13832, Plymouth, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13832, Plymouth, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.43 percent of residents in 13832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chenango Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plymouth, NY (ZIP Code 13832)

Plymouth, New York, a charming hamlet nestled in Chenango County, presents a unique set of circumstances when considering access to vital healthcare services, particularly for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 13832, examines the transportation landscape and healthcare infrastructure, providing a comprehensive overview for residents, potential newcomers, and those seeking to understand the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing care. The score aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Plymouth or already living there.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the transportation options available. The ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably is paramount, especially when facing the urgency of a potential breast cancer diagnosis. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the transportation landscape.

For residents of Plymouth, the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The geographical layout of the area necessitates reliance on roads and highways for accessing healthcare. The closest significant healthcare hubs are located in Norwich, approximately 15 miles away, and Binghamton, about 40 miles distant. The drive to Norwich, home to UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, primarily utilizing New York State Route 12. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak traffic hours or inclement weather, impacting healthcare access.

The journey to Binghamton, offering a wider range of specialized care, including comprehensive cancer centers, involves navigating a more extensive network of roads. The most common route involves taking New York State Route 12 north to Interstate 88 west, then merging onto Interstate 81 south. This drive, averaging 45-60 minutes, is significantly affected by traffic, particularly around Binghamton. The potential for delays, especially during winter months, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access. This underscores the importance of considering the reliability of personal transportation when evaluating the feasibility of moving to Plymouth.

Public transportation options in Plymouth are limited. Chenango County Public Transportation offers a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. While this service provides a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, it's essential to recognize its limitations. The service operates on a schedule, and the travel time to medical appointments can be significantly extended due to the need for scheduling and potential wait times. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges. Detailed information regarding route numbers, schedules, and ADA features can be obtained directly from Chenango County Public Transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and availability are variable. The rural nature of Plymouth can impact the response times and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty poses a challenge for individuals who depend on these services for transportation to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation can provide door-to-door service, ensuring safe and comfortable transport to appointments. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation due to medical conditions. Researching the availability and cost of medical transport providers, such as First Transit or Modivcare, is crucial for understanding the options available.

The healthcare infrastructure within Plymouth itself is limited. The presence of primary care physicians and other healthcare providers is essential, but specialized services, such as oncology and radiology, are typically located in larger cities like Norwich or Binghamton. This necessitates travel, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The availability of local pharmacies and support services is also a crucial factor in the overall healthcare landscape.

When assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for Plymouth, the proximity to specialized cancer centers is a critical factor. The availability of comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, treatment options, and supportive care, is paramount. The drive times to these centers, as well as the reliability of transportation options, directly impact the score. The presence of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and other resources within the community also contribute to the overall score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the affordability of healthcare. The cost of transportation, the availability of insurance coverage, and the potential for out-of-pocket expenses all play a role in determining the accessibility of care. Understanding the financial implications of accessing healthcare is essential for residents and potential newcomers.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 13832 will be influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the reliability of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, the affordability of care, and the presence of local support resources all contribute to the final assessment. This detailed analysis provides a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Plymouth, offering valuable insights for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers.

The transportation infrastructure, or lack thereof, is a key consideration for anyone moving to Plymouth. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all impact the ability to access healthcare. Understanding these realities is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating these factors and promoting a more informed approach to healthcare access in Plymouth, NY.