13641, Fishers Landing, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13641, Fishers Landing, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13641 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 6.19 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fishers Landing (ZIP Code 13641)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is more than just a medical appointment. It encompasses the complex dance of transportation, accessibility, and the emotional toll of navigating a system while facing a serious illness. This "Breast Cancer Score" for Fishers Landing (ZIP Code 13641) delves into the realities of healthcare access, focusing specifically on the transportation landscape, and aims to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering moving to this area.

Fishers Landing, nestled along the St. Lawrence River in northern New York, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with the often-limited public transportation options, requires a careful evaluation of the available resources. This analysis will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the transportation landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer care.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving Times and Road Conditions**

For many residents of Fishers Landing, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel along several key roadways. The primary artery connecting Fishers Landing to the broader region is **New York State Route 37**, a vital thoroughfare that winds its way along the river.

Heading east on Route 37, the drive to Massena, a town with some medical facilities, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Further east, the city of Potsdam, offering more specialized care, is about a 45-minute to an hour drive. This journey also involves Route 37, with a portion of the trip on **New York State Route 56**.

Westward travel towards Ogdensburg, another potential destination for healthcare, typically takes around 30-40 minutes via Route 37. This route offers scenic views of the St. Lawrence River but can be subject to delays during peak seasons. The journey to Watertown, a larger city with a more extensive network of healthcare providers, involves a longer drive, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. This trip necessitates taking Route 37, and then connecting to **Interstate 81**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Fishers Landing and the surrounding areas are limited. The **St. Lawrence County Public Transit** provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules may not adequately address the needs of individuals seeking regular breast cancer care. Service frequency is often low, and routes may not directly connect to all medical facilities.

The availability of accessible transportation, including buses with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities, is crucial. Inquiring about the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of the available public transit options is a critical step. Confirming the availability of accessible vehicles and their schedules is essential for those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent and subject to driver availability. Relying on these services for regular appointments, especially in a rural area, can be unreliable. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Ambulette Services** and **First Transit** specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, it's essential to research the availability of these services in Fishers Landing and to understand their pricing structure and scheduling requirements.

**The Emotional and Practical Realities**

The transportation challenges discussed above can significantly impact a patient's experience with breast cancer care. The stress of arranging transportation, the time spent traveling, and the potential financial burden can add to the emotional and physical toll of the illness. This highlights the importance of proactive planning and exploring all available options.

The need for regular appointments, including diagnostic tests, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up visits, makes reliable transportation a necessity. Patients may also require assistance with errands, such as picking up prescriptions and groceries. This underscores the importance of building a strong support network.

**Moving to Fishers Landing: Considering Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Fishers Landing, the availability of healthcare access should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the area offers a tranquil environment and a close-knit community, the transportation limitations must be carefully considered.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should thoroughly research the healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas. They should assess the transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Fishers Landing reveals a complex picture of healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful setting, the transportation landscape presents challenges for those seeking breast cancer care. Enhancing public transit options, expanding ride-sharing availability, and promoting medical transport services are crucial steps towards improving healthcare access for residents.

By understanding the realities of transportation and healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. This analysis serves as a starting point for residents and those considering moving to the area, encouraging proactive planning and advocating for improved healthcare access in Fishers Landing. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough; ensuring accessible and reliable transportation should be a priority for the community.