13659, Lorraine, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13659, Lorraine, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.61 percent of residents in 13659 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 14.65 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lorraine, NY (ZIP Code 13659)

The decision to move to a new community, especially when considering healthcare access, is a significant one. This assessment, focusing on ZIP code 13659 (Lorraine, New York), provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on accessing breast cancer healthcare. The aim is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those seeking diagnosis, treatment, and support in this rural area. This will help inform potential residents about their healthcare access.

Lorraine, nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means that transportation options are limited, and distances to specialized medical facilities can be substantial. This is particularly relevant for breast cancer patients who require regular appointments for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape for those considering a move to Lorraine.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Artery**

The primary means of transportation in Lorraine is by personal vehicle. The central thoroughfare is New York State Route 11, a major north-south artery that connects Lorraine to larger towns and cities. Driving south on Route 11 provides access to Watertown, the county seat, where the Samaritan Medical Center is located. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. Expect a drive time of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Further afield, Syracuse, a larger metropolitan area, houses more specialized cancer centers like Upstate University Hospital. Reaching Syracuse involves traveling south on Route 11 and then connecting to Interstate 81. The drive to Syracuse is considerably longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, particularly for frequent appointments.

The local roads, such as County Route 15 and County Route 16, offer alternative routes, but they are often less direct and may be subject to seasonal closures due to snow and ice. These roads are also not well-maintained and are not ideal for those who are mobility-impaired.

**Public Transit: A Limited Resource**

Public transportation options in Lorraine are extremely limited. Jefferson County operates a public transit system, but its services are primarily focused on Watertown and surrounding areas. There is no direct public transit route from Lorraine to Watertown or Syracuse. The lack of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

The Jefferson County Transit system does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and lack of routes to major healthcare facilities severely restrict its usefulness for breast cancer patients. The absence of convenient public transportation underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Lorraine is less reliable. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times may be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for patients. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the availability of NEMT services in Lorraine should be confirmed with local providers.

**Medical Transportation Options and Brands**

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Watertown and surrounding areas. These services include:

* **Ambu-Trans:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **Care Ride:** Offers transportation services for medical appointments and other healthcare needs.
* **First Transit:** Operates various transportation services, including some medical transportation programs.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. While the Jefferson County Transit system offers ADA-accessible buses, the limited routes make them less useful. When considering medical transportation services, inquire about the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other accommodations.

**Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Healthcare Access**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Lorraine, NY (13659) reflects the transportation challenges and opportunities for accessing breast cancer healthcare. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and travel time to healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The presence and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and accessibility of medical transportation providers.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of accessible transportation options.

**Challenges and Opportunities: Moving to Lorraine with Breast Cancer**

The primary challenge for individuals with breast cancer in Lorraine is the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation. The limited public transit options and the potentially unreliable ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to accessing timely and consistent healthcare. The long drive times to specialized cancer centers in Syracuse can add to the stress and burden of treatment.

However, there are also opportunities. The proximity to Watertown and the availability of medical transportation services offer some solutions. Careful planning, coordination with healthcare providers, and exploring all available transportation options are essential. Individuals considering a move to Lorraine should thoroughly research the availability of medical transportation services and assess their ability to manage the transportation demands of their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Informed Decisions for Healthcare Access**

This "Breast Cancer Score" provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in Lorraine, NY (13659). The information presented highlights the importance of transportation in accessing breast cancer care and underscores the need for careful consideration and planning. For those considering moving to Lorraine, a comprehensive assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of local resources is crucial. This will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can access the care they need. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is essential for a successful healthcare journey.