13651, Henderson Harbor, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13651, Henderson Harbor, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.27 percent of residents in 13651 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 16.09 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Henderson Harbor (ZIP Code 13651)

The crisp air of Henderson Harbor, nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, offers a tranquil escape. But beneath the idyllic surface lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move: access to healthcare, particularly for a disease as pervasive as breast cancer. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access within and from ZIP code 13651, aiming to provide a clear picture for potential residents.

Our analysis focuses on the critical journey from Henderson Harbor to essential breast cancer services: screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The score considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive portrait of the challenges and opportunities in navigating this vital aspect of healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: A Highway to Healthcare**

For many residents of Henderson Harbor, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The major artery connecting the area to comprehensive healthcare facilities is **New York State Route 3**. Heading east, Route 3 offers a direct route to Watertown, the closest city with a significant concentration of medical services.

The drive to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, a crucial hub for breast cancer care, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This travel time is generally manageable, but during winter months, with snow and ice, the journey can be significantly prolonged, impacting timely access to appointments and treatments.

Further afield, the drive to Syracuse, offering a broader range of specialized care, including advanced treatment options and clinical trials, involves a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, primarily via **Interstate 81**. This longer drive necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments or requiring urgent care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in the Henderson Harbor area is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides some service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve Watertown and surrounding areas.

Currently, there are no direct JCT routes that originate in Henderson Harbor and provide direct access to major medical facilities. Individuals relying on public transportation would likely need to arrange multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and the potential for logistical difficulties. The lack of ADA-accessible features on all routes could further impede access for individuals with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Watertown area, offering a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability in Henderson Harbor itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing requires careful planning and the potential for longer wait times.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, provide a crucial lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation options. These services are often equipped to handle medical emergencies and transport patients to and from appointments. However, they can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Henderson Harbor reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Watertown provides a reasonable level of access to basic services, the limitations in public transportation and the potential for prolonged travel times to more specialized facilities in Syracuse pose significant challenges.

The lack of consistent ride-sharing availability and the cost of specialized medical transport further complicate the situation, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or mobility issues. The winter months add another layer of complexity, potentially delaying access to critical care due to weather-related travel difficulties.

**Moving to Henderson Harbor: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering a move to Henderson Harbor, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with a strong reliance on public transportation or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the challenges associated with accessing breast cancer services.

Individuals with a personal vehicle and the ability to drive to Watertown or Syracuse will find the area more accessible. However, even for those with personal transportation, the potential for travel delays, especially during the winter, should be factored into their decision-making process.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

Prospective residents should research the specific breast cancer services available at Samaritan Medical Center and other facilities in the region. They should also investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services in the area.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential impact of weather conditions on their ability to travel to medical appointments. Planning for alternative transportation options, such as relying on family or friends, is advisable.

**Conclusion: A Score of Moderation**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Henderson Harbor, based on the factors discussed, lands in a moderate range. While the proximity to Watertown offers a degree of healthcare access, the limitations in public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for travel delays create significant challenges.

For those prioritizing healthcare access, especially for breast cancer services, a careful evaluation of these factors is crucial. Understanding the realities of transportation and healthcare access will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring that their choice to move to Henderson Harbor aligns with their healthcare needs. The beauty of Henderson Harbor should be balanced with a clear understanding of the practicalities of accessing vital healthcare services, enabling a truly informed decision about relocating to this charming community.