12054, Delmar, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12054, Delmar, New York is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.06 percent of residents in 12054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Peter's Hospital with a distance of 3.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Delmar, NY (ZIP Code 12054)

Delmar, New York, nestled in the picturesque Hudson Valley, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the Capital Region. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, understanding the intricacies of transportation becomes paramount. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the landscape of healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 12054, focusing on the critical element of transportation. This is especially relevant for those contemplating moving to Delmar, as it can significantly impact their quality of life and treatment options.

The primary concern, of course, is the timely and reliable transport to medical facilities. This score assesses the ease of getting to hospitals and cancer centers, accounting for drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This information is crucial for patients, caregivers, and anyone considering a move to the area, as it directly influences the ability to receive prompt and effective care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Delmar, the most direct route to major healthcare providers involves navigating the roadways. Albany Medical Center, a comprehensive facility offering advanced cancer care, is a key destination. The drive to Albany Medical Center from Delmar typically involves taking **Delaware Avenue** north, which then merges onto **New Scotland Avenue** and eventually connects to the hospital campus. This journey, during off-peak hours, can be completed in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, traffic congestion on Delaware Avenue and New Scotland Avenue can significantly extend this travel time, potentially pushing it to 30 minutes or more.

Another significant healthcare provider is St. Peter's Hospital, also located in Albany. The drive to St. Peter's from Delmar often involves taking **Delaware Avenue** north, then connecting to **Interstate 90 (I-90)** east for a short distance before exiting onto **US Route 9** north. The drive time to St. Peter's, under normal traffic conditions, is comparable to Albany Medical Center, roughly 20 to 25 minutes. Again, rush hour can cause delays, particularly on I-90 and US Route 9.

For those seeking specialized cancer treatment, the New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH) centers offer convenient options. NYOH has several locations, including one in Albany and another in Clifton Park. The drive to the Albany location is similar to the routes to Albany Medical Center and St. Peter's. Reaching the Clifton Park location requires navigating **I-87 (the Northway)** north. This drive, depending on traffic, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

**Public Transit: The Bus and Beyond**

The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) provides public transportation services in the Albany area, including Delmar. Several CDTA bus routes serve the Delmar area, offering a potentially viable, albeit less direct, alternative to driving. Route 12, for example, runs along **Delaware Avenue**, providing access to Albany and connecting to other routes that serve healthcare facilities.

However, relying on public transportation for cancer treatment presents challenges. The CDTA bus schedules may not always align with appointment times, and travel times are significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, transferring between routes can add considerable time and complexity to the journey. While the CDTA offers ADA-accessible buses, which are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, the overall accessibility of public transportation for cancer patients, who may experience fatigue, mobility issues, or other health challenges, needs careful consideration.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options for Assistance**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Delmar area, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can be particularly helpful for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by specialized companies, offer a more tailored solution for patients with specific needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility issues and other medical requirements. While medical transport services offer a higher level of care and convenience, they also tend to be the most expensive option. Companies like MedTrans and First Call Medical Transportation are available in the area.

**The Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Delmar, NY (ZIP code 12054) reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. The availability of multiple healthcare providers, including Albany Medical Center, St. Peter's Hospital, and NYOH centers, is a significant advantage. The relatively short drive times to these facilities, particularly during off-peak hours, are also positive factors.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services for transportation, coupled with the limitations of public transit, presents potential challenges. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport, along with the potential for traffic delays, can impact the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Moving to Delmar: A Careful Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Delmar, NY, and who have a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, the transportation element is a crucial factor. The availability of healthcare providers is a positive aspect. However, assessing the feasibility of transportation to and from these facilities is essential. This includes considering the individual's ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Furthermore, it is advisable to investigate the specific services offered by the healthcare providers, including their transportation assistance programs. Some hospitals and cancer centers offer shuttle services or partnerships with transportation providers to help patients get to and from appointments.

In conclusion, while Delmar offers a desirable quality of life, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial for those seeking healthcare access, especially for a condition like lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need for a careful evaluation of transportation options, considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and the potential benefits of specialized medical transport services. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and overall well-being.