12811, Bakers Mills, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12811, Bakers Mills, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.10 percent of residents in 12811 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 34.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 28.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bakers Mills, NY (ZIP Code 12811)

The crisp mountain air of Bakers Mills, New York, offers a serene escape, but the reality of healthcare access, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer, necessitates a thorough examination. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP code 12811, considers the crucial element of transportation, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching necessary medical facilities. This is vital for anyone considering moving to Bakers Mills or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The primary concern is the relative remoteness of Bakers Mills. The nearest comprehensive cancer care is not readily accessible. This geographical isolation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, demanding a detailed look at transportation options. The score aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for accessing vital healthcare.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation is **New York State Route 8**. Driving south, the journey to Glens Falls Hospital, a significant regional healthcare provider, is approximately 45 miles. This drive, taking roughly one hour and fifteen minutes under ideal conditions, is a significant time commitment, especially when considering potential traffic, weather, or the physical demands of a patient undergoing treatment. The road is generally well-maintained, but winter conditions can pose serious challenges, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents.

Further south, the drive to Albany Medical Center, a more specialized facility, is approximately 80 miles, taking roughly two hours. This longer distance introduces additional complexities, including increased fuel costs, fatigue for the driver, and the potential for complications during transport.

Beyond Route 8, secondary roads like **County Route 4** and **County Route 49** provide alternative routes, but they are often winding, less well-maintained, and may add to the travel time. These routes are not ideal for patients requiring frequent medical appointments or those experiencing physical limitations.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in this rural area. There is no direct bus service to Glens Falls or Albany from Bakers Mills. This lack of public transportation significantly compounds the challenges of healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ADA-compliant features on any available public transit are nonexistent. The nearest public transit options are in Glens Falls, offering some limited bus routes. These routes do not serve Bakers Mills. This further underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Glens Falls and Albany areas, but their availability in Bakers Mills is uncertain and likely limited. The cost of ride-sharing for the long distances involved would be substantial, posing a significant financial burden for patients. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing in this remote location, especially during inclement weather, is questionable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are available, but these services often come at a premium cost. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region, offering ambulance and non-emergency medical transport. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive, and the availability of specialized transport, such as for patients requiring oxygen or other medical equipment, needs to be confirmed.

The impact of these transportation limitations on a patient's Lung Cancer Score is substantial. Frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care are essential components of lung cancer treatment. The time spent traveling to and from these appointments, the associated costs, and the potential for complications during transport all negatively impact the patient's quality of life and potentially their treatment outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score for Bakers Mills, therefore, reflects a significant challenge in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of reliable public transportation, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation.

For individuals considering moving to Bakers Mills, this analysis highlights the critical importance of evaluating their ability to manage the transportation challenges associated with healthcare. This includes assessing their access to a reliable vehicle, the financial resources to cover transportation costs, and their physical ability to endure long drives.

For current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, this analysis underscores the importance of proactively planning for transportation needs. This includes exploring all available options, seeking assistance from family and friends, and considering the potential costs of medical transport services.

The Lung Cancer Score is not merely a numerical value; it's a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural community. It emphasizes the importance of considering transportation as a crucial factor in overall health and well-being, particularly for individuals facing a serious illness like lung cancer. The score serves as a call to action, urging residents and policymakers to explore solutions to improve healthcare access in Bakers Mills, ensuring that residents can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve.