10980, Stony Point, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 10980, Stony Point, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.64 percent of residents in 10980 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hudson Valley Hospital Center with a distance of 7.02 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stony Point (ZIP Code 10980)

The insidious nature of lung cancer demands swift, efficient access to diagnostic and treatment resources. For residents of Stony Point, New York (ZIP Code 10980), the ability to navigate the complex landscape of **transportation** options directly impacts their **healthcare access** and, ultimately, their survival. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, considering the practical realities of reaching crucial medical facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering **moving to Stony Point**, as understanding these logistical challenges is paramount.

Stony Point, nestled in Rockland County, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. While the area boasts natural beauty, its location presents challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The Lung Cancer Score considers the time, cost, and ease of reaching facilities equipped to diagnose and treat this devastating disease.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary arteries for **transportation** in and out of Stony Point are the Palisades Interstate Parkway and Route 9W. The Palisades Interstate Parkway, a scenic route, provides relatively direct access south towards New Jersey and the George Washington Bridge, opening up access to New York City hospitals. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times.

Route 9W, running north-south, offers a more local, albeit slower, alternative. This road, while less prone to major traffic jams, is often congested with local traffic and commercial vehicles. The journey to major medical centers in the region, such as Montefiore Nyack Hospital (approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic) or Westchester Medical Center (closer to an hour), necessitates careful planning.

For those residing in the more remote sections of Stony Point, particularly along the Hudson River, the drive times can be even longer, adding to the stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis. The condition of local roads, including minor roads like Willow Grove Road and Thiells-Mount Ivy Road, further influences travel times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public **transportation** options in Stony Point are limited, significantly impacting the Lung Cancer Score. Rockland County's public transit system, the Transport of Rockland (TOR), provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not always conducive to timely medical appointments.

The primary TOR route serving Stony Point is Route 91, which connects to the Spring Valley Transit Center. From there, connections to other routes and the Metro-North Railroad are possible. However, the frequency of Route 91, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be infrequent, requiring patients to factor in significant wait times.

ADA accessibility on TOR buses is generally available, but the reliability of these features can be a concern. Patients with mobility limitations, a common challenge for those undergoing cancer treatment, must carefully plan their trips and consider potential delays. The lack of direct bus routes to many specialized cancer centers further complicates the **healthcare access** equation.

The Metro-North Railroad, accessible via the Haverstraw station (approximately a 15-minute drive from Stony Point), offers a faster connection to New York City. However, this option requires a transfer to the subway system, adding another layer of complexity and potential delays. The cost of train tickets and subway fares can also be a financial burden for patients and their families.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. However, the availability of these services in Stony Point can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited cell service. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, like Logisticare and Access-A-Ride (for those who qualify), provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service, which can be invaluable for patients with mobility issues. However, the scheduling process can be complex, and availability may be limited, particularly for urgent appointments.

The reliance on these services highlights the challenges faced by Stony Point residents in accessing timely medical care. The Lung Cancer Score must account for the potential delays and uncertainties associated with these options.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score for Stony Point (ZIP Code 10980) is not a simple numerical value but a complex assessment considering the interplay of various factors. The score is negatively impacted by the limited public **transportation** options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic delays. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services further influence the score.

The score is positively affected by the proximity to Montefiore Nyack Hospital, offering a local option for some care. However, the need for specialized treatment at larger hospitals, such as Westchester Medical Center or facilities in New York City, necessitates longer travel times and increased reliance on less reliable **transportation** methods.

**Recommendations: Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the Lung Cancer Score for Stony Point, several measures are recommended. Increased frequency and expanded routes for the TOR bus system are crucial. Collaboration with ride-sharing companies to ensure reliable service and potentially subsidized fares for medical appointments would be beneficial.

Advocating for expanded medical **transportation** services and improving the coordination of appointments with available **transportation** options is also vital. Finally, attracting more specialized cancer care providers to the local area would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for residents.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Lung Cancer Score for Stony Point underscores the importance of proactive measures to improve **healthcare access**. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges of navigating the **transportation** landscape to reach vital medical care cannot be ignored. For those **moving to Stony Point**, understanding these challenges is crucial. By addressing these issues, the community can ensure that residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis receive the timely and effective care they deserve, regardless of their location. The health and well-being of the community depend on it.