12923, Churubusco, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12923, Churubusco, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.94 percent of residents in 12923 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 29.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 17.51 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Churubusco (ZIP Code 12923)

The air in Churubusco, New York (ZIP Code 12923), whispers tales of rural tranquility, of vast fields stretching towards the Adirondack Mountains. However, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, this idyllic landscape can present a formidable challenge: navigating the complex terrain of healthcare access. This write-up aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a practical assessment of transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical care, particularly for individuals considering moving to Churubusco or already residing within its borders.

The score considers the critical need for timely and reliable transportation to oncology appointments, radiation therapy sessions, chemotherapy infusions, and post-operative care. Delays and difficulties in transportation can directly impact treatment outcomes and overall patient well-being. The score will incorporate drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a realistic picture of healthcare access in this rural community.

**The Drive: A Measure of Time and Distance**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents of Churubusco is the personal vehicle. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including hospitals with oncology departments, are located in Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles east. This journey necessitates traversing a combination of state highways and local roads.

The most direct route typically involves taking **New York State Route 11** east, a well-maintained two-lane highway that snakes through the countryside. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a major healthcare provider, usually takes around 30-40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This drive time, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather, particularly during the harsh Adirondack winters. Snow and ice can transform the roads into treacherous passages, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical medical appointments.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **County Route 24**, a more scenic but potentially slower route that meanders south before connecting with **New York State Route 374** towards Plattsburgh. This route, while offering a different perspective of the region, adds travel time and may be less desirable during inclement weather. The condition of these secondary roads can vary, further complicating the journey.

The drive to other healthcare facilities, such as specialized cancer centers or radiation therapy clinics, may require travel to Burlington, Vermont, or Montreal, Canada. These trips involve significantly longer drive times, potentially exceeding two hours, and crossing state or international borders. This extended travel time can place a considerable burden on patients, especially those experiencing fatigue or other side effects from treatment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Churubusco are extremely limited. The region's rural nature and low population density make establishing a robust public transit system economically challenging. There is no readily available public bus service within the immediate vicinity of Churubusco. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to medical conditions, or have financial constraints.

The absence of reliable public transportation is a major obstacle for many residents. Patients relying on others for rides or facing financial limitations often struggle to make appointments. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, interrupted treatment regimens, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Churubusco. The sparse population and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate in the area. This leaves a significant void in transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services, however, offer a crucial lifeline for patients needing assistance. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with mobility challenges.

**Medical Transport Options:**

* **North Country Medical Transport:** This local service provides transportation throughout the North Country region, including Churubusco. They offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services.
* **Champlain Valley Transportation:** Serving the Plattsburgh area, they also provide NEMT services.

These services can be essential for patients who cannot drive or require assistance with mobility. However, availability and cost can be significant barriers. Patients may need to book rides in advance, and the cost of these services can be substantial, especially for frequent appointments.

**ADA Accessibility: A Critical Consideration**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles is a key factor in determining healthcare access. Medical transport services are generally equipped with accessible vehicles. However, the availability of accessible public transportation, which is virtually non-existent in Churubusco, poses a significant challenge.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Summary**

The Lung Cancer Score for Churubusco (ZIP Code 12923) reflects the challenges and limitations of healthcare access within this rural community. The score is based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Moderate, with a 30-40 minute drive to Plattsburgh. Weather conditions can significantly impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Extremely limited, with no regular bus service available.
* **Ride-Share:** Unavailable.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but potentially costly and requires advance booking.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Limited, primarily reliant on medical transport services.

**Overall Score:** The Lung Cancer Score for Churubusco is **moderate to challenging**. While the drive to Plattsburgh is manageable, the lack of public transportation, ride-share services, and the reliance on medical transport create significant barriers for many patients. Individuals considering moving to Churubusco or already residing there should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore all available options to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. Planning ahead, securing transportation assistance, and advocating for improved healthcare access are crucial steps in navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment in this rural environment. The success of treatment hinges on the ability to overcome these transportation hurdles, highlighting the vital link between transportation and healthcare access.