14536, Portageville, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14536, Portageville, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.31 percent of residents in 14536 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 12.94 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Portageville, NY (ZIP Code 14536)

Considering a move to the charming village of Portageville, New York (ZIP code 14536)? Beyond the picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, it’s vital to assess the practicalities of accessing essential healthcare services, particularly for women concerned about breast cancer. This analysis provides a detailed "Breast Cancer Score" for Portageville, focusing on transportation options to key medical facilities. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the understanding that timely diagnosis and treatment are critical in breast cancer management. The ability to readily reach medical specialists, diagnostic centers, and treatment facilities significantly impacts patient outcomes and peace of mind. This analysis will consider the practical realities of *transportation* in and around Portageville, directly impacting *healthcare access* for potential residents.

Portageville, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare. Its relative remoteness means relying on personal vehicles is often the primary mode of *transportation*. However, understanding the alternatives is crucial for residents without cars or those facing mobility limitations.

**Drive Times and Highways: The Backbone of Access**

The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in the larger towns and cities surrounding Portageville. The drive to these facilities dictates the initial "Breast Cancer Score."

**Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NY):** This highly regarded hospital is a significant destination for specialized cancer care. The most direct route involves taking NY-436 East, which connects to I-390 North. The drive, approximately 60 miles, typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route, while straightforward, can experience congestion during peak commuting hours, particularly around Rochester.

**Jones Memorial Hospital (Wellsville, NY):** A closer option, Jones Memorial Hospital, offers a range of medical services, including cancer care. The drive involves taking NY-436 West to NY-19 South. The distance is approximately 35 miles, with a drive time of around 45 minutes to 1 hour. This route offers a more manageable commute, making it a potentially preferred choice for routine checkups and some treatments.

**Other Considerations:** The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, potentially extending travel times and necessitating the use of four-wheel drive vehicles. Residents should be prepared for potential delays and factor them into their healthcare planning.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Portageville are extremely limited. The rural nature of the area means that comprehensive bus networks are not readily available. This severely impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for individuals who do not drive or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

**Regional Transit Service (RTS):** While RTS provides some services in the broader region, routes directly serving Portageville are scarce. Checking the RTS website (www.myrts.com) for specific routes and schedules is crucial. The website provides detailed information on routes, fares, and accessibility features.

**ADA Compliance:** For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible public *transportation* is paramount. RTS strives to provide accessible buses and services. However, the limited route coverage in Portageville means relying on public transit for medical appointments is often impractical.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* providers offer alternative solutions, albeit with limitations.

**Uber and Lyft:** These ride-sharing services may operate in Portageville, but their availability is often inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments is risky, as wait times and availability can vary.

**Medical Transportation Services:** Several specialized medical *transportation* companies cater to patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door *transportation* and may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Researching local medical *transportation* providers and understanding their service areas, costs, and booking procedures is essential.

**Specific Brands:** Researching specific brands like "CareRide" or "MedRide" in the area is essential. These services often require advance booking, and their availability may vary.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for Portageville (14536)**

Based on the above analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Portageville, NY, is moderately positive, but with significant caveats. The availability of *transportation* options to access *healthcare* is limited.

**Strengths:**

* Relatively manageable drive times to hospitals in Wellsville and Rochester.
* Presence of ride-sharing services, albeit with potential limitations.
* Potential access to medical *transportation* services.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public *transportation* options.
* Reliance on personal vehicles, which can be problematic for those without cars or with mobility issues.
* Potential for weather-related delays during winter months.
* Inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

* **Assess Personal *Transportation* Needs:** Carefully consider your *transportation* capabilities and limitations.
* **Research Medical *Transportation* Options:** Identify and contact local medical *transportation* providers to understand their services and costs.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule medical appointments well in advance and factor in potential travel time and delays.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Connect with local support groups and community organizations that may offer assistance with *transportation* or other healthcare-related needs.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** While *moving to Portageville* offers certain advantages, evaluate the trade-offs between location and *healthcare access*.

**Conclusion:**

While Portageville offers a charming lifestyle, prospective residents should carefully evaluate the *transportation* challenges associated with accessing *healthcare*, particularly for those concerned about breast cancer. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure timely access to essential medical services. By understanding the available options and preparing for potential challenges, residents can mitigate the impact of *transportation* limitations and prioritize their health and well-being.