12913, Bloomingdale, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12913, Bloomingdale, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.73 percent of residents in 12913 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 26.60 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bloomingdale (ZIP Code 12913)

The decision to relocate is often intertwined with considerations of healthcare access. This is especially true for individuals navigating a breast cancer diagnosis or those seeking preventative care. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 12913 (Bloomingdale, NY), evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing essential breast cancer services. Understanding the commute to healthcare is crucial, and this write-up aims to illuminate the realities of navigating the area.

Bloomingdale, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural character necessitates a careful assessment of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of accessible options for individuals with disabilities, ultimately shaping the overall accessibility to breast cancer care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Bloomingdale, the automobile remains a primary mode of transportation. The drive to healthcare facilities, particularly those specializing in breast cancer treatment, is heavily influenced by the local road network. The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating **NY-3**, the primary thoroughfare connecting Bloomingdale to Saranac Lake and beyond. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes to Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, a facility offering a range of diagnostic and treatment services.

Further afield, accessing specialized care may require journeys to Plattsburgh, approximately an hour and a half away. This involves utilizing **NY-3**, merging onto **NY-86**, and eventually connecting with **I-87 (The Northway)**. The Northway provides a more efficient, albeit longer, route to Plattsburgh. Rush hour traffic, while less pronounced than in urban areas, can still impact travel times, particularly around Saranac Lake and Lake Placid.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Bloomingdale are limited, reflecting the region's rural character. The primary public transit provider is the **Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT)**. While CCPT offers routes, their frequency and coverage in Bloomingdale and surrounding areas are restricted. Individuals relying on public transit for healthcare appointments should meticulously plan their journeys, accounting for potential delays and limited service hours. Information about routes and schedules is available online and by contacting CCPT directly.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. CCPT does offer accessible services; however, the need to pre-book and the potential for longer travel times necessitate careful planning. The challenges of public transit highlight the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, especially for those undergoing treatment or requiring frequent appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Adirondack region, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Bloomingdale. Demand can fluctuate, and wait times may be longer than in more populated areas. Patients should pre-book rides whenever possible, especially for time-sensitive appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are designed to cater to patients with specific needs, including those with mobility limitations or those requiring medical support during transit. Several medical transport providers serve the Adirondack region, including **Adirondack Medical Transport** and **Lake Placid Ambulance Service**. These services often require pre-booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Bloomingdale reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Adirondack Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the ability to drive. For those without these options, accessing healthcare requires careful planning and reliance on medical transportation or assistance from family and friends.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access encompasses a broader range of considerations. The availability of specialists, the quality of care, and the financial implications of treatment all play a crucial role. While this analysis focuses on transportation, it's essential to consider these other factors when evaluating the suitability of Bloomingdale for individuals with breast cancer or those seeking preventative care.

**Moving to Bloomingdale: A Holistic Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Bloomingdale, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare access. It's crucial to weigh the potential benefits of the area, such as its natural beauty and peaceful environment, against the practical considerations of transportation and healthcare availability. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage, and exploring available support networks are essential steps in making an informed decision.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Bloomingdale requires a proactive approach. Understanding the transportation options, planning appointments strategically, and exploring available support services are crucial for ensuring access to essential breast cancer care. While the rural setting presents challenges, the community's commitment to healthcare and the availability of specialized medical transport services offer a degree of support. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for individuals seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access in Bloomingdale, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.