13630, De Kalb Junction, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13630, De Kalb Junction, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 13630 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gouverneur Hospital with a distance of 14.03 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 13630

The journey to quality healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. It extends far beyond the walls of a clinic or hospital, encompassing the complexities of **transportation**, **healthcare access**, and the practical realities of daily life. This analysis explores the landscape of these factors for residents of ZIP code 13630, De Kalb Junction, New York, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those seeking care. Considering a move to this community? Understanding these nuances is crucial.

De Kalb Junction, a rural community nestled in St. Lawrence County, presents unique considerations for **healthcare access**. The availability of specialized medical services, including those crucial for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is often geographically limited. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of the **transportation** options available to navigate the distance. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers these elements, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and support systems in place.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary thoroughfare for residents of 13630 is State Route 11, a vital artery connecting De Kalb Junction to surrounding towns and cities. Driving to the nearest major healthcare facilities, such as Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, requires a drive of approximately 20 minutes, a relatively manageable commute. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. The absence of robust public **transportation** options means that those without a car, or unable to drive, face considerable barriers.

Further afield, specialized cancer care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. Syracuse, home to Upstate University Hospital and other comprehensive cancer centers, is roughly a 2-hour drive via I-81 North. This longer commute presents significant challenges, including increased travel costs, potential fatigue, and the need for overnight stays during treatment. The ability to navigate these distances, especially during periods of illness or treatment side effects, becomes a critical factor in **healthcare access**.

The secondary roads, such as County Route 17 and County Route 19, offer alternative routes, but often involve slower speeds and may be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common to the region. These roads are less likely to be cleared as quickly as the primary highways, potentially impacting **transportation** reliability. The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the variability of these travel times, factoring in potential delays and the impact on patient well-being.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**

The public **transportation** landscape in 13630 is limited. St. Lawrence County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are restricted. The routes primarily serve larger towns and cities, with limited service to De Kalb Junction and the surrounding rural areas. Detailed route information, including bus numbers and schedules, should be readily available on the St. Lawrence County website.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible vehicles and services. However, the extent to which these provisions are implemented and the availability of accessible routes in 13630 need careful evaluation. Inquiries should be made directly with the St. Lawrence County transit authority to confirm ADA compliance and the availability of accessible **transportation** options.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to illness or treatment. This limits **healthcare access** and may necessitate reliance on family, friends, or other support networks for **transportation**. The "Breast Cancer Score" reflects the impact of these limitations on the overall patient experience.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

The rise of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has offered an alternative **transportation** option in many areas. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like De Kalb Junction is often limited. The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services should be investigated. Even if available, the cost of these services, particularly for longer distances to regional cancer centers, can be a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another potential solution. These services, often provided by private companies or non-profit organizations, can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. Researching the availability of medical **transportation** providers in the area, such as those offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles, is essential. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) or local ambulance services may offer non-emergency medical **transportation**.

The "Breast Cancer Score" acknowledges the potential role of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, but also recognizes the potential limitations, including cost, availability, and the need for advance booking.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" – A Holistic View:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a holistic assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation**. It also factors in the proximity of local healthcare providers, the availability of specialized cancer care, and the support systems available to patients.

A high score indicates a more favorable environment for **healthcare access**, with shorter travel times, readily available **transportation** options, and a strong network of support. A lower score reflects greater challenges, including longer commutes, limited public transit, and potential financial burdens associated with **transportation**.

For residents of 13630, the "Breast Cancer Score" will likely reflect the challenges inherent in a rural environment. While the proximity to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options create significant barriers for some. The need to travel to regional cancer centers for specialized care further compounds these challenges.

**Moving to De Kalb Junction and Healthcare Access:**

Individuals considering a move to De Kalb Junction, or any rural community, should proactively research the local healthcare infrastructure. This includes identifying the nearest healthcare providers, assessing the availability of specialized services, and thoroughly evaluating the **transportation** options available. Contacting local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and the St. Lawrence County health department can provide valuable insights.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical value; it is a call to action. It underscores the importance of community support, patient advocacy, and the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** in rural areas. It emphasizes the importance of planning, preparation, and the proactive engagement of patients and their families in navigating the complexities of breast cancer care. The **transportation** landscape is a critical component of this equation.