12975, Port Kent, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 12975, Port Kent, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.58 percent of residents in 12975 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 23.42 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Port Kent, NY (ZIP Code 12975)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer, is a critical aspect of life in Port Kent, New York (ZIP Code 12975). This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare access within and surrounding this scenic, lakeside community. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture for residents and those considering moving to Port Kent, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation. It considers the availability, reliability, and accessibility of transportation options to reach essential healthcare services, specifically focusing on breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Factors such as drive times, public transit frequency, ADA accessibility, and the presence of specialized medical transport are all weighed. The ultimate goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed choices regarding their health journey.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

For many in Port Kent, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The availability of a car significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are crucial.

The University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, approximately 15 miles from Port Kent, is a major healthcare hub. The drive typically involves taking New York State Route 9 (US 9) south. Depending on traffic, this journey can take between 20 and 30 minutes. US 9 is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly extend travel times.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, including oncologists and surgeons, the drive to CVPH is often the first step. From there, referrals may lead to other facilities.

Another option for specialized care is the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont. This trip, while offering more comprehensive services, is considerably longer, involving a drive of approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The route involves taking US 9 south, then crossing into Vermont and connecting to Interstate 89 (I-89) north. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Gaps**

Public transportation options in Port Kent and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or cannot access a personal vehicle.

The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) provides some bus service in the area. However, routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service primarily focuses on serving the city of Plattsburgh. While CCPT may offer routes that extend to areas near Port Kent, direct service within the community is unlikely.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration. CCPT does offer accessible vehicles, but the limited route frequency and potential for long wait times can pose significant barriers for individuals with mobility challenges.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those who rely on it. This is particularly relevant for individuals undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue or other side effects that make driving difficult or unsafe.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Void**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Port Kent is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on demand and driver availability, potentially leading to longer wait times or higher fares. This can be particularly challenging for scheduled appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide transportation in vehicles equipped with medical equipment and staffed by trained personnel. However, these services often come at a higher cost and require prior arrangements.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that makes driving unsafe. However, the cost and the need for advance booking are important considerations.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Port Kent reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to CVPH offers relatively convenient access to initial healthcare services, the limitations in transportation options create significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the infrequent public transit and the potential variability of ride-sharing services, highlights the need for careful planning and consideration. Individuals considering moving to Port Kent should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and the availability of reliable options.

The lack of robust public transportation and the potential for limited ride-sharing availability can particularly impact individuals with mobility challenges or those undergoing treatment. The cost and availability of medical transport services must also be factored into the equation.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Port Kent emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and understanding the available transportation options. While the community benefits from its proximity to CVPH, the limitations in public transit and the potential variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful consideration.

Individuals considering moving to Port Kent should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and the availability of reliable options. Those already residing in the area should explore all available resources, including medical transport services, to ensure they can access the healthcare they need.

The journey through breast cancer is challenging, and access to timely and reliable transportation is a critical component of the overall experience. By understanding the landscape of transportation options and healthcare access in Port Kent, individuals can navigate this journey with greater confidence and peace of mind.