14466, Hemlock, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14466, Hemlock, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.80 percent of residents in 14466 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is F F Thompson Hospital with a distance of 16.11 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 14466

The quaint village of Hemlock, nestled in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, carries a certain charm. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the idyllic facade may crack. This analysis unveils the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 14466, assessing the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking breast cancer care, ultimately contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease of access to potentially life-saving treatment. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of the reality of **healthcare access** for residents. This information is especially pertinent for anyone **moving to Hemlock**, needing to understand the practicalities of accessing medical care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Hemlock, and indeed much of rural America, is the automobile. Navigating to specialized breast cancer care often necessitates travel outside the immediate community. The primary route for accessing major medical centers in Rochester or Buffalo involves the use of the Interstate 390 (I-390). Driving south on I-390 from Hemlock offers a relatively direct route to Rochester, a city offering a range of specialized cancer centers. The drive to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a leading facility, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, accessing Buffalo requires a longer journey. Heading north on I-390 to the New York State Thruway (I-90) and then west, the drive to Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, a renowned cancer treatment facility, can consume approximately two hours, excluding potential traffic delays. This longer commute significantly impacts the overall **transportation** burden, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments or facing debilitating side effects. The time spent traveling becomes a significant factor in the patient’s quality of life and the ability to adhere to treatment schedules.

Alternative routes exist, primarily utilizing state routes such as Route 15 and Route 20A. However, these roads are often less direct and can involve navigating through smaller towns and villages, potentially adding to travel time. These routes may also be subject to seasonal variations, such as snow and ice during the winter months, further complicating travel.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 14466 are extremely limited. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) provides some service in the surrounding areas, but its reach into Hemlock is minimal. There are no direct bus routes serving Hemlock. The nearest bus stops are located in larger towns such as Honeoye or Livonia, requiring residents to arrange their own **transportation** to reach these points. This lack of public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access** for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The absence of accessible public transit is a major contributing factor to a lower Breast Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the RGRTA's services, even where available, may not always be fully ADA-compliant, potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility impairments or undergoing cancer treatment. The availability of accessible vehicles and the ease of navigating bus stops and transfer points are crucial considerations for patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Hemlock is less consistent. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability and demand. Booking a ride-share from Hemlock can sometimes be challenging, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at inconvenient times. The reliability of ride-sharing as a **transportation** option for regular medical appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for patients needing assistance. Companies like CareRide and LifeLine Ambulance provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, however, can be costly and may require advance booking. The cost of medical transport, coupled with the potential for long wait times, adds another layer of complexity to accessing care. The availability of these services is critical, but their affordability and accessibility are key factors in determining their impact on the Breast Cancer Score.

The journey to and from medical appointments can be emotionally and physically taxing. The stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, dealing with traffic, and managing the physical demands of travel can exacerbate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. The availability of convenient and affordable **transportation** options can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better health outcomes.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 14466 will reflect the combined impact of all these factors. The limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a lower score. The score will be further impacted by the distance to specialized cancer centers and the potential for travel-related delays.

The ideal scenario for **healthcare access** involves a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transit, with routes specifically designed to serve rural communities, would be a significant step forward. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies could provide subsidized **transportation** options for patients. Expanding the availability of medical transport services and exploring innovative solutions, such as volunteer driver programs, could also improve access.

For individuals **moving to Hemlock** or considering a move, understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access is crucial. Thorough research, including assessing the availability of **transportation** options, is essential. Contacting local healthcare providers and inquiring about patient support services, including **transportation** assistance, is also highly recommended.

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 14466 will ultimately serve as a valuable tool for assessing the overall **healthcare access** landscape. It will highlight the need for community-based solutions and advocate for policies that prioritize the needs of individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The score will be a call to action, encouraging stakeholders to work collaboratively to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need, regardless of their location.