14589, Williamson, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14589, Williamson, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.08 percent of residents in 14589 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rochester General Hospital with a distance of 20.58 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamson, NY (ZIP Code 14589)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, becomes a critical factor in patient outcomes. In the quaint, rural community of Williamson, New York (ZIP Code 14589), the accessibility of vital medical services is largely dictated by the available transportation options. This analysis, a 'Breast Cancer Score' of sorts, examines the transportation landscape to gauge healthcare access for residents, particularly those seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. It's a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Williamson, especially those prioritizing healthcare access.

The primary challenge in Williamson stems from its relative isolation. While the town offers a sense of tranquility, it lacks the immediate proximity to comprehensive medical facilities often found in more urban environments. This reality places a premium on reliable transportation. The 'Breast Cancer Score' considers this, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highways**

For many residents, the automobile is the cornerstone of healthcare access. The primary artery for leaving Williamson is Route 104, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Route 104 provides access to Newark-Wayne Community Hospital, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. This facility offers some basic diagnostic services, but for specialized breast cancer care, patients often need to travel further.

Heading west on Route 104 leads towards Rochester, a city with a concentration of medical resources. The drive to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider with a comprehensive cancer center, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This is a significant time commitment, especially for frequent appointments or during inclement weather. Another option is Rochester General Hospital, which is also accessible via Route 104 and generally takes a similar amount of time.

The journey to these hospitals is not always a straight shot. Local roads like Ridge Road and Lake Road offer alternative routes, though they can be slower and less reliable, particularly during winter months. These roads are often narrow and can be subject to heavy truck traffic. The 'Breast Cancer Score' acknowledges the importance of considering these routes as potential alternatives, but also recognizes their limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Williamson, unfortunately, presents a significant hurdle to healthcare access. The Wayne County Public Transit System (WCPTS) provides limited bus service. Routes and schedules are subject to change, and the system's coverage is not extensive, especially in the evenings or on weekends.

The availability of routes serving healthcare facilities in Rochester is limited. Riders would likely need to transfer buses, adding considerable travel time and potential stress, especially for individuals undergoing treatment. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. WCPTS is committed to providing accessible services, but the limited frequency of routes and the potential for lengthy travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or other disabilities. This lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be less consistent in rural areas. For those without access to a personal vehicle, ride-sharing can offer a valuable, albeit potentially expensive, option for getting to appointments.

Medical transport services, like those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, represent another avenue for accessing healthcare. These services are often tailored to individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring assistance with mobility or those who are unable to drive. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can incur significant costs, which can be a barrier for some patients.

**The 'Breast Cancer Score' Implications**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Williamson (14589) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Newark-Wayne Community Hospital provides some immediate healthcare options, the need to travel to Rochester for specialized breast cancer care presents a significant challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, underscores the importance of individual mobility and access to a reliable vehicle.

This scenario emphasizes the importance of planning and resourcefulness for residents. Individuals considering moving to Williamson, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk, should carefully assess their transportation options. They should factor in the potential costs of driving, ride-sharing, or medical transportation.

Furthermore, the 'Breast Cancer Score' highlights the need for community support. Local organizations and healthcare providers can play a vital role in assisting patients with transportation needs. This could involve offering transportation assistance programs, partnering with ride-sharing services, or providing information about available resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Ultimately, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Williamson (14589) underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, requires careful consideration of transportation options. While the rural setting offers a unique charm, residents must be prepared to navigate the challenges of healthcare access. By understanding the available transportation options and leveraging community resources, residents of Williamson can strive to ensure timely and effective healthcare, regardless of their location. The 'Breast Cancer Score' serves as a reminder of the vital link between transportation and healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of breast cancer.