13647, Hannawa Falls, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13647, Hannawa Falls, New York is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.30 percent of residents in 13647 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 4.63 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hannawa Falls (ZIP Code 13647)

Considering a move to the charming hamlet of Hannawa Falls, New York (ZIP code 13647), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to vital medical facilities. This score reflects the reality of navigating the North Country, where distances and weather conditions can significantly impact healthcare access. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive picture of your transportation landscape.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment. It considers the availability of transportation options, the distance to key medical facilities, and the potential challenges posed by the region's geography and climate. The goal is to provide prospective residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. This information is crucial for anyone, but especially for those with a personal or family history of breast cancer, or those seeking preventative care.

Hannawa Falls, nestled in the heart of St. Lawrence County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural location presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers equipped for comprehensive breast cancer care are in Potsdam and Canton, necessitating reliance on various transportation methods. Understanding these options is paramount to maintaining timely access to screenings, diagnoses, and treatment.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Hannawa Falls. The convenience of personal vehicles is undeniable, yet several factors influence drive times. From Hannawa Falls, the journey to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, the closest facility with a dedicated breast cancer center, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, covering approximately 10 miles. The primary route utilizes State Route 56, a well-maintained road.

However, winter weather can significantly impact travel. Snow and ice are common, especially during the long winter months. Drive times can double or even triple during severe weather events, and road closures are possible. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of alternative routes.

For more specialized care, such as advanced imaging or surgical oncology, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Syracuse or Albany. These trips involve significantly longer drive times. The drive to Syracuse, utilizing the I-81, can take approximately 3 hours, while Albany, reachable via the Adirondack Northway (I-87), is about a 4-hour drive. These longer distances emphasize the importance of reliable transportation and the need to factor in potential delays.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Hannawa Falls are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transportation system (SLCPT) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially for areas outside of Potsdam and Canton. The availability of public transportation to medical facilities is a critical factor in healthcare access.

The SLCPT does provide some routes that serve Potsdam and Canton, but the frequency of these routes is not ideal for medical appointments. Riders must carefully plan their trips and be prepared for potential wait times. Furthermore, the ADA accessibility of these buses should be confirmed by contacting the SLCPT directly. The absence of frequent and reliable public transportation can pose a significant barrier for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Hannawa Falls area. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not advisable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and MedStar. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

However, medical transportation services often require advance booking and may not be available on short notice. The cost of these services can also be a factor, as they are typically not covered by insurance. This highlights the importance of planning and budgeting for transportation costs.

**The Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for Hannawa Falls (13647) can be characterized as "Moderate with Caveats." While the proximity to Canton-Potsdam Hospital provides relatively quick access to basic breast cancer services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

The long distances to specialized care centers in Syracuse or Albany further complicate healthcare access. The availability of medical transportation services offers a viable alternative, but the need for advance booking and potential costs must be considered. The impact of seasonal weather conditions adds another layer of complexity.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Prospective residents of Hannawa Falls should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals with a personal or family history of breast cancer, or those requiring frequent medical appointments, should prioritize access to reliable transportation.

Consider the following:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** A personal vehicle is essential for navigating the area.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that your health insurance covers transportation costs for medical appointments.
* **Pre-Planning:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance and arrange transportation accordingly.
* **Medical Transportation:** Investigate and pre-book medical transportation services as needed.
* **Winter Preparedness:** Be prepared for winter driving conditions and have a plan for alternative transportation during severe weather.

The Breast Cancer Score for Hannawa Falls is not a deterrent, but a call for informed decision-making. By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, residents can successfully navigate the healthcare system and maintain access to vital breast cancer services. Moving to Hannawa Falls requires thoughtful consideration of all aspects of life, including healthcare access.