12837, Hampton, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12837, Hampton, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.10 percent of residents in 12837 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 23.35 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 12837

Moving to Hampton, New York, ZIP Code 12837, offers a picturesque escape. However, when considering a move, especially for individuals or families concerned about health, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the "Lung Cancer Score" for this area, assessing the ease of transportation to relevant medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive view of the journey to potentially life-saving care. This information is particularly crucial for those facing or at risk of lung cancer, where timely diagnosis and treatment are vital.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the primary healthcare facilities serving the 12837 area. These include Glens Falls Hospital, a regional medical center, and various smaller clinics and specialist offices. The Lung Cancer Score aims to illuminate the practical challenges and advantages of accessing these facilities, considering the specific transportation landscape of Hampton.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in 12837, and the surrounding area, is the personal vehicle. Drive times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions and the specific destination. To reach Glens Falls Hospital from Hampton, the most direct route typically involves taking **NY-9N** and then **I-87 North (The Adirondack Northway)**. Under normal traffic conditions, this drive spans approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during peak commuting hours or inclement weather, this time can easily extend.

For those residing in the more remote sections of 12837, the drive time to Glens Falls Hospital could be even longer, potentially exceeding 45 minutes. The availability of parking at the hospital is another crucial factor, adding to the overall time commitment. Smaller clinics and specialist offices might be closer, but their availability and specialization must be considered.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 12837 are limited. The availability of buses is restricted, and they may not offer direct routes to healthcare facilities. The **Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT)** provides some service in the region, but their routes and schedules may not align with the needs of individuals seeking medical appointments.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The GGFT should offer ADA-compliant buses, but the frequency of service and the routes covered might not always be ideal. For individuals with mobility challenges, the limited public transit options can present a significant barrier to healthcare access. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, can be a valuable resource. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including **AmbuBus** and **CareRide**, but availability and insurance coverage should be confirmed.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite View**

The Lung Cancer Score for 12837 is a composite metric, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It is not a single, definitive number, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the following considerations:

* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach Glens Falls Hospital and other relevant healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and coverage of medical transport services.
* **Geographic Location:** The proximity of the individual's residence within 12837 to healthcare facilities and transportation hubs.

The score would be lower for individuals living further from Glens Falls, with limited access to personal vehicles, and with limited public transit options. It would be higher for those residing closer to the hospital, with reliable transportation and the ability to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Implications for Lung Cancer Patients**

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, the Lung Cancer Score has significant implications. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care are common. Delays or difficulties in accessing healthcare can negatively impact patient outcomes.

The score highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals considering a move to Hampton should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Those already residing in 12837 should explore all available transportation options and develop a contingency plan for medical appointments.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

* **Pre-move Assessment:** Before moving to 12837, individuals should research the proximity of their potential residence to healthcare facilities and assess transportation options.
* **Transportation Planning:** Develop a transportation plan that considers all available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, public transit, and medical transport.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for transportation services, including ride-sharing and medical transport.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources that may offer transportation assistance, such as volunteer driver programs.
* **Advocacy:** Advocate for improved public transit options and increased access to healthcare services in the 12837 area.

**Conclusion: A Path to Healthcare Access**

The Lung Cancer Score for 12837 underscores the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when making decisions about where to live. While Hampton offers a desirable lifestyle, individuals with lung cancer or those at risk must carefully evaluate their ability to access timely and effective medical care. By understanding the transportation landscape, exploring available options, and planning proactively, residents of 12837 can navigate the path to healthcare access and improve their chances of a positive health outcome. The journey to healthcare is a critical aspect of moving to Hampton, and a thorough understanding of transportation options is vital for ensuring well-being.