13656, La Fargeville, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13656, La Fargeville, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.36 percent of residents in 13656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 10.26 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in La Fargeville, NY (ZIP Code 13656)

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a vital consideration for anyone residing in or considering a move to La Fargeville, New York (ZIP Code 13656). This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare access within and around this rural community, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking timely and effective care.

The very fabric of healthcare access is interwoven with the threads of transportation. In La Fargeville, a landscape of rolling hills and vast agricultural lands, the availability of efficient and reliable transportation significantly impacts the ability to receive necessary medical services. This analysis delves into the specifics of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a clear picture of the practical realities for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For those who drive, the primary arteries connecting La Fargeville to healthcare facilities are the state highways and county roads. The most direct route to Watertown, the closest city with comprehensive medical services, involves navigating **New York State Route 12**. This scenic route, however, can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common to the region. The drive to Watertown, home to Samaritan Medical Center, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, covering approximately 25 miles.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **County Route 193**, a less direct but potentially less congested option, connecting to Route 12. The condition of these secondary roads can vary, impacting travel times and the overall driving experience. Regular maintenance and snow removal are crucial factors in ensuring safe passage, especially for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Further afield, **Interstate 81** offers access to Syracuse and other major medical centers. However, this journey is significantly longer, with a drive time of approximately two hours. While I-81 provides a high-speed route, the distance and potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, must be factored into the equation.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in La Fargeville are limited, which poses a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) provides some service within Jefferson County, but routes and schedules may not directly serve La Fargeville or offer frequent connections to Watertown's medical facilities.

Information on specific bus routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features should be obtained directly from JCTS. It is crucial to ascertain the availability of accessible vehicles, ramps, and other accommodations for individuals with mobility impairments. The success of public transit in this context hinges on its ability to bridge the gap between the rural community and the essential healthcare services located in urban centers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the Watertown area but are not consistently present in La Fargeville. This variability means that relying on these services for medical appointments is unreliable. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a more reliable alternative for individuals requiring assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. However, these services may require advance booking and can be costly.

**Specific Medical Transport Brands to Consider:**

* **Watertown Ambulance Service:** Provides ambulance and medical transport services within Jefferson County.
* **Carthage Area Rescue Squad:** Offers similar services, potentially covering areas near La Fargeville.
* **Private medical transport companies:** Search online for companies that provide services in the area.

**Healthcare Access and the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for La Fargeville reflects the interplay of transportation challenges and the availability of healthcare services. While Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown offers comprehensive breast cancer screening and treatment options, the distance and transportation limitations can create significant barriers.

The score is influenced by factors such as drive times, the reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation. The score also considers the availability of local primary care physicians who can provide referrals and initial screenings.

**Moving to La Fargeville: A Healthcare Perspective**

For individuals considering a move to La Fargeville, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. Prospective residents should research the availability of local primary care physicians, the distance to specialized medical facilities, and the feasibility of various transportation options.

Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, particularly those requiring regular medical appointments or specialized care, should carefully evaluate the transportation challenges. Planning for healthcare access should be an integral part of the relocation process, ensuring that the chosen location aligns with their medical needs.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for La Fargeville underscores the need for improved transportation solutions to enhance healthcare access. This could involve expanding public transit services, incentivizing ride-sharing in rural areas, or providing subsidies for medical transportation.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of La Fargeville, regardless of their mobility or financial resources, have equitable access to the life-saving care they need. This necessitates a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations to address the transportation challenges and improve the overall healthcare landscape in this rural community.