13696, West Stockholm, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13696, West Stockholm, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 4.92 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13696**

The quaint village of West Stockholm, nestled in the heart of New York’s St. Lawrence County, offers a tranquil existence. Its rolling hills and close-knit community are a balm to the soul. Yet, when considering a move, particularly for those prioritizing healthcare access, a crucial factor emerges: the commute. Specifically, for residents of ZIP code 13696, the journey to comprehensive breast cancer care requires careful examination. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of essential services, considering transportation options and their impact on timely care.

For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, prompt and efficient access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities is paramount. Delays in care can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, understanding the transportation landscape is vital. This analysis focuses on commute times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. It aims to provide a clear picture for anyone contemplating a move to West Stockholm, offering insights into the realities of healthcare access in this serene corner of the state.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of 13696 is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The journey to healthcare facilities begins with the roads. The most direct route to the larger medical centers in the region involves navigating a network of highways and local roads.

A trip to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, the nearest major facility, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route primarily utilizes State Route 68, a well-maintained road that connects West Stockholm to the larger towns. The road is generally clear, offering a relatively smooth commute.

For more specialized care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Syracuse or Albany. These journeys, however, are significantly longer. A trip to Syracuse, requiring access to Upstate University Hospital or Crouse Hospital, necessitates a drive of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, primarily utilizing State Route 68, US-11, and Interstate 81. The drive to Albany, home to the Albany Medical Center, is a similar distance, involving Interstate 87 and State Route 30.

These extended drive times highlight a critical consideration. While the immediate surroundings of West Stockholm offer a peaceful lifestyle, access to specialized breast cancer care requires a substantial time commitment. This is especially crucial for individuals undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, where regular travel can become a significant burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in the area are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. St. Lawrence County Public Transportation operates a bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to medical facilities.

The primary bus route serving the West Stockholm area is Route 1, which travels between Canton and Potsdam. However, this route does not directly connect to major hospitals. It is essential to check the St. Lawrence County Public Transportation website for the most up-to-date schedule and route information.

Furthermore, the bus service may not be equipped with ADA-compliant features on all vehicles. Individuals with mobility limitations should confirm the availability of accessible transportation before relying on public transit. The limited frequency of bus service and the lack of direct routes to medical facilities make public transit a less viable option for many seeking breast cancer care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to and from medical appointments. Some reputable medical transport services operating in the area include:

* **Ambu-Lift:** This company provides wheelchair-accessible transportation and stretcher services.
* **Care Ride:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation for various medical appointments.
* **First Transit:** Provides specialized transportation services, including medical transport.

These services can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or rely on public transit. However, it is essential to factor in the cost of these services, which can vary depending on the distance and the type of transportation required. Booking in advance is also recommended to ensure availability.

**Assessing the Score: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 13696 reflects a mixed picture. While the immediate surroundings offer a tranquil environment, healthcare access presents significant challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care results in extended commute times. Public transit options are limited and may not be suitable for frequent medical appointments. Ride-sharing services and medical transport companies offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering a move to West Stockholm, it is crucial to weigh the benefits of the peaceful lifestyle against the realities of healthcare access. Those with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk should carefully evaluate their transportation options and the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and comprehensive care. Planning for long drives, understanding the limitations of public transit, and researching medical transport services are essential steps in ensuring access to the necessary medical support.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a definitive metric, but a framework for understanding the complex relationship between location and healthcare access. It is a reminder that moving to a new community requires a thorough assessment of all aspects of life, including the vital importance of transportation and the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The serene beauty of West Stockholm must be balanced with a realistic understanding of the journey to healthcare, especially when facing the challenges of breast cancer.