13859, Wells Bridge, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13859, Wells Bridge, New York is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 13859 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.67 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wells Bridge, NY (ZIP Code 13859)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis like breast cancer, is a complex one. It extends beyond the medical procedures themselves, encompassing the logistics of *transportation*, the availability of specialists, and the overall *healthcare access* within a given community. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" for residents of Wells Bridge, NY (ZIP Code 13859), considering the practicalities of getting to and from crucial appointments. This is especially pertinent for individuals *moving to Wells Bridge*, seeking to understand the resources available.

Wells Bridge, a small hamlet in Otsego County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. Its rural setting necessitates a careful examination of *transportation* options, as the nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in more populated areas. The score is not a measure of medical quality, but rather a gauge of the ease with which residents can reach the necessary care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of *transportation* for residents of Wells Bridge is likely the personal vehicle. The drive times to major healthcare facilities are a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The closest hospital with a dedicated cancer center is A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta, NY. The drive to Oneonta is approximately 20 miles, taking around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. The primary route involves navigating New York State Route 7 (NY-7), a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours.

Further afield, the Bassett Healthcare Network in Cooperstown, NY, offers comprehensive cancer care. This journey is about 35 miles, taking roughly 45 minutes to an hour via NY-7 and NY-28. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. The longer drive time necessitates careful planning for appointments, accounting for potential delays.

For more specialized treatments or clinical trials, patients might need to travel to larger cities like Syracuse or Albany. The drive to Syracuse, approximately 100 miles, can take up to two hours via Interstate 88 (I-88) and I-81. Albany, about 120 miles away, involves a similar drive time, primarily utilizing I-88. These longer distances underscore the importance of reliable *transportation* and the potential for increased travel fatigue.

**Public Transit Options**

Public *transportation* options in Wells Bridge are limited. Otsego County does offer a public transit system, the Otsego County Public Transportation (OCPT), but its routes and schedules are geared towards serving the county's larger towns and cities. OCPT operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service may be available for medical appointments, but it requires careful planning and coordination.

The OCPT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts, to ensure that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance booking can pose challenges for patients needing frequent appointments, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-share services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban environments. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients relying on ride-sharing should plan ahead and consider booking rides well in advance.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including those that provide non-emergency medical *transportation* (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and luggage.

The availability and cost of medical *transportation* services vary. Patients should research different providers, comparing prices, insurance coverage, and the types of vehicles offered. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of NEMT, particularly for patients who cannot drive themselves or use public *transportation* due to their medical condition.

**Breast Cancer Score Considerations**

The Breast Cancer Score for Wells Bridge, NY, reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its rural location. The score is not a single number but a composite of factors. The primary concern is the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for long drive times to reach specialized cancer care. Limited public *transportation* options and the variable availability of ride-share services further complicate the situation.

The availability of medical *transportation* services provides a crucial alternative, but their cost and insurance coverage can be barriers. The score also considers the importance of support systems, such as family, friends, and community resources, in providing assistance with *transportation* and other needs.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for Wells Bridge, several strategies can be considered. Increased investment in public *transportation*, including expanded routes and more frequent service, would significantly benefit residents. Collaboration between healthcare providers and medical *transportation* services to streamline patient scheduling and reduce *transportation* costs is also crucial.

Community outreach programs can educate residents about available resources, including financial assistance for *transportation* and support groups for cancer patients. Telemedicine, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can reduce the need for travel for certain appointments. For those *moving to Wells Bridge*, the score should be a consideration.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for Wells Bridge highlights the importance of *transportation* and *healthcare access* in a rural setting. While the community faces challenges, the availability of medical *transportation* services and the potential for improvements in public *transportation* offer hope. By understanding the complexities of navigating the healthcare system, residents can make informed decisions and advocate for better resources. The score serves as a reminder that the journey to healthcare extends far beyond the doctor's office, encompassing the practicalities of getting there.