12865, Salem, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12865, Salem, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.28 percent of residents in 12865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saratoga Hospital with a distance of 24.11 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12865

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, becomes a critical element in the overall treatment and prognosis. For residents of ZIP Code 12865, nestled in the scenic embrace of Salem, New York, this journey is defined by the availability, accessibility, and efficiency of their transportation options. This "Lung Cancer Score" analysis will assess the landscape of transportation and healthcare access, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals residing within this community. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Salem or seeking the best possible care.

The primary challenge for residents of 12865 is the relative remoteness of specialized medical facilities. While Salem itself offers primary care, the advanced diagnostics and treatment options for lung cancer are primarily located in larger regional centers. The most direct route to these centers involves navigating the network of highways and roads that weave through the Adirondack foothills.

The most common route involves utilizing New York State Route 22, a north-south artery that connects Salem to neighboring towns and eventually to larger cities. Driving south on Route 22, one can access the Glens Falls Hospital, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, the drive can be challenging, especially during winter months, requiring careful attention to road conditions and potential delays.

Alternatively, traveling west on County Route 30 towards Saratoga Springs provides access to Saratoga Hospital, another significant healthcare provider. This route, approximately a 45-60 minute drive, is often favored for its access to specialized oncology services and clinical trials. The Saratoga Hospital provides a state-of-the-art cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment.

The availability of public transportation in 12865 is limited. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent and do not directly serve Salem. The GGFT does provide service to Glens Falls, but the lack of a direct route from Salem and the limited frequency of service make public transit a less viable option for those seeking timely healthcare access, particularly for patients undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments. The ADA accessibility of the GGFT buses should be considered, but the limited routes still pose a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in 12865 is not guaranteed. Availability can be inconsistent, and the cost of rides can be a significant barrier, especially for frequent appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing also introduces the risk of delays and uncertainty, which can be detrimental for patients undergoing treatment and needing reliable transportation.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and various local ambulance services operate in the region. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 12865 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the primary challenge lies in the distance to specialized care, the availability of multiple transportation options, albeit with varying degrees of accessibility and cost, offers some flexibility. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, making the affordability of a car and the ability to drive crucial factors in healthcare access.

The drive times to the primary healthcare facilities, Glens Falls Hospital and Saratoga Hospital, range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions. These drive times, while manageable, can be stressful for patients and their families, especially during times of illness. The lack of robust public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 12865 should also consider the seasonal variations in road conditions. Winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety, making access to healthcare even more challenging. Residents need to be prepared for potential delays and disruptions, especially during the colder months.

Furthermore, the score must account for the financial burden of transportation. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation can add up, placing a significant strain on patients and their families, particularly those facing the financial challenges associated with cancer treatment. This is especially important for those considering moving to Salem.

The quality of healthcare access in 12865 is also influenced by the availability of support services within the community. The presence of local support groups, patient navigators, and social workers can help patients navigate the healthcare system, access resources, and coordinate transportation. These support systems play a vital role in mitigating the challenges of transportation and ensuring that patients receive the care they need.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 12865 reveals a mixed picture. While the community benefits from access to several healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of transportation pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the impact of seasonal weather conditions further complicate healthcare access. For individuals considering moving to Salem, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of support services is crucial to ensuring that they can access the necessary care and treatment. The score underscores the need for continuous efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, expand public transportation options, and provide financial assistance to patients facing transportation barriers.