14425, Farmington, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14425, Farmington, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 14425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is F F Thompson Hospital with a distance of 7.67 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Farmington, NY (ZIP Code 14425)

Choosing a new home involves countless considerations, from school districts to property taxes. For those prioritizing healthcare access, particularly concerning a diagnosis like breast cancer, a thorough understanding of local resources is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in Farmington, NY (ZIP code 14425), to assess its "Breast Cancer Score," a metric reflecting the ease of accessing crucial diagnostic and treatment services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents.

Farmington, a charming town nestled in Ontario County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. However, its healthcare access, especially for specialized services, is largely dependent on effective transportation. For individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis, timely access to appointments, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical consultations is vital. The ability to navigate the local transportation network becomes a critical factor in their overall well-being and treatment journey.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Care**

The primary mode of transportation in Farmington is the personal vehicle. The convenience of a car is undeniable, but drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial consideration. The nearest major medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer care are located in Canandaigua and Rochester.

Traveling to Thompson Health in Canandaigua, a facility offering diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, and some chemotherapy services, typically involves a drive along County Road 41 and NY-96. The distance is approximately 10 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, the drive should take around 15-20 minutes. This relatively short commute provides a good starting point for the Breast Cancer Score, offering relatively quick access to essential services.

For more specialized treatment, including radiation therapy and access to a wider range of oncologists and surgical specialists, residents often need to travel to Rochester. The most direct route involves taking NY-96 north to I-490 West. Depending on traffic, the drive to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) or Rochester General Hospital can range from 30 to 45 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 25-30 miles. Rush hour, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend these drive times, potentially impacting appointment schedules and patient comfort.

Navigating these highways and roads requires attention. Winter weather, common in upstate New York, can present significant challenges, potentially increasing travel times and necessitating careful planning. The ability to maintain a vehicle and manage the costs associated with fuel, insurance, and maintenance also impacts healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Farmington are limited. The Ontario County Transportation System (OCTS) provides bus services within the county. However, these routes are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly serve major medical facilities in a timely manner.

OCTS Route 1, for example, travels along NY-96, but its frequency and schedule might not align with the needs of patients requiring regular appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. While OCTS strives to provide accessible services, the limited route network and potential for lengthy travel times pose challenges.

For individuals without personal vehicles, relying solely on public transit for cancer treatment can be incredibly difficult. The Breast Cancer Score reflects this deficiency, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Farmington area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transport of America provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility challenges and can transport patients to and from appointments. The cost of medical transport is typically higher than ride-sharing, but it can be a valuable option for those who need assistance or lack other transportation alternatives.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the role of ride-sharing and medical transport, recognizing their potential to improve healthcare access. However, the cost and availability of these services remain significant factors.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

Evaluating the transportation landscape in Farmington, NY (14425) reveals a mixed picture. The proximity to Thompson Health in Canandaigua offers relatively convenient access to some services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for travel to Rochester, the limited public transit options, and the fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges.

The Breast Cancer Score for Farmington, NY (14425) is therefore moderate. While the location offers access to healthcare, the transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration. Individuals contemplating a move to Farmington should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and explore all available options.

**Considerations for Moving to Farmington**

For individuals considering moving to Farmington, or for those already residing there, proactive planning is essential. Before making a move, research the specific healthcare needs and the availability of services. Assess the feasibility of driving to appointments, and explore the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Consider the proximity to family or friends who could provide transportation assistance. Explore the possibility of carpooling or joining support groups that may offer transportation support.

The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of careful planning and the need for individuals to advocate for their transportation needs. By understanding the transportation landscape and exploring all available options, residents can navigate the healthcare system with greater ease and ensure access to the crucial care they deserve.