12950, Lewis, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12950, Lewis, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.89 percent of residents in 12950 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 6.08 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 12950

The Adirondack region, encompassing ZIP code 12950 (Lewis, New York), offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rural living. However, this idyllic setting presents specific challenges when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, crucial for navigating the healthcare journey, and assesses the 'Breast Cancer Score' for residents of Lewis, considering the practical realities of getting to essential appointments.

For individuals contemplating moving to Lewis or currently residing there, understanding the transportation options is paramount. A diagnosis of breast cancer demands frequent medical visits: diagnostic imaging, consultations with oncologists and surgeons, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and post-treatment follow-ups. The ability to reliably and comfortably reach these appointments significantly impacts the overall patient experience and, potentially, treatment outcomes.

The primary mode of transportation in Lewis is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Driving is often the most direct route to healthcare facilities. The nearest major medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Plattsburgh (approximately 30 miles east) and Burlington, Vermont (around 60 miles east, across Lake Champlain). From Lewis, the most common route to Plattsburgh involves traveling east on **New York State Route 9 (NY-9)**, a two-lane highway that winds through the Adirondack landscape. Traffic is generally light, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Alternatively, accessing Plattsburgh might involve taking **County Route 20 (CR-20)**, which merges onto **NY-22** before reaching **NY-9**. This route offers a slightly different perspective of the region, but is subject to the same weather-related challenges. The drive to Plattsburgh typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Reaching Burlington, Vermont, requires a longer journey. This involves taking **NY-9** north to the ferry crossing at Essex, New York, and then crossing Lake Champlain to Charlotte, Vermont. From Charlotte, one would continue on **US Route 7 (US-7)** to Burlington. The ferry crossing itself adds travel time, and the overall trip can take upwards of two hours, excluding wait times.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Lewis. The **Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT)** offers limited services within Clinton County, which may include routes that touch upon the outskirts of Lewis. However, these routes are infrequent and may not align with the specific needs of a patient undergoing cancer treatment.

The CCPT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and wheelchair lifts. However, the limited route coverage and scheduling constraints make them a less-than-ideal solution for many patients. For those reliant on public transit, careful planning and coordination are essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Lewis is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Companies like **MedStar** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are typically pre-booked and can offer door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for patients with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatments that leave them fatigued. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other transportation options, and prior authorization may be required by insurance providers.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Lewis, NY (12950) reflects the challenges and limitations of the transportation landscape. While the beauty and tranquility of the region are undeniable, the distance to comprehensive healthcare facilities significantly impacts healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score.

The score considers factors such as drive times, the availability of public transit, the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall cost and convenience of each option. The score is also influenced by the potential impact of weather conditions, which can significantly impede travel during the winter months.

For individuals considering moving to Lewis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Patients who do not drive or have limited mobility will face the most significant challenges. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of medical transportation services, the potential costs, and the need for advance booking.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' also highlights the importance of community support. Neighbors, friends, and family members can play a vital role in providing transportation assistance, offering rides to appointments, and helping with errands. Organizations like the **American Cancer Society** and local support groups may also offer transportation assistance programs or resources.

The healthcare access landscape in Lewis, like many rural areas, demands proactive planning and resourcefulness. While the natural beauty of the region is a major draw, prospective residents and current inhabitants must carefully evaluate the transportation options and the potential impact on their healthcare journey.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' serves as a tool for understanding the realities of healthcare access in Lewis. It underscores the need for careful consideration of transportation needs, the importance of community support, and the potential benefits of utilizing medical transportation services. By understanding the challenges and proactively planning for them, residents of Lewis can navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.