12409, Bearsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12409, Bearsville, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.82 percent of residents in 12409 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Healthalliance Hospital Marys Avenue Campus with a distance of 12.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Assessing Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 12409

The air hangs heavy with the promise of crisp mountain breezes in ZIP Code 12409, encompassing the hamlet of Bearsville, New York, a place that whispers of artistic retreats and quiet living. However, beneath this idyllic veneer lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move: the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for those concerned about lung cancer. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of 12409, scrutinizing drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial elements impacting healthcare access and, ultimately, quality of life.

The primary concern for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. This involves regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, often requiring travel to specialists, radiation oncology centers, and chemotherapy facilities. The geographical realities of 12409, nestled within the Catskill Mountains, significantly influence this aspect. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure present unique challenges to healthcare access, demanding a comprehensive understanding of available transportation options.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in this region. From Bearsville, the most direct route to major healthcare facilities involves navigating the winding roads. The journey to Kingston, the county seat and home to HealthAlliance Hospital, typically entails a drive along **NY-212 East** to its junction with **NY-32 South**. This route, while scenic, can be slow-going, especially during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. The drive time to HealthAlliance Hospital averages around 20 to 30 minutes, but can easily extend to 45 minutes or longer depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further afield, access to more specialized care may necessitate travel to Albany or New York City. The drive to Albany Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, involves a journey of approximately one hour and 15 minutes, primarily via **NY-28 North** to **I-87 South (the New York State Thruway)**. This route provides relatively efficient travel, but the distance and potential for traffic congestion, particularly around Albany, must be factored in.

For those seeking advanced treatment options, such as those offered by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, the drive becomes considerably longer. This involves navigating **NY-28 South** to **I-87 South**, then transitioning to **I-287 East** or **I-87 South** (depending on the desired destination in the city), and finally, navigating the city streets. The total travel time can easily exceed two and a half to three hours, excluding potential traffic delays. This lengthy commute underscores the importance of considering the impact of distance on healthcare access, especially during times of illness and treatment.

Public transportation options in 12409 are limited. Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) provides bus service throughout the county, but routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in the more rural areas like Bearsville. Route J, serving the Woodstock area, offers some connectivity, but its schedule may not align with healthcare appointment times. The frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and this should be confirmed with UCAT directly.

The lack of robust public transportation options highlights the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges and offering a more comfortable and supportive experience. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including MedRide and CareRide, but their availability and service areas should be verified. The cost of these services can vary, and it is crucial to investigate insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 12409, considering transportation and healthcare access, is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for lengthy travel times to specialized medical facilities all contribute to a moderate level of accessibility. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some mitigation, but their availability, cost, and reliability must be carefully considered.

For individuals diagnosed with or at high risk for lung cancer, the challenges associated with transportation can significantly impact their ability to receive timely and effective care. The stress of long commutes, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for transportation-related delays can exacerbate the physical and emotional burdens of the disease.

Moving to Bearsville, or any location within 12409, requires a thorough assessment of these transportation considerations. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. This proactive approach ensures informed decision-making, prioritizing the health and well-being of individuals and their families. The beauty and tranquility of Bearsville should not overshadow the vital importance of healthcare access; careful planning is essential.