13687, South Colton, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13687, South Colton, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.80 percent of residents in 13687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 13.32 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in South Colton, NY (ZIP Code 13687)**

The crisp air of the Adirondacks whispers through South Colton, New York, a community nestled in the embrace of the St. Regis River. For those considering a move to this serene locale, particularly those with a heightened awareness of healthcare needs, understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount. This analysis, focusing on breast cancer care, aims to illuminate the transportation realities and healthcare options available in and around ZIP Code 13687, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

South Colton's relative remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are situated in Potsdam and Canton, necessitating transportation for appointments, screenings, and treatments. The journey to these crucial destinations dictates the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing potentially life-saving care.

The primary artery connecting South Colton to the wider world is State Route 56. This road, a lifeline for residents, stretches north and south, offering the most direct route to Potsdam. The drive to Canton involves a slightly more circuitous route, utilizing State Route 56 and then connecting to State Route 68. Drive times, however, are subject to seasonal variations, including the potential for snow and ice during the winter months.

**Driving Times: A Crucial Factor**

Driving to Potsdam, home to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, typically takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This hospital provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and outpatient care, essential components of breast cancer screening and treatment. Canton, with its St. Lawrence Health System – Canton-Potsdam Hospital, is a slightly longer drive, averaging 30 to 40 minutes. These drive times are critical, shaping the Breast Cancer Score by determining the speed and convenience of accessing medical care.

The journey to larger medical centers, such as those in Syracuse or Burlington, Vermont, which offer specialized oncology services, requires significantly more travel time. This extended travel can add stress to an already challenging situation.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in South Colton are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system provides bus service in the region, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and services may not directly connect South Colton to Potsdam or Canton. This lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The buses that do operate may have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps and accessible seating, but the infrequency of service makes them a less reliable option for regular medical appointments. Thoroughly investigating the current routes and schedules is essential before making any decisions about moving to South Colton.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may operate in the Potsdam and Canton areas, but their availability in South Colton is less certain. The lack of readily available ride-sharing can further diminish the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack family or friends to provide transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services, often operated by private companies, offer a more reliable option for those needing assistance with transportation. However, these services may require advance booking and can incur significant costs, impacting the overall Breast Cancer Score.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transportation companies serve the North Country region. While specific brands may vary, it's essential to research local providers. These services often include:

* **Ambulance Services:** Primarily for emergency situations, but some companies offer non-emergency transport.
* **Wheelchair Transportation:** Specialized vehicles equipped to transport individuals with mobility limitations.
* **Stretcher Transport:** For patients who cannot sit upright.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT):** A common option for routine appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Multi-Faceted Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for South Colton, ZIP Code 13687, is not simply a number but a composite assessment of various factors. The drive times to Potsdam and Canton are relatively reasonable, offering access to essential medical services. However, the limited public transportation, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs of medical transportation services contribute to a lower overall score.

**The Impact of Moving to South Colton**

For individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk, moving to South Colton requires careful consideration. The distance to specialized oncology services and the limitations in transportation options necessitate proactive planning. Establishing a network of support, including family, friends, or community organizations, is crucial.

**Enhancing the Breast Cancer Score**

Several strategies can help improve the Breast Cancer Score for residents of South Colton.

* **Early Detection:** Regular screenings and self-exams are critical.
* **Planning:** Scheduling appointments in advance and coordinating transportation.
* **Support Networks:** Building a support system of family, friends, or community groups.
* **Research:** Investigating local transportation options, including medical transport services.
* **Advocacy:** Supporting efforts to improve healthcare access in the region.

**Conclusion: A Realistic Perspective**

South Colton offers a tranquil lifestyle, but prospective residents must acknowledge the realities of healthcare access. While the drive times to Potsdam and Canton are manageable, the limitations in public transportation and the potential costs of medical transportation services require careful consideration. A thorough understanding of these factors, along with proactive planning and a robust support network, can help individuals navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain a high quality of life in this beautiful Adirondack community. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, is not just a numerical value but a call for awareness, planning, and community support.