the area offers access to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can help mitigate these challenges, but the cost and reliability of these services must be considered.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Stamford**

For individuals considering moving to Stamford, NY (ZIP Code 12167), it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options.

* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify the hospitals and specialists that offer the necessary breast cancer services.
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate the need for personal transportation, public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in the travel time to healthcare facilities when planning appointments and treatments.
* **Explore Support Services:** Investigate local support groups and resources for breast cancer patients.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for transportation in case of emergencies.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Stamford, NY, requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access** in this rural community. For those **moving to Stamford**, this information is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensuring access to the care they deserve. By understanding the complexities of the **transportation** system, individuals can proactively manage their healthcare journey and improve their quality of life.