12835, Hadley, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12835, Hadley, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.80 percent of residents in 12835 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saratoga Hospital with a distance of 17.36 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12835 (Hadley, NY)**

The air hangs crisp and clean in Hadley, New York (ZIP Code 12835), a town nestled in the Adirondack foothills. Its bucolic charm, however, masks a critical consideration for residents and prospective newcomers: access to healthcare, particularly for those facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This report analyzes the transportation landscape in and around Hadley, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital medical services, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the primary modes of transportation available to residents. For most, the personal automobile reigns supreme. The major artery serving Hadley is **New York State Route 9N**, a scenic but often winding road that connects the town to larger population centers. Traveling south on Route 9N provides access to Glens Falls, a regional hub with significant healthcare facilities. The drive, typically spanning around 20 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Further afield, the **Northway (Interstate 87)** offers a faster, albeit less direct, route. Accessing the Northway from Hadley involves navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel time. The Northway provides access to Albany and Saratoga Springs, offering a broader range of specialized medical services. However, the increased distance and potential for highway congestion must be factored into the equation.

Public transportation options are limited in Hadley, a common characteristic of rural areas. The **Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT)** provides some service in the region, but its routes and schedules are not designed for easy access to Hadley. The GGFT operates several routes, but none directly serve the town. Residents would need to travel to a central point, such as Glens Falls, to access the GGFT network. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not be conducive to timely appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a priority for GGFT, with all buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the limited service area and infrequent schedules pose a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs areas. However, their presence in Hadley is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or during inclement weather, may prove difficult. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance, offer a more tailored solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs compared to other transportation options. The availability of these services, however, provides a crucial safety net for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transportation.

The impact of these transportation factors on a lung cancer patient's journey is profound. Frequent doctor's appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, and potential hospitalizations necessitate reliable and accessible transportation. Delays or difficulties in reaching medical facilities can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress, all of which can negatively impact patient outcomes.

The distance to specialized cancer centers and the availability of diagnostic equipment are crucial. The Glens Falls Hospital, located in Glens Falls, offers comprehensive cancer care services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Saratoga Hospital, located in Saratoga Springs, provides additional specialized services. The drive times to these facilities are essential considerations.

For a patient living in Hadley, the drive to Glens Falls Hospital may be manageable, but the travel time can still add to the burden of treatment. The drive to Saratoga Hospital, while offering more specialized care, increases the travel time and complexity.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Hadley (ZIP Code 12835) considers these factors. It acknowledges the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potentially higher costs associated with medical transportation. The score also considers the distance to specialized cancer centers and the potential for delays due to traffic and weather.

The score would be lower for residents who are unable to drive or do not have access to a reliable vehicle. Those relying on public transportation or ride-sharing would face greater challenges. The score would also be impacted by the patient's financial resources, as the cost of transportation can be a significant burden.

For individuals considering moving to Hadley, understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access is paramount. While the town offers a tranquil lifestyle, the relative isolation and limited transportation options must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore the availability of medical services before making a move.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for evaluating healthcare access. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all residents, particularly those battling serious illnesses like lung cancer, can receive timely and appropriate medical care. Improving public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation are crucial steps toward enhancing healthcare access in Hadley and similar rural communities.