12933, Ellenburg, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12933, Ellenburg, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.75 percent of residents in 12933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 16.19 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Accessing Healthcare in Ellenburg, NY (ZIP Code 12933)

The crisp air of the Adirondacks, the tranquility of the countryside – these are the hallmarks of Ellenburg, New York, a community nestled in the heart of Franklin County. But for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity is often challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 12933, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services, including oncology specialists, diagnostic imaging centers, and treatment facilities. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility, a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Ellenburg or currently residing within its borders.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the understanding that timely and reliable transportation is paramount in the fight against lung cancer. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes. Therefore, the availability and efficiency of transportation options directly influence the Lung Cancer Score for this region. We delve into the complexities of driving times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents seeking crucial healthcare.

**The Road to Care: Driving and Distance**

For many Ellenburg residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is the personal vehicle. The geography of the area necessitates this reliance, with limited public transit options. The major thoroughfare serving the area is **New York State Route 11**, which provides a north-south artery connecting Ellenburg to larger population centers. A drive south on Route 11 leads to Plattsburgh, the closest city with comprehensive medical facilities.

The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Ellenburg. This drive is generally straightforward, but winter weather conditions can significantly impact travel times, potentially adding considerable delays due to snow and ice.

Another important destination is the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake. This drive is longer, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via **New York State Route 374** and **New York State Route 3**. This route offers scenic views, but it's also winding and can be particularly challenging during inclement weather. The distance and travel time necessitate careful planning, especially for those undergoing regular treatments or facing urgent medical needs.

The availability of reliable transportation is a crucial factor in healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle. The Lung Cancer Score considers the impact of distance, road conditions, and seasonal weather on the ability to reach healthcare providers promptly.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Ellenburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. The Clinton County Public Transit System (CCPTS) offers some routes, but service frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Ellenburg.

The CCPTS does provide transportation to Plattsburgh, the closest major medical hub. However, the schedules may not align perfectly with medical appointments, potentially requiring patients to arrange for extended wait times or alternative transportation. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. CCPTS strives to provide accessible services, but the availability of these vehicles on all routes needs careful verification.

The lack of comprehensive public transit highlights a critical need for alternative transportation solutions. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the limitations of public transit, emphasizing the importance of other options for healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Ellenburg is less consistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing services for scheduled medical appointments requires careful consideration.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. These services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, provide door-to-door service, often with trained medical personnel. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services. These options play a crucial role in bridging the transportation gap, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges or those without access to personal vehicles.

**The Healthcare Landscape: Facilities and Specialists**

The availability of specialized healthcare services within a reasonable distance is a vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. Plattsburgh, with CVPH, offers a range of medical specialties, including oncology. The presence of oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and other specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Saranac Lake, with Adirondack Medical Center, also provides essential healthcare services. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the proximity of these facilities, considering the travel times and the availability of specialized care. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, is also evaluated, as these resources can significantly improve the patient experience.

**The Impact of Moving to Ellenburg**

For individuals considering moving to Ellenburg, the Lung Cancer Score provides crucial insights into the realities of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services must be carefully considered.

Potential residents should research the specific healthcare needs of their families and assess the feasibility of accessing required medical services from Ellenburg. Factors such as age, mobility, and existing health conditions will influence the importance of transportation options.

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and well-being.

**Conclusion: A Score Reflecting Challenges and Opportunities**

The Lung Cancer Score for Ellenburg, NY (ZIP Code 12933) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Plattsburgh and Saranac Lake offers access to essential medical services, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential challenges posed by weather conditions present significant hurdles.

The score acknowledges the importance of careful planning, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides crucial support, but the cost and reliability of these options must be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Ellenburg highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access, including exploring options for expanding public transit, supporting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transport services. These improvements are crucial for ensuring that all residents of Ellenburg have timely and equitable access to the healthcare they need. This assessment is a starting point, a call to action, and a commitment to advocating for better healthcare access for all residents of Ellenburg, particularly those facing the challenges of lung cancer.