13685, Sackets Harbor, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13685, Sackets Harbor, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 13685 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 9.90 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sackets Harbor, NY (ZIP Code 13685)**

The tranquility of Sackets Harbor, New York, a village steeped in history along the shores of Lake Ontario, offers a compelling allure for those seeking a peaceful life. Yet, the decision to relocate, especially for individuals with existing health concerns, demands a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This analysis focuses on breast cancer care within ZIP code 13685, evaluating transportation options to determine a Breast Cancer Score, a metric reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing vital medical services. This score will help prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Sackets Harbor, understand the realities of healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is proximity to medical facilities. In this context, the primary destination for comprehensive breast cancer care is Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, NY. This hospital offers a full spectrum of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The drive from Sackets Harbor to Samaritan Medical Center is approximately 20 miles, primarily via NY-3 and US-11.

Driving times fluctuate based on traffic and weather conditions. Under ideal circumstances, the journey takes roughly 25-30 minutes. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, particularly during the harsh winters common to the region, travel times can extend significantly. Road closures, snowstorms, and icy conditions are frequent occurrences, potentially adding considerable delays. This variable nature of transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as timely access to care is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to Watertown from Sackets Harbor. The JCT does not have a direct route between Sackets Harbor and Samaritan Medical Center. Therefore, relying on public transit for breast cancer appointments is impractical. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is limited, potentially creating significant barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. This lack of viable public transportation negatively affects the Breast Cancer Score, emphasizing the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Watertown area, including Sackets Harbor. However, their availability is not consistent, and wait times can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather. The cost of ride-sharing for a round trip to Watertown can be substantial, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. The variability and cost of ride-sharing further contribute to a lower Breast Cancer Score, highlighting the challenges of relying on these services for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of medical transport is a positive factor, but the cost and scheduling requirements still impact the Breast Cancer Score, acknowledging the added complexity and expense associated with accessing care.

The Breast Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of local healthcare providers within Sackets Harbor. While the village may have primary care physicians, the specialized services required for breast cancer care are centralized in Watertown. This necessitates travel for mammograms, biopsies, consultations with oncologists, and treatments. The lack of local specialized care reduces the Breast Cancer Score, emphasizing the need to travel for comprehensive breast cancer services.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Sackets Harbor, NY (13685) is moderately low. The primary challenges are the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and scheduling requirements of medical transportation. The distance to Samaritan Medical Center, while manageable under ideal conditions, is subject to delays due to weather and traffic. The lack of specialized breast cancer services within the village further complicates healthcare access.

For individuals considering a move to Sackets Harbor, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is essential. Prospective residents should factor in the potential for increased travel time and associated costs when planning their healthcare needs. They should also explore options for support, such as establishing relationships with local transportation providers or considering the feasibility of relocating closer to medical facilities.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static value; it is a dynamic assessment that can be improved through community initiatives. Increased investment in public transportation, particularly routes connecting Sackets Harbor to Watertown, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services and subsidizing medical transportation for low-income individuals would also improve the score. Furthermore, supporting local healthcare providers to expand their services and facilitate telemedicine consultations would enhance the overall healthcare landscape.

Moving to Sackets Harbor offers a unique lifestyle, but it is crucial to balance the allure of the community with a realistic assessment of healthcare access. Understanding the transportation challenges and proactively planning for healthcare needs will ensure a smoother transition and support the well-being of individuals managing or at risk for breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and make the best choices for their future. The journey to healthcare access requires careful consideration of all available transportation options, from the reliable drive along NY-3 to the less predictable ride-sharing services, all of which ultimately shape the experience of accessing essential medical care.