12921, Chazy, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12921, Chazy, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.89 percent of residents in 12921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 12.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chazy, NY (ZIP Code 12921)

The air in Chazy, New York, crisp with the scent of apples and the promise of a quiet life, holds a silent adversary: the potential for lung cancer. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, a crucial factor in early detection and treatment, becomes paramount. This Lung Cancer Score delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 12921, analyzing the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. For those considering moving to Chazy, this analysis offers a critical perspective on healthcare access, a key element in making an informed decision.

The foundation of this score rests on the understanding that timely access to healthcare is directly linked to improved outcomes for lung cancer patients. Early diagnosis through screenings and prompt treatment are crucial. This score considers the various transportation options available, weighing their efficiency, cost, and accessibility, particularly for individuals facing mobility challenges.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Chazy is the well-maintained network of roadways. The most direct route to Plattsburgh, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling south on **US Route 9**. This scenic highway, often flanked by farmland and glimpses of Lake Champlain, provides a relatively straightforward journey. During off-peak hours, the drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh typically takes around 20-25 minutes.

However, peak traffic, particularly during weekday commutes, can extend this drive time, potentially adding 10-15 minutes. This delay is a critical consideration for individuals requiring urgent care or scheduled appointments. The condition of **US Route 9** is generally good, but winter weather can present challenges, necessitating extra caution and potentially impacting travel times.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **New York State Route 22**, which runs parallel to **US Route 9**. This route offers an alternative, though it may involve slightly longer travel times due to its more winding nature. Local roads, such as **Chazy Landing Road** and **Military Turnpike**, provide access to **US Route 9** and **Route 22**, offering flexibility in navigating the area.

For more specialized care, the drive to Burlington, Vermont, a larger metropolitan area with advanced medical facilities, is approximately an hour and a half. This journey typically involves crossing the state line and utilizing **Interstate 87 (the Northway)** and **US Route 2**. The Northway, a major north-south highway, offers a faster, albeit potentially congested, route.

**Public Transit: A Limited Footprint**

The public transportation options within and around Chazy are limited. The Clinton County Public Transit system provides bus services, but its routes and schedules are not designed to prioritize healthcare access. The bus system operates on a fixed-route schedule with limited frequency, and the routes do not directly connect Chazy to the major healthcare providers in Plattsburgh.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features for individuals with disabilities, is limited. This presents a significant barrier for those with mobility challenges, making accessing healthcare through public transit a difficult endeavor. The lack of robust public transportation is a notable disadvantage for residents relying on alternatives to personal vehicles.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Chazy is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and booking in advance, considering potential delays and increased costs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including specialized medical transport providers. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained personnel. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Chazy, NY (ZIP Code 12921) reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare accessibility. While the proximity to Plattsburgh and its medical facilities provides a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. Drive times are generally manageable, but traffic and weather conditions can introduce delays.

The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The higher cost of medical transportation services further underscores the economic burden of accessing healthcare for some residents.

**Implications for Moving to Chazy**

For individuals considering moving to Chazy, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of assessing their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility challenges should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor in ensuring a good quality of life, especially for those at risk of lung cancer.

The analysis reveals that those considering moving to Chazy should factor in the costs of transportation, the potential for delays, and the limitations of public transit. This assessment underscores the importance of having a reliable transportation plan in place to ensure timely access to medical care.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in Chazy requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing the frequency and reach of public transit services, particularly with increased ADA accessibility, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to ensure consistent availability and potentially subsidized fares for medical appointments could also improve access.

Furthermore, expanding the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would be beneficial. Educating residents about available transportation options and providing resources to navigate the healthcare system is also crucial.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Chazy, NY (ZIP Code 12921) underscores the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when assessing healthcare access. While the proximity to Plattsburgh provides a degree of convenience, the limited public transit options and the potential for delays highlight the need for careful planning and consideration, especially for individuals at risk of lung cancer. The ability to readily access healthcare is a vital component of a healthy and fulfilling life, and this score aims to illuminate the complexities of achieving that goal in the charming community of Chazy.