12914, Bombay, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12914, Bombay, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.54 percent of residents in 12914 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Massena Hospital Inc with a distance of 15.40 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12914

The crisp Adirondack air of ZIP Code 12914, nestled in the heart of the North Country, presents a stark contrast to the challenges residents face when battling lung cancer. This write-up, a Lung Cancer Score assessment, delves into the critical element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the complexities of transportation. It examines the available options and their impact on a patient's ability to receive timely and effective care. This is more than just a logistical exercise; it's a crucial determinant of prognosis and quality of life.

The primary concern for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer is the promptness of treatment. Delays in diagnosis and therapy can significantly impact survival rates. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape, therefore, becomes a pivotal factor. This score will consider the available transportation modalities, drive times, and accessibility features to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for patients in this region.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

For residents of 12914, the nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Plattsburgh, a city approximately 30 miles away. The primary route to Plattsburgh is via **US Route 9**, a two-lane highway that can be subject to seasonal traffic and weather-related delays, especially during the harsh winters. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly 45 minutes. However, this can easily extend to an hour or more during inclement weather or peak traffic periods.

A secondary route, utilizing **NY Route 374** and connecting to **US Route 9**, offers an alternative. This route is slightly longer, potentially adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the journey. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, is a significant concern. Snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, necessitating delays or even complete road closures.

For those residing in more remote areas within the zip code, the drive to Plattsburgh might involve navigating smaller, winding roads, such as **County Route 22** or **County Route 26**. These roads, often less well-maintained, can add considerable time to the commute and pose additional challenges for patients with mobility issues or undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or nausea. These factors directly influence the accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in 12914 are limited. The **Clinton County Public Transit System (CCPTS)** provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of residents within the city of Plattsburgh. Accessing these services from 12914 requires a drive to a designated bus stop, which can be a significant barrier for patients without personal vehicles.

The CCPTS does offer ADA-compliant buses, equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the frequency of service, especially to and from rural areas, may not be sufficient to meet the needs of patients undergoing regular treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The schedules often require patients to spend extended periods waiting for the bus, adding to their discomfort and potentially delaying their return home.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber or Lyft, in 12914 is inconsistent. While these services may be available in Plattsburgh, their presence in the more rural areas of the zip code is less reliable. This can create significant challenges for patients who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like **Ambu-Lift** and **Care Ride** provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering services that include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, these services often require advance booking and may be subject to availability and cost considerations. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden for patients, especially those on fixed incomes.

**Impact on Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 12914 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for weather-related delays, and the inconsistent availability of ride-share services all contribute to reduced healthcare access. The limited public transportation options, coupled with the need for advance booking and potential cost of medical transportation, further exacerbate the challenges faced by patients.

The ability to receive timely and regular treatment is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. Delays in accessing care can lead to poorer outcomes. The transportation challenges in 12914 create a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially impacting patient outcomes and quality of life. The score reflects this reality, highlighting the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to support lung cancer patients in this region.

**Moving to Bombay:**

The challenges faced by residents of 12914 underscore the importance of comprehensive healthcare access. The situation also highlights the complex considerations individuals face when contemplating a move, even across continents. A hypothetical scenario: imagine a resident of 12914, diagnosed with lung cancer, contemplating a move to Bombay, India. The decision would necessitate a thorough evaluation of the healthcare infrastructure, transportation options, and the availability of specialized cancer care in the chosen location. The complexities of navigating a new healthcare system, understanding language barriers, and adapting to a different cultural context would add further layers of difficulty. The individual would need to carefully weigh the potential benefits of the move against the challenges of accessing healthcare in an unfamiliar environment. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, becomes a crucial tool for informed decision-making, emphasizing the critical link between transportation and the ability to receive life-saving treatment. The considerations are not just geographical; they are deeply personal and life-altering.