12929, Dannemora, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12929, Dannemora, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.83 percent of residents in 12929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 12.34 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Dannemora, NY (ZIP Code 12929)

The seemingly tranquil landscape surrounding Dannemora, New York (ZIP Code 12929), belies a complex reality when considering healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the transportation infrastructure available to residents, a crucial factor in timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The ability to navigate the often-challenging journey to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the quality of life for those battling this disease. This is especially critical for someone **moving to Dannemora**, where the availability of specialized medical services is limited.

The primary challenge in Dannemora is its rural location. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles away, and Burlington, Vermont, roughly 80 miles distant. The distance, coupled with the vagaries of Adirondack weather, presents significant obstacles. This geographical isolation necessitates a robust understanding of the available **transportation** options.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents of 12929. The primary artery is State Route 374, connecting Dannemora to Plattsburgh. This two-lane highway can experience congestion during peak hours and is subject to seasonal weather conditions, including heavy snowfall in winter. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a key healthcare provider, typically takes 30-45 minutes under ideal conditions.

Further afield, the drive to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, involves navigating Interstate 87 (the Northway) south to Exit 42, then crossing the border and utilizing Interstate 89 north. This journey, while on major highways, can easily consume 1.5 to 2 hours, a significant time commitment for appointments, treatments, or emergencies. Delays due to traffic, accidents, or adverse weather can further exacerbate this.

Public **transportation** options are limited. The Clinton County Public Transit system provides bus service within Clinton County. However, the routes and schedules are primarily designed for local travel and may not adequately serve the needs of patients requiring frequent trips to Plattsburgh for cancer care. The system’s accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are crucial for patients with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of routes and the lack of direct connections to medical facilities pose a significant barrier to **healthcare access**.

The availability of public **transportation** for trips to Burlington is practically non-existent. This necessitates reliance on private vehicles or alternative modes of transport.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Dannemora itself is less reliable. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty makes them an unreliable option for scheduled appointments or urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Burlington, can also be prohibitive for many residents, creating another obstacle to **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans Corporation and various local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for trips to Burlington. The need for advance booking and coordination further complicates their use.

For individuals **moving to Dannemora**, the lack of readily available **transportation** to specialized cancer care facilities presents a significant challenge. The nearest comprehensive cancer center, CVPH in Plattsburgh, is the most accessible option, but even this requires a drive of at least 30 minutes. The journey to Burlington, Vermont, with its wider range of specialized services, is significantly longer and more complex, demanding careful planning and resourcefulness.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Dannemora is further complicated by the demographics of the area. A significant portion of the population is elderly, and many may lack the ability to drive or have limited access to reliable vehicles. This vulnerability underscores the critical need for accessible and affordable **transportation** options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Dannemora, NY, reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely and appropriate care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create a complex situation. The cost and availability of medical **transportation** services further compound the difficulties.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the lived experiences of individuals facing a life-altering diagnosis. It highlights the critical need for improved **transportation** infrastructure, increased public **transportation** services, and greater investment in patient support programs. This includes initiatives that address the financial burdens of **transportation** and provide assistance with scheduling appointments and coordinating travel arrangements.

Ultimately, improving **healthcare access** in Dannemora requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the unique challenges of this rural community. This includes advocating for policy changes that support improved **transportation** options, expanding access to telemedicine services, and fostering collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations. The goal is to ensure that residents of Dannemora, regardless of their location or circumstances, have equitable access to the care they need to fight lung cancer.