13639, Fine, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13639, Fine, New York is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13639 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13639

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as formidable as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not simply about the medical expertise available; it's about the accessibility of that expertise. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 13639, explores the crucial element of transportation, the lifeline connecting residents to potentially life-saving care. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those facing this challenging diagnosis.

ZIP Code 13639, encompassing the town of Fine, New York, presents a unique landscape. Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, its beauty is undeniable, but its remoteness poses significant transportation hurdles. The very nature of the terrain, with its winding roads and limited public transit, shapes the healthcare journey for residents. Understanding these challenges is critical for those already grappling with the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer.

The primary arteries of transportation in this region are State Route 3 and State Route 30. These roads, while scenic, can be treacherous, especially during the harsh winters common to the area. Drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are a significant consideration. The Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, approximately 70 miles away, represents a potential destination for specialized treatment. The drive, largely on Route 3, can take upwards of two hours under ideal conditions. Winter weather can easily double or triple that time, making it a daunting prospect for frequent appointments.

Further afield, the University Hospital at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, roughly 150 miles distant, offers a wider array of specialized services. This journey, primarily via Route 3 and I-81, can stretch to three hours or more, even without factoring in traffic. The distance and travel time become even more critical when considering the need for chemotherapy, radiation, or post-surgical follow-up appointments. The physical and emotional strain of these long commutes can significantly impact a patient's well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

Public transportation options are limited. The Adirondack Trailways bus service, while providing some connectivity, offers infrequent service and does not directly serve Fine. The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access. This creates a significant disadvantage for those without a car, those unable to drive due to their condition or other factors, or those with limited financial resources to maintain a vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Fine. Their presence is often sporadic, and their availability is heavily dependent on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments in this area is, therefore, highly unreliable. The potential for delays or cancellations could jeopardize timely access to care, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Rural Transportation and local ambulance services may provide this service. However, availability and cost can vary. Confirming the specifics of these services, including their coverage area, insurance acceptance, and ADA accessibility features, is crucial.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a critical role in ensuring accessible transportation. While public transit options are limited, any available services must adhere to ADA regulations, providing accessible vehicles and ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities. This is particularly important for breast cancer patients who may experience mobility limitations due to surgery, treatment side effects, or other complications.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 13639, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The remoteness of the location, the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the unreliable ride-sharing options all contribute to a complex transportation landscape. The drive times to specialized cancer care facilities are significant, potentially impacting the patient's ability to receive timely and consistent treatment.

For individuals considering moving to Fine, New York, or for current residents navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Proximity to family, friends, or support networks who can assist with transportation becomes paramount. Exploring all available options, from medical transportation services to potential financial assistance for travel expenses, is crucial.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the realities faced by individuals in this community. It highlights the need for greater investment in accessible transportation solutions, including expanded public transit options, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and readily available medical transport. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential to ensure that residents of ZIP Code 13639 have equal access to the life-saving care they deserve.