13744, Castle Creek, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13744, Castle Creek, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.41 percent of residents in 13744 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Binghamton Health Center with a distance of 9.16 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Castle Creek (ZIP Code 13744)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex tapestry woven with medical appointments, emotional resilience, and the practicalities of transportation. In the serene landscapes of Castle Creek, New York (ZIP Code 13744), understanding this journey is paramount. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the transportation landscape, focusing on healthcare access and its implications for those considering moving to or residing in this community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative assessment, reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access breast cancer-related healthcare services. It considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This analysis offers a comprehensive view of the transportation challenges and opportunities within the context of breast cancer care.

Castle Creek, nestled in the heart of Broome County, presents a unique transportation profile. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The region is characterized by its rural nature, with limited public transit options. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without their own transportation or facing mobility challenges.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery connecting Castle Creek to major healthcare providers is New York State Route 11. This road, though scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending drive times. Reaching the major medical centers in Binghamton, approximately 15-20 miles away, requires navigating Route 11.

For those seeking specialized breast cancer care, such as surgical oncology or radiation therapy, the drive to UHS Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City is a common destination. This journey, primarily via Route 11, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. The presence of the Southern Tier Expressway (Interstate 86) offers an alternative route, though it requires a short drive on local roads to access the on-ramp.

The drive to Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton, another significant healthcare provider, also involves Route 11. The travel time, generally 20-30 minutes, is influenced by traffic conditions and the specific location within Castle Creek. The condition of these roadways, particularly during winter months, can further impact travel times and safety, potentially creating barriers to timely healthcare access.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Castle Creek are limited. Broome County Transit (BCT) provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and frequency are not extensive in the Castle Creek area. The availability of public transit to major healthcare facilities, such as UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital, is restricted.

BCT Route 10, which travels between Binghamton and Endicott, might offer some limited access for residents near Route 11. However, the frequency of this route is not ideal for medical appointments, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers can add to the burden of accessing healthcare.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. BCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Binghamton area. However, their availability in Castle Creek itself may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. Reliance on ride-sharing can also be expensive, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transport services offer a vital lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transportation. Companies like CareRide and MedStar provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require advance booking and can incur significant costs. The availability of these services is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score."

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Castle Creek:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Castle Creek reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to major healthcare facilities are reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges. For individuals considering moving to Castle Creek, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or who anticipate needing regular healthcare appointments, careful consideration of transportation options is essential.

The absence of robust public transit and the potential for limited ride-sharing availability can create barriers to healthcare access. Individuals without personal vehicles may face significant difficulties in attending appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing support services. The financial implications of relying on medical transport or ride-sharing services must also be considered.

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals moving to Castle Creek should research healthcare providers, assess transportation options, and explore available support services. This proactive approach can help mitigate the transportation challenges and ensure timely access to essential breast cancer care.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Castle Creek emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape. While the community offers scenic beauty and a close-knit atmosphere, the limitations in transportation options can impact healthcare access. For those facing a breast cancer diagnosis or considering a move to the area, careful evaluation of these factors is crucial.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, expanding public transportation routes, or promoting volunteer driver programs. These efforts can help create a more equitable and accessible healthcare environment for all residents, including those battling breast cancer. The journey to healthcare is a shared responsibility, and in Castle Creek, ensuring accessible transportation is a vital step in supporting those on this journey.