13648, Harrisville, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13648, Harrisville, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.39 percent of residents in 13648 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 12.01 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrisville (ZIP Code 13648)

Considering a move to the charming town of Harrisville, New York (ZIP Code 13648)? Beyond the idyllic landscapes and close-knit community, it’s crucial to assess healthcare access, especially concerning a critical diagnosis like breast cancer. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for Harrisville, evaluating transportation options to medical facilities, a vital component of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Harrisville, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack region, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, can complicate access to specialized medical care. This score considers the journey to potential breast cancer treatment centers, factoring in drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing availability.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

The primary mode of transportation in Harrisville is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers significantly influences the Breast Cancer Score. The Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, roughly a 90-minute drive, offers a range of cancer services. The journey primarily involves navigating the scenic Route 3, a two-lane highway that winds through the Adirondack Park. Traffic is generally light, but winter conditions can significantly impact travel times, necessitating careful planning and potentially extending the commute.

Alternatively, driving towards Watertown, approximately a 1-hour and 45-minute trip, provides access to the Samaritan Medical Center. This route utilizes Route 3 and then transitions to Route 26 and I-81. While the interstate offers faster travel, potential congestion near Watertown could add to the commute. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the importance of proactive planning and considering potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Harrisville are extremely limited, which heavily impacts the Breast Cancer Score. The area lacks a robust public transit system, and the availability of buses is infrequent. The lack of readily available public transit options can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The closest potential public transit option is the Adirondack Trailways bus, which has limited routes that pass through nearby towns. However, these routes are not direct to medical facilities and require significant transfers, making them impractical for regular medical appointments, especially for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The lack of ADA-compliant features on available public transit further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in rural areas like Harrisville. While they might be available, their reliability and affordability are questionable. The distance to the nearest cities with robust ride-sharing availability makes them a less viable option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available but primarily for urgent situations or patients with specific medical needs. These services are often expensive and may require prior authorization. Their availability for routine appointments is limited, and they are not a sustainable solution for regular cancer treatment.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Considering the factors above, the Breast Cancer Score for Harrisville (ZIP Code 13648) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural setting. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score.

The score is directly affected by the drive times to comprehensive cancer centers. While the journeys are feasible, the distance necessitates careful planning, accounting for weather conditions and potential delays. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly reduces the score, impacting those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The limited presence of ride-sharing services and the reliance on potentially expensive medical transport further contribute to the overall score.

**Implications for Moving to Harrisville**

For individuals considering moving to Harrisville, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. Those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk should prioritize this factor.

Before making the move, it is crucial to:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a personal vehicle and consider the potential costs of vehicle maintenance and fuel.
* **Research Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that your health insurance plan covers treatment at the nearest cancer centers and covers transportation costs if possible.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Investigate the availability of local support groups and resources for cancer patients, which may offer assistance with transportation.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Have a plan for emergencies, including access to medical transport services and understanding the protocols for accessing care.

**Conclusion**

Harrisville offers a unique lifestyle, but its rural location presents challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer treatment. The Breast Cancer Score underscores the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. While the drive times to cancer centers are manageable, the limited public transit and ride-sharing options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles. Prospective residents should prioritize assessing their transportation needs and researching available resources to ensure timely access to essential healthcare services. The beauty of Harrisville can be enjoyed, but with a keen awareness of the healthcare landscape.