12922, Childwold, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12922, Childwold, New York is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

25.00 percent of residents in 12922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 18.25 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Childwold, NY (ZIP Code 12922)

The crisp air and towering pines of Childwold, New York, offer a serene escape. However, for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the tranquility is often shadowed by the reality of accessing specialized healthcare. This write-up assesses the “Lung Cancer Score” for ZIP code 12922, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a critical element for anyone considering moving to this Adirondack haven.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services, particularly those specializing in oncology, pulmonology, and radiation therapy. This score is not a formal medical metric but rather a practical assessment of the challenges and opportunities for patients in Childwold. It takes into account the geographical isolation of the area and the limited transportation infrastructure, which significantly impacts healthcare access.

The primary challenge for residents of Childwold is the distance to comprehensive cancer care. The nearest major medical centers equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment are located in larger cities like Plattsburgh, NY, or Burlington, VT. These destinations require significant travel time, making the journey a critical factor in the patient experience.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Childwold. The primary route to Plattsburgh involves navigating NY-3, a two-lane highway that winds through the Adirondack Park. The drive, approximately 70 miles, typically takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternatively, a route through Tupper Lake and onto NY-30 offers a slightly longer but often less congested drive. This option, covering roughly 80 miles, can take up to 2 hours. The secondary roads, though scenic, can be challenging during winter months, with potential for snow and ice.

Accessing Burlington, VT, involves a drive of approximately 100 miles, primarily via NY-3 and I-87. This journey, which can take up to 2.5 hours, crosses state lines and may require navigating additional traffic and toll roads. The time commitment for these drives, especially for frequent appointments, can be a significant burden on patients and their families.

Public transportation options are extremely limited in ZIP code 12922. There is no direct public bus service connecting Childwold to Plattsburgh or Burlington. The Adirondack Trailways bus line, while serving some areas within the Adirondack Park, does not have a stop directly in Childwold.

The absence of robust public transportation significantly hinders healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles. This is particularly problematic for elderly residents, those with mobility limitations, or individuals who cannot drive due to their medical condition. The lack of readily available public transit reinforces the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Childwold. Their presence is sporadic, and wait times can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not a reliable option.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. They are primarily designed for patients who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or have specific medical needs during transport.

The limited transportation infrastructure directly impacts healthcare access for lung cancer patients. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care are essential. The extended travel times to reach specialized medical facilities in Plattsburgh or Burlington can lead to increased fatigue, stress, and financial strain on patients and their families.

The lack of readily available public transportation and the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges. Patients without personal vehicles face significant barriers to accessing timely and comprehensive healthcare. This underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor when evaluating healthcare access in Childwold.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options is also a crucial consideration. While medical transportation services are often equipped to accommodate patients with disabilities, the availability and affordability of these services are key. Public transportation, if available, should meet ADA requirements, including accessible buses and routes.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 12922 is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to specialized medical centers, and the absence of reliable public transportation create significant barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Childwold, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their ability to manage the travel demands associated with potential medical needs. They should also research and plan for alternative transportation options, such as medical transportation services or support from family and friends.

Ultimately, the success of healthcare access in Childwold depends on a combination of factors: patient awareness of transportation challenges, proactive planning, and the availability of supportive resources. The local community can play a vital role in addressing these challenges by advocating for improved transportation infrastructure, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting volunteer driver networks.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to improve healthcare access in Childwold. This includes addressing transportation barriers, promoting patient education, and fostering a supportive community that prioritizes the well-being of its residents. The quality of life in this Adirondack community is directly tied to the ability of its residents to access the healthcare they need, when they need it.