12903, Plattsburgh, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12903, Plattsburgh, New York is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.44 percent of residents in 12903 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 1.91 miles from the area.

The crisp air of Plattsburgh, New York, a gateway to the Adirondacks, offers a certain charm, but securing timely healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, requires careful consideration. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of ZIP code 12903, factoring in transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. This 'Breast Cancer Score' aims to provide a clear picture for those considering moving to Plattsburgh or seeking care within the area.

Plattsburgh's geography presents both advantages and challenges. The city’s relatively compact size facilitates shorter commutes within its boundaries. However, the surrounding rural areas and the need to access specialized care centers outside the immediate vicinity introduce transportation complexities. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, which often involves frequent appointments for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities within Plattsburgh are generally manageable. The **Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH)**, the primary hospital in the area, is easily accessible from most parts of 12903. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code, the drive typically takes between five and fifteen minutes. The major routes, including **New York State Route 3 (NY-3)**, **US Route 9 (US-9)**, and **Interstate 87 (I-87)**, provide efficient routes for accessing CVPH. The hospital's location, just off US-9, makes it particularly convenient for residents in the southern and western parts of the ZIP code.

For specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Burlington, Vermont, or Albany, New York. These trips significantly increase travel time and require careful planning. Burlington, approximately 70 miles away, is accessible via I-87 and the ferry system across Lake Champlain. The drive can take up to two hours, depending on traffic and ferry schedules. Albany, roughly 160 miles south, is reachable via I-87, with a drive time of about three hours. These longer distances highlight the importance of reliable transportation options and the potential burden on patients and their families.

Public transportation in Plattsburgh is limited but offers a viable alternative for some residents. The **Clinton County Public Transit (CCPT)** provides bus service throughout the county, including routes that serve the city of Plattsburgh and access healthcare facilities. The CCPT operates several routes, with specific numbers and schedules available on their website. The routes are designed to connect residential areas with key destinations, including CVPH and various medical offices. However, the frequency of service and the coverage area may not be sufficient for all residents, especially those living in more remote parts of 12903.

The CCPT strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. Passengers with disabilities can also request paratransit services for door-to-door transportation. However, the availability of paratransit services may be limited, and booking in advance is often required. This is a crucial factor to consider when assessing healthcare access for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Plattsburgh, offering another transportation option. However, the availability of drivers can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Patients and their families should factor in the potential expense when planning their transportation needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are also available. Companies like **CareRide** and **Ambulette Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or use public transportation due to their medical condition. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is not just about drive times. It is about the overall ease of access to care. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape efficiently and affordably is critical. For individuals considering moving to Plattsburgh or seeking breast cancer care within 12903, the availability of multiple transportation options is reassuring. The proximity of CVPH and the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, though with limitations, contribute to a reasonable level of healthcare access.

However, the need to travel to Burlington or Albany for specialized care necessitates careful planning and consideration of the longer travel times and potential costs. The reliability of transportation and the ability to secure timely appointments are crucial factors in the overall quality of care. While Plattsburgh offers a relatively accessible environment for healthcare access, the limitations of public transit and the need for longer travel times for specialized care should be carefully considered.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for 12903 reflects a mixed picture. While the city itself offers relatively good access to primary care and basic services, the need for specialized care outside the immediate area introduces transportation challenges. Residents should proactively explore all available transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services, to ensure they can access the care they need in a timely and efficient manner. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for anyone seeking or receiving breast cancer care in Plattsburgh. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively directly impacts the quality of life and healthcare access for residents of 12903.