12928, Crown Point, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12928, Crown Point, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.57 percent of residents in 12928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 19.12 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Accessing Care in Crown Point, NY (ZIP Code 12928)

The crisp air of the Adirondacks and the serene beauty of Lake Champlain beckon those seeking a life of tranquility in Crown Point, New York (ZIP Code 12928). However, for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**. This write-up assesses the accessibility of lung cancer-related medical services from a **transportation** perspective, assigning a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" based on drive times, public transit options, and alternative **transportation** methods. This score aims to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents of Crown Point seeking timely and comprehensive care. Considering a move to Crown Point? This is a vital consideration.

The foundation of our assessment begins with the critical need for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Lung cancer, if detected early, offers a significantly higher chance of successful intervention. Therefore, the speed and ease with which residents can reach specialized medical facilities are paramount. The primary determinant of our score will be the time required to reach hospitals and cancer centers equipped to handle lung cancer cases.

The closest major healthcare hub is the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont, a journey that presents a significant **transportation** hurdle. The most direct route involves a drive of approximately 70 miles, primarily via New York State Route 9N and then Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway) to the Vermont border, transitioning to US Route 2 and finally Interstate 89. Under ideal conditions, this drive can take roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. However, factors like traffic, especially during peak hours or tourist seasons, and inclement weather, particularly during the harsh Adirondack winters, can significantly extend this travel time.

The next closest option, though still a considerable distance, is Glens Falls Hospital in Glens Falls, NY. The drive, roughly 60 miles, utilizes NY-9N, eventually connecting to Interstate 87 South. This trip, under optimal conditions, requires about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This option provides a shorter drive, though the hospital may not offer the same breadth of specialized lung cancer services as the UVMMC.

The third major hospital option is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, NY. Located approximately 50 miles from Crown Point, the drive utilizes NY-9N. This journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes under ideal conditions. However, the availability of specialized oncology services at CVPH should be confirmed.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, underscore the potential for delays and the importance of considering the impact of **transportation** on the patient's well-being. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care can quickly become burdensome. The physical and emotional toll of long drives, especially for individuals already battling a serious illness, cannot be understated.

Public **transportation** options in Crown Point are extremely limited. Essex County, where Crown Point is located, has very little public transit infrastructure. There is no direct bus route connecting Crown Point to any of the hospitals mentioned. The nearest public transit options would involve a combination of local services, potentially including the Essex County Public **Transportation** system, which may offer limited routes to nearby towns. However, these services are infrequent and unlikely to be suitable for regular medical appointments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles and routes is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The lack of robust public transit in this area presents a significant barrier for those who cannot drive or have difficulty navigating private vehicles. This lack of **healthcare access** is a major consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability in Crown Point are uncertain. The rural nature of the area and the potential for limited driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, make ride-sharing a less dependable option for consistent medical appointments. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips could also become a significant financial burden.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical **transportation** providers, are available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements. The availability of these services and their ability to accommodate the specific needs of lung cancer patients, such as oxygen requirements or wheelchair accessibility, should be carefully investigated.

Given the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation**, the reliance on private vehicles is the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing lung cancer care. This dependence necessitates careful consideration of the patient's ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the financial implications of fuel, maintenance, and potential parking fees.

The hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for Crown Point, based on the factors discussed, would be relatively low. The long drive times to major healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of alternative **transportation** methods all contribute to a challenging **healthcare access** landscape. This score highlights the need for proactive planning and preparation for individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer in Crown Point.

The score can be improved with several proactive steps. First, residents should establish a strong relationship with their primary care physician, who can provide guidance and referrals to specialists. Second, individuals should research the availability of cancer support groups and resources in the area. Third, exploring the availability of telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments can reduce the need for frequent travel. Fourth, advocating for improved **transportation** options, such as expanding public transit routes or partnering with ride-sharing services, could significantly enhance **healthcare access** for the community.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Crown Point or reside there while facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis involves weighing the benefits of the environment against the challenges of accessing specialized medical care. The “Lung Cancer Score” serves as a crucial tool for understanding the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, corner of New York. This is a critical factor to consider before **moving to Crown Point**.