13619, Carthage, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13619, Carthage, New York is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.84 percent of residents in 13619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carthage Area Hospital, Inc with a distance of 1.45 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carthage, NY (ZIP Code 13619)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, demands more than just a doctor's appointment. It necessitates a comprehensive understanding of transportation options, travel times, and the accessibility of medical facilities. This "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 13619, Carthage, NY, aims to illuminate the landscape of healthcare access, considering the unique needs of individuals facing this challenging disease. It is a crucial factor when considering moving to Carthage.

Carthage, nestled in the heart of the North Country, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The town's relatively rural setting influences the availability and efficiency of various transportation modes. This analysis prioritizes the practical realities of getting to and from essential medical appointments, considering the potential impact on patient well-being and treatment adherence.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The major thoroughfare serving Carthage is NY-26, which provides a direct route to Watertown, the nearest city with significant medical facilities. Driving time to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, a crucial destination for specialized breast cancer care, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another critical artery is NY-3, connecting Carthage to the Adirondack region and, importantly, to the larger medical centers in Syracuse. The drive to Syracuse, home to Upstate Medical University and other specialized cancer centers, can take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, primarily utilizing NY-3 and I-81. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning, especially considering the potential for fatigue and the need for frequent medical appointments.

Local roads within Carthage, such as State Street and James Street, offer convenient access to local clinics and primary care physicians. However, their limitations become apparent when considering specialized cancer treatment, which often requires travel outside of the immediate vicinity.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Carthage are limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides bus service within Jefferson County, but its routes and schedules are not ideally suited for frequent trips to Watertown or Syracuse for specialized cancer care. While JCT offers some routes that might connect to Watertown, the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers could significantly increase travel time and add to the physical and emotional strain on patients.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. JCT vehicles are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules can still pose challenges for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or require frequent bathroom breaks.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Watertown and Syracuse. However, their presence in Carthage is less consistent, and availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and potentially expensive, making it a less-than-ideal solution for many patients.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized approach, catering specifically to the needs of patients requiring transport to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, which could pose challenges for urgent or unexpected medical needs.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in Carthage, the journey to healthcare is often a complex one. The need for specialized care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments, often necessitates travel to Watertown or Syracuse. The availability of transportation, the duration of travel, and the associated costs can significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and effective treatment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 13619 highlights the importance of considering transportation factors when evaluating healthcare access. While Carthage offers local medical services, the reliance on travel to larger medical centers underscores the need for careful planning and resourcefulness.

**Considerations for Patients and Families**

Patients and their families should proactively explore all available transportation options. This includes understanding the schedules and routes of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the options for medical transportation.

Networking with local support groups and cancer organizations can provide valuable insights into transportation assistance programs and resources. These organizations often offer transportation support, financial aid, and peer support, helping patients navigate the challenges of accessing healthcare.

Prioritizing appointments and planning ahead can minimize the stress associated with travel. Coordinating appointments to consolidate trips and utilizing online resources for scheduling and communication can streamline the process.

**Enhancing Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Carthage and similar rural communities requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation services, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and increasing the availability of medical transportation options.

Telemedicine and telehealth services can play a crucial role in reducing the need for travel, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely and receive some forms of care from the comfort of their homes.

Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and transportation providers can create a more integrated and patient-centered approach to healthcare access. This collaboration can help address the unique transportation challenges faced by individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment.

**Conclusion: A Score of Awareness**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 13619 is not a numerical grade, but rather a call to awareness. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of breast cancer. By understanding the transportation landscape, patients, families, and healthcare providers can work together to ensure that all residents of Carthage have access to the care they need, when they need it. When moving to Carthage, this score should be a key consideration.