14591, Wyoming, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14591, Wyoming, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.60 percent of residents in 14591 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 7.44 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14591

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It’s not simply about the medical expertise available, but also the ease with which a patient can access it. This write-up explores the transportation landscape for individuals in ZIP code 14591, focusing on their ability to reach vital breast cancer services, and ultimately, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility challenges and opportunities within this specific area.

Our analysis considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all within the context of the geographical realities of 14591. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and advantages faced by residents seeking breast cancer care. We'll also touch upon how these factors might influence decisions, even those considering moving to Wyoming, as access to specialized healthcare is a critical consideration.

The primary consideration for residents in 14591 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The region is largely rural, and the most direct routes to specialized medical facilities are often via roadways. The most common route to larger medical centers in the Rochester area, where specialized breast cancer care is concentrated, involves navigating the network of highways and roads.

From the center of 14591, you'd likely travel north on **Route 15** to connect with **Interstate 490**. This stretch, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to seasonal weather challenges, particularly during the winter months. Delays due to snow or ice are not uncommon, adding significant time and stress to the journey, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Alternatively, heading east on **Route 390** offers a slightly longer but potentially less congested route to **I-490**. Both routes converge on the same destination: Rochester, a city with comprehensive cancer care facilities. The drive time to the city can range from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within 14591.

Public transportation options within 14591 are limited. The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) does provide some service, but it is primarily focused on serving the city of Rochester and its immediate suburbs. Service to 14591 is infrequent and often requires multiple transfers, adding considerable time and complexity to the commute.

RTS routes serving the area are sporadic, and their schedules may not align well with the needs of patients requiring regular appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or follow-up care. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles on these routes is crucial, but the frequency of these vehicles may be limited, creating a barrier for patients with mobility challenges. The reliance on public transportation for those with breast cancer is often impractical.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, but their availability in 14591 can be inconsistent. The cost of these services, especially for regular trips to and from medical appointments, can quickly become a financial burden for patients already facing significant medical expenses. Moreover, the reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. Companies specializing in this service often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility challenges. These services can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services vary, and it's essential to research and plan in advance to secure reliable transportation.

The journey to healthcare can be particularly challenging for those without personal vehicles or those facing mobility limitations. This is where the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport, and the accessibility of public transit become critical.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 14591 must reflect these realities. It should consider the average drive times to major cancer centers, the frequency and reliability of public transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 14591 would be moderately low. The score reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing breast cancer care, particularly those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Wyoming, or any other location, access to healthcare, including specialized cancer care, is a crucial factor. The availability of reliable transportation options is a significant determinant of healthcare access.

The score highlights the need for improved transportation options, including increased public transit service, enhanced ride-sharing availability, and greater access to affordable medical transportation services. This could include advocating for expanded RTS routes, subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments, or partnering with medical transportation providers to offer discounted rates for patients.

Ultimately, improving the "Breast Cancer Score" for 14591 requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the transportation barriers faced by residents seeking vital healthcare services. It is a matter of ensuring that all residents have equal access to the care they need, regardless of their ability to drive or their financial circumstances. The journey to healthcare should not be an added burden for those already facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.