13605, Adams, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13605, Adams, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.27 percent of residents in 13605 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 12.56 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Adams, NY (ZIP Code 13605)

The sun dips below the horizon, painting the fields surrounding Adams, New York, in hues of orange and purple. This rural landscape, characterized by rolling hills and the gentle flow of the Sandy Creek, offers a sense of tranquility. Yet, for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the serenity can be shattered by the daunting task of navigating healthcare access. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the complexities of transportation and healthcare options within and around ZIP Code 13605, providing a clearer picture for residents and those considering moving to Adams.

Our focus is on understanding the practicalities of getting to essential breast cancer care, from initial screenings to advanced treatments. This involves assessing the availability and efficiency of various transportation options, considering factors like drive times, public transit accessibility, and the presence of ride-sharing services. The goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey, especially when facing a challenging diagnosis.

The primary healthcare hub for residents of Adams is the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately 20 miles away. This drive, the cornerstone of healthcare access for many, is generally undertaken via New York State Route 11, a major north-south thoroughfare. Depending on traffic and weather conditions, the journey typically takes between 25 and 35 minutes. This relatively short drive time offers a degree of convenience, but it also highlights the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care.

Alternatively, the route can be taken on County Route 75, which merges onto State Route 3, a slightly longer but often less congested option, especially during peak hours. This route might add a few minutes to the overall travel time, but it can provide a more relaxed driving experience, particularly beneficial for those undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, becomes a crucial factor. Snow and ice can significantly impact drive times and safety, necessitating careful planning and consideration of weather forecasts.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) operates a bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent and do not directly serve Adams. The JCT primarily focuses on connecting Watertown and surrounding towns. While some routes might pass through areas near Adams, they do not offer a convenient or reliable option for accessing the Samaritan Medical Center. Furthermore, ADA accessibility features on these buses are not consistently available across all routes, posing a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Adams is less certain. Availability fluctuates depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable, particularly for early morning or late-evening appointments. This creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or family support for transportation.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer a more structured solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility challenges, offering door-to-door service and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, availability and cost vary between providers, and advance booking is essential. Researching and contacting these services in advance is crucial for those requiring this type of transportation.

Beyond the Samaritan Medical Center, other healthcare facilities in the region offer breast cancer-related services. The Carthage Area Hospital, approximately 30 miles from Adams, provides some outpatient services. However, the drive time and the availability of specific services should be carefully considered. The Syracuse area, approximately 80 miles away, offers a wider range of specialized cancer centers, including Upstate University Hospital and Crouse Hospital. These facilities provide advanced treatment options, including radiation therapy and complex surgeries. However, the significantly longer drive time necessitates careful planning, potentially including overnight stays and the consideration of transportation alternatives.

For those considering moving to Adams, the availability and reliability of transportation are critical factors to weigh. The dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit highlight the need for careful planning. Individuals with existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments, should carefully assess the feasibility of accessing healthcare services. The proximity to Watertown and the availability of medical transport services offer some reassurance, but the challenges of rural transportation remain.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Adams, NY (ZIP Code 13605) reflects a mixed picture. While the relatively short drive to Watertown provides a degree of healthcare access, the limitations of public transit and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related disruptions underscore the importance of careful planning and the exploration of all available transportation options. For those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding these realities is crucial for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring timely access to essential care. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions, advocate for their needs, and navigate the healthcare journey with greater confidence.