10928, Highland Falls, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 10928, Highland Falls, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 10928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highland Falls (ZIP Code 10928)

The air in Highland Falls, New York (ZIP Code 10928), nestled at the foot of the majestic Hudson Highlands, carries the scent of pine and the promise of a tranquil life. However, for those grappling with a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity of this location must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up offers a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, focusing on the critical component of transportation, a vital bridge connecting patients to potentially life-saving treatments. Understanding the ease or difficulty of getting to appointments, tests, and therapies is paramount for anyone considering moving to Highland Falls or currently residing within its boundaries.

The “Lung Cancer Score” considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey. This is especially critical for those battling lung cancer, where timely access to care can significantly impact prognosis and quality of life.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of Highland Falls, the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare facilities will likely be personal vehicles. The town's location, while picturesque, presents certain geographical challenges. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are situated in larger cities, necessitating travel along a network of highways and roads.

The most direct route to major medical centers often involves utilizing the scenic but sometimes congested **US Route 9W**. This road, while offering stunning views of the Hudson River, can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours and weekends. Expect drive times to vary significantly depending on the time of day and the specific destination.

For those seeking a faster route, **New York State Thruway (I-87)** provides a more direct connection to New York City and its vast array of medical facilities. However, this route involves tolls and can also be subject to traffic delays, particularly around the Tappan Zee Bridge. The drive to New York City can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, **US Route 6** and **NY-293** offer alternative routes, though they may be less direct and potentially involve navigating smaller, winding roads. These routes might be preferable for those seeking to avoid toll roads or heavy traffic on the Thruway.

The drive to nearby hospitals, such as those in Newburgh or Middletown, might be shorter, typically ranging from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic. However, these hospitals may not offer the same specialized cancer care as the larger facilities in New York City. Therefore, the need for longer drives to access comprehensive treatment remains a significant factor.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Highland Falls are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The availability of buses and trains is restricted, making it difficult to rely on public transit for regular medical appointments.

The **Metro-North Railroad** provides service to New York City, with a station located in nearby Garrison. However, the train station is a considerable distance from Highland Falls, requiring a drive or a taxi ride to access. This adds an extra layer of complexity and expense to the journey.

Bus services, primarily operated by **Transport of Rockland (TOR)**, offer limited routes within the region. However, these routes may not directly connect to major hospitals or cancer centers. Furthermore, the frequency of service can be infrequent, and the travel times can be lengthy.

ADA accessibility on public transit is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. While Metro-North Railroad strives to provide accessible stations and trains, the availability of accessible bus routes may vary. It is essential to confirm the accessibility features of specific routes and stations before planning a trip.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Highland Falls area. However, their availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be substantial, especially for longer trips to New York City.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies, such as **LogistiCare** and **Veyo**, provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The availability of medical transportation services in Highland Falls is a critical factor in improving healthcare access for lung cancer patients. These services can help bridge the gap between the patient's home and the medical facility, ensuring that individuals can attend their appointments without the burden of driving or relying on unreliable transportation options.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score**

Based on the transportation landscape in Highland Falls, the "Lung Cancer Score" presents a mixed picture. While the area offers scenic beauty and a sense of community, the limitations in transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potentially long drive times to specialized cancer centers, adds stress and inconvenience to an already difficult situation. The limited availability of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the journey.

However, the availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or rely on other transportation methods. This service can significantly improve access to care and enhance the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For individuals considering moving to Highland Falls with a lung cancer diagnosis, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. They should carefully evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the accessibility of medical transportation services.

Prospective residents should research the specific cancer centers they intend to use and determine the drive times, parking availability, and accessibility features of each facility. They should also investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services in the area.

Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the impact of transportation challenges on their overall well-being. The stress and inconvenience of navigating long distances and unreliable transportation options can negatively affect their physical and emotional health.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Journey**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Highland Falls highlights the importance of transportation in accessing healthcare. While the town offers a tranquil setting, the limitations in transportation options present a challenge for individuals battling lung cancer. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the timely and comprehensive care they need. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but the overall score underscores the importance of careful planning and proactive measures to overcome the transportation barriers and facilitate access to potentially life-saving treatments.