13902, Binghamton, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 13902, Binghamton, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.12 percent of residents in 13902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.72 miles from the area.

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## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Binghamton's 13902

Considering a move to Binghamton, New York, specifically ZIP code 13902? Or perhaps you're a current resident seeking to understand your healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer screening and treatment? This write-up provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on transportation and its impact on accessing crucial healthcare services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a vivid picture of your journey to and from appointments.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a formal medical metric. It’s an evaluation of the *ease* of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare within 13902, considering transportation as the primary factor. Factors like appointment availability, insurance coverage, and individual health status are beyond this scope. This analysis will help you understand the practical realities of healthcare access in your daily life.

**The Score:**

This assessment will use a simple scoring system:

* **Excellent:** Easy and efficient access, minimal transportation barriers.
* **Good:** Relatively accessible, with some potential challenges.
* **Fair:** Moderate challenges, requiring planning and potentially longer travel times.
* **Poor:** Significant transportation barriers, potentially limiting access.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 13902 often revolves around personal vehicles. The major arteries for travel are Interstate 81 (I-81), Interstate 86 (I-86), and the more local Route 17, which merges with I-86. The speed and efficiency of your commute will be heavily influenced by traffic.

For breast cancer screening and treatment, most residents in 13902 will likely seek services at UHS Wilson Medical Center, located a few miles away. Driving from various points within 13902 to UHS Wilson Medical Center will typically take 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The route will likely involve utilizing Route 17 or I-86, depending on your specific location within the zip code.

For appointments at the Guthrie Clinic, another major healthcare provider, the drive time may be slightly longer, potentially extending to 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Again, the primary routes will be I-81, I-86, or Route 17.

**Score: Good.** Driving offers relatively quick and convenient access to essential healthcare facilities, assuming you own a vehicle and can navigate the roadways.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) system serves Binghamton and the surrounding areas. While BCT provides a crucial service, its impact on healthcare access, especially for those requiring regular appointments, is mixed.

Several BCT routes operate within 13902, providing access to various parts of the city. However, direct routes to major medical centers might not always be available. Passengers may need to transfer, adding time and complexity to their journeys.

For example, reaching UHS Wilson Medical Center from 13902 might involve taking Route 12, and transferring to another route, which will depend on your exact location within the zip code. The total travel time could easily exceed 45 minutes to an hour, depending on transfer times and traffic.

BCT does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating challenges for those with appointments outside of standard business hours.

**Score: Fair.** Public transit offers a viable option, but it is often time-consuming and requires careful planning. Accessibility features are in place, but limited service frequency can be a barrier.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Binghamton, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical appointments.

For individuals with specific medical needs, medical transportation services are available. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers. Several local providers offer these services, including private ambulance companies and specialized medical transport services.

These options can be invaluable for those unable to drive or use public transit. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

**Score: Fair to Good.** Ride-sharing provides a convenient but potentially expensive option. Medical transportation services are available, offering specialized support, but the cost and availability must be considered.

**Specific Considerations and Recommendations:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The closer you live to a major medical center, the better your access. Consider this when searching for housing in 13902.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** When scheduling appointments, inquire about transportation assistance programs offered by the healthcare provider.
* **Financial Assistance:** Explore financial assistance programs to help cover transportation costs, especially for those with limited incomes.
* **Accessibility Needs:** If you require ADA-accessible transportation, confirm the availability of accessible options with both public transit and ride-sharing services.
* **Planning is Key:** Regardless of your chosen mode of transportation, planning is essential. Factor in travel time, potential delays, and transfer times, especially when using public transit.

**The Overall Score:**

Based on the analysis, the Breast Cancer Score for transportation access in 13902 is **Fair**. While driving offers relatively good access, public transit presents significant time constraints, and ride-sharing/medical transport options can be costly.

**Moving to Binghamton and Healthcare Access:**

If you're considering moving to Binghamton, especially if you have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk, carefully assess the transportation options in your chosen neighborhood. Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of alternative transportation.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare access in 13902 requires careful consideration of transportation options. While driving offers the most convenient access, public transit and alternative transportation solutions provide valuable, albeit sometimes challenging, alternatives. By understanding the realities of transportation in this area, you can proactively plan for your healthcare needs and ensure you receive the care you deserve. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for your assessment, emphasizing the importance of transportation in the journey to and from healthcare appointments.