12945, Lake Clear, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12945, Lake Clear, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.10 percent of residents in 12945 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adirondack Medical Center - Saranac Lake with a distance of 5.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lake Clear, NY (ZIP Code 12945)

The tranquility of Lake Clear, New York, nestled within the Adirondack Park, offers a serene backdrop for life. But for residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the beauty of the surroundings must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 12945, examines the challenges and opportunities in **transportation** to crucial medical services, impacting **healthcare access** and informing decisions for anyone **moving to Lake Clear**.

The Breast Cancer Score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the journey from diagnosis to treatment. This score helps assess the ease of reaching specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities, understanding the burden a breast cancer patient might face.

The primary challenge for residents of Lake Clear lies in its relative isolation. The nearest major medical centers equipped for comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Saranac Lake and Plattsburgh, necessitating travel. The drive to Saranac Lake, the closest option, is roughly 15 miles, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route typically involves traveling along NY-30 south, a scenic but winding road.

Plattsburgh, offering a wider array of specialized services, is about 60 miles away. The drive to Plattsburgh involves navigating NY-30 south to NY-86 east, then joining I-87 north, also known as the Adirondack Northway. This journey can take between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, significantly increasing the time commitment for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The Northway, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather, particularly during winter months.

Public **transportation** options within ZIP code 12945 are limited. The Adirondack Transit System (ATS) provides bus service throughout the region, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve larger towns. Currently, there are no direct ATS routes connecting Lake Clear with Saranac Lake or Plattsburgh. Individuals relying on public transit would likely require multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and complexity. Furthermore, the ATS buses have ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, but the infrequency of service remains a significant hurdle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Adirondack region, including Lake Clear. However, their availability is inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. Reliability is key, and while these services exist, they might not be a dependable solution for consistent **transportation** needs.

Medical **transportation** services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several providers operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** companies. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with getting in and out of vehicles and providing support during travel. However, these services often come with a higher cost than other options, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The Breast Cancer Score for Lake Clear reflects the challenges inherent in its location. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing medical care is a significant factor, potentially impacting patients who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services further complicate matters.

The distance to Plattsburgh, with its more comprehensive medical facilities, adds to the burden. The time commitment for travel, especially when considering the potential for delays due to weather or traffic, can be stressful for patients undergoing treatment. The need for frequent appointments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits, underscores the importance of reliable and convenient **transportation**.

For someone considering **moving to Lake Clear**, understanding these **transportation** and **healthcare access** dynamics is crucial. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the distance to medical facilities necessitates careful planning. Prospective residents should consider their **transportation** options, insurance coverage, and support networks.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the potential impact on a patient's well-being. The stress of travel, the financial burden of **transportation**, and the logistical challenges of coordinating appointments can affect a patient's ability to focus on their treatment and recovery. The score also takes into account the importance of support systems. Having family, friends, or community resources to assist with **transportation** can significantly improve a patient's experience.

The score also emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Patients should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** options, including the ATS routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services. They should also establish a relationship with their healthcare providers and discuss their **transportation** needs.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of advocating for improved **healthcare access** in rural communities. Supporting initiatives that expand public transit, increase the availability of ride-sharing services, and promote telemedicine can help improve the lives of breast cancer patients in Lake Clear and similar areas.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated as **transportation** options and healthcare services evolve. The score serves as a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing breast cancer patients in Lake Clear. It is a call to action, encouraging individuals, healthcare providers, and community organizations to work together to improve **healthcare access** and support the well-being of those affected by breast cancer.

The future of **healthcare access** in Lake Clear may involve the development of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. Increased investment in public **transportation**, including expanding ATS routes and improving their frequency, would also be beneficial. Furthermore, promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and **transportation** services could create more integrated and patient-centered solutions.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 12945 highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of **healthcare access** in rural communities. By understanding the **transportation** landscape, advocating for improved services, and supporting patients, we can help ensure that individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis in Lake Clear receive the care and support they deserve. This is particularly important for those **moving to Lake Clear**, as they need to understand the realities of **healthcare access** as part of their decision-making process.