12903, Plattsburgh, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12903, Plattsburgh, New York is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.44 percent of residents in 12903 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 1.91 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plattsburgh (ZIP Code 12903)

The crisp air of Plattsburgh, New York (ZIP Code 12903), nestled along the shores of Lake Champlain, offers a scenic backdrop for life. But for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty of the surroundings must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around 12903, offering a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities for those seeking timely and effective care. We’ll dissect the accessibility of medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation modalities, culminating in a nuanced understanding of the "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific region.

The primary healthcare provider in the area is the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), located at 75 Beekman Street. This hospital is the linchpin of healthcare access for residents of 12903, offering a range of services, including oncology.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Plattsburgh's Roads**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the journey to CVPH from various points within 12903 is generally manageable. The city is relatively compact, and traffic congestion is typically minimal. Driving times, however, can vary depending on the specific location within the ZIP code.

From the northern reaches of 12903, a drive to CVPH typically involves navigating local roads, such as Route 9 and Cornelia Street, with travel times averaging between 5 to 10 minutes. Those residing in the southern parts of the ZIP code might utilize US Route 9, a major thoroughfare, and Beekman Street, resulting in a similar travel time. Residents in the western areas might use Route 374 or Military Turnpike, with drive times remaining consistent.

While the roads are generally well-maintained, winter weather can pose a challenge. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and necessitate careful driving. This underscores the importance of preparedness and the potential impact of seasonal conditions on healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Option**

For individuals without personal vehicles, or those seeking alternative transportation, public transit offers a more limited, yet viable, option. The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) provides bus service within Plattsburgh and the surrounding areas.

The CCPT operates several routes that serve various parts of the city. While specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, it is important to note that service frequency may be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. Riders with mobility limitations should inquire about ADA-accessible features on the buses.

The bus stop nearest to CVPH is a significant factor. The convenience of a nearby stop can greatly improve the accessibility of healthcare services. However, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in 12903 requires careful consideration of schedules, route availability, and potential travel times.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Plattsburgh, providing another transportation option. The availability of these services may vary depending on demand and time of day. Ride-sharing can offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those with limited mobility or those who prefer door-to-door service.

Medical transportation services are also available for individuals with specific needs. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Some local providers may offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability and cost of these services should be thoroughly investigated.

**The "Lung Cancer Score": A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 12903 must consider the interplay of all these factors. It's not just about distance; it's about the ease and reliability of transportation.

The score would be influenced by the drive times to CVPH, the availability and frequency of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport. The score should also consider the impact of seasonal weather conditions and the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Plattsburgh, or for those already residing in the area, the Lung Cancer Score provides a critical lens through which to assess healthcare access. It underscores the importance of understanding the local transportation landscape and its impact on the ability to receive timely and effective medical care.

**Factors Affecting the Score:**

* **Proximity to CVPH:** The closer one lives to the hospital, the higher the score.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Convenient access to bus routes with frequent service increases the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Consistent availability of ride-sharing services boosts the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The presence of reliable medical transport services enhances the score.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of seasonal weather on transportation is factored in.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is a key consideration.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in 12903**

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in 12903 presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. While the city's compact size and relatively light traffic offer advantages, the limited public transit options and the potential impact of winter weather require careful consideration. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can help fill the gaps, but their availability and cost must be assessed.

For those considering moving to Plattsburgh, a thorough understanding of the local transportation infrastructure is essential. For current residents, exploring all available transportation options and planning for potential challenges is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of healthcare in this beautiful, yet sometimes challenging, corner of New York State. The journey to healthcare is not just about the destination; it's about the ease and reliability of the journey itself.