12457, Mount Tremper, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12457, Mount Tremper, New York is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.47 percent of residents in 12457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Healthalliance Hospital Marys Avenue Campus with a distance of 15.63 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Tremper, NY (ZIP Code 12457)

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, and the ability to swiftly access quality healthcare becomes paramount. For residents of Mount Tremper, New York (ZIP Code 12457), a rural community nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care presents a unique set of challenges. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of essential healthcare services, focusing on transportation options, to provide a clearer picture for those living in or considering **moving to Mount Tremper**.

This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options, each playing a critical role in determining **healthcare access**. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis, seeking preventative care, or simply wanting to make an informed decision about their healthcare options in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, region.

The closest major medical centers equipped to handle breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are located outside of Mount Tremper. The primary destinations for specialized care include Kingston, NY, and Poughkeepsie, NY. These locations offer a range of services, from mammograms and biopsies to surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The journey to these facilities, primarily by car, forms the backbone of the transportation landscape for healthcare in this ZIP code.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The most direct route to Kingston, the nearest city with significant medical facilities, involves navigating a combination of local roads and major highways. From Mount Tremper, the drive typically begins on Route 28, a winding two-lane road that traverses the scenic landscape of the Catskills. Depending on traffic, this leg of the journey can take approximately 20-30 minutes.

Route 28 eventually intersects with the New York State Thruway (I-87), a major north-south artery. Entering the Thruway at Exit 19 (Kingston) provides relatively quick access to the city's medical centers. The Thruway portion of the trip usually takes another 15-20 minutes, making the total drive time to Kingston approximately 45-50 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions.

Traveling to Poughkeepsie requires a longer journey. The initial route follows Route 28 to the Thruway, but instead of exiting at Kingston, the drive continues south on I-87. This trip is considerably longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer drive time can be a significant factor for those undergoing frequent treatments or facing urgent medical needs.

Traffic conditions can significantly impact these drive times, especially during peak hours, weekends, and tourist seasons. Road closures due to weather, construction, or accidents can further complicate travel. Residents should factor in potential delays when planning appointments and treatments.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in the Mount Tremper area are limited. Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize frequent or direct connections to major medical facilities. UCAT Route J, for example, serves the Route 28 corridor, but its frequency is limited, and the journey to Kingston would require multiple transfers and significantly extend travel time.

The UCAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the infrequent service and indirect routes pose a challenge for those needing timely access to healthcare.

Public transit is a less viable option for those needing regular breast cancer care, especially given the time constraints and potential for increased fatigue associated with treatment. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers can add considerable stress and inconvenience.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mount Tremper area, but their 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 trips to medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for those who require assistance with transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including First Transit and TransCare. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may require advance booking.

The reliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access. The availability of these options can be crucial for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Assessing the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for Mount Tremper, NY (12457) reflects the challenges associated with accessing timely and convenient breast cancer care. While the area offers scenic beauty and a peaceful lifestyle, its rural location and limited **transportation** infrastructure present significant hurdles.

The reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of medical trips, coupled with the potential for traffic delays and the limited availability of public transit, can create stress and inconvenience for patients. The cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services further impact the overall score.

The Breast Cancer Score should be considered when assessing the suitability of Mount Tremper for those with a history of breast cancer, those seeking preventative care, or those anticipating future medical needs. Careful planning and consideration of **healthcare access** are essential for residents and those **moving to Mount Tremper**.

**Recommendations**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for Mount Tremper, several steps could be taken. Expanding public transportation options, including more frequent and direct routes to medical facilities, would significantly enhance access. Collaborating with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates or guaranteed availability for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, increasing awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those who qualify could help bridge the gap in **transportation** access. Community initiatives to support carpooling or volunteer driver programs could also offer valuable assistance.

Ultimately, improving the Breast Cancer Score requires a multifaceted approach, addressing both the practical challenges of **transportation** and the broader issue of **healthcare access** in a rural community. By acknowledging these challenges and working collaboratively, the residents of Mount Tremper can strive to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the timely and comprehensive breast cancer care they deserve.