12865, Salem, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12865, Salem, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.28 percent of residents in 12865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saratoga Hospital with a distance of 24.11 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12865**

The quaint charm of Salem, New York, nestled in the heart of Washington County, offers a serene backdrop for life. But when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” evaluates the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare facilities from ZIP code 12865, considering various transportation options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture for potential residents, particularly those seeking a supportive environment with convenient access to medical care.

The foundation of this score lies in drive times. From the center of Salem (12865), the most direct route to larger hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers often involves traversing the scenic routes. The primary artery is Route 22, a north-south thoroughfare, which connects Salem to larger towns like Bennington, Vermont, and Hudson Falls, New York. Further east, Route 29 offers an alternative, leading towards Greenwich and Saratoga Springs. These routes, while offering scenic views, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, especially during the harsh winters common to the region. Delays due to snow or ice are not uncommon, potentially impacting healthcare access.

For breast cancer treatment, the nearest major hospitals with specialized oncology departments are in Saratoga Springs (Saratoga Hospital) and Albany (Albany Medical Center). The drive to Saratoga Hospital, primarily via Route 29 and I-87 (the Adirondack Northway), is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Albany Medical Center, a more extensive facility, requires a drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, typically utilizing Route 22 to I-87 South. These drive times, while manageable, necessitate careful planning, especially for regular appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options in Salem are limited. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) offers some bus routes, but their reach within Salem and to larger medical centers is restricted. Currently, GGFT does not have routes that directly connect Salem to Saratoga Springs or Albany. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it reduces healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. ADA accessibility on the GGFT buses is available, but the limited routes and frequency pose significant challenges for patients requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their availability can fluctuate. The rural nature of Washington County means that wait times for a ride-share can be longer than in more urban areas. This unpredictability could be problematic for time-sensitive medical appointments. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Saratoga Springs or Albany, can quickly accumulate, adding a financial burden to an already stressful situation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue. Companies like LogistiCare and Veyo provide non-emergency medical transportation, but their coverage areas and availability in Salem should be carefully investigated. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. While offering a vital service, their availability and the potential for scheduling conflicts must be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of local medical practices within Salem. While Salem may have primary care physicians, access to specialized breast cancer care, such as oncologists and surgeons, is generally limited. This necessitates travel to larger hospitals, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation. The presence of a local clinic offering mammograms and follow-up care would positively impact the score, providing a crucial first line of defense and reducing the need for frequent long-distance travel.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 12865 reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its location. The drive times to major hospitals, the limitations of public transportation, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to the assessment. While the scenic beauty and peaceful lifestyle of Salem are undeniable, potential residents, particularly those concerned about breast cancer care, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and their potential impact on healthcare access.

Moving to Salem, therefore, demands careful consideration of transportation. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a tool to assess the ease of accessing vital healthcare services. The score will be improved with initiatives that enhance public transportation, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, or promote the establishment of local medical facilities. The goal is to ensure that residents of Salem have timely and convenient access to the care they need, fostering a supportive and health-conscious community.