12935, Ellenburg Depot, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12935, Ellenburg Depot, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.27 percent of residents in 12935 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 18.63 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Ellenburg Depot (ZIP Code 12935)

Ellenburg Depot, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This assessment analyzes the crucial element of transportation, a significant factor influencing healthcare access for those residing in ZIP Code 12935. We will explore the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for timely and effective healthcare delivery. The overarching goal is to determine a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system in this rural community.

The foundation of healthcare access in Ellenburg Depot rests upon personal **transportation**. For many residents, a private vehicle is the primary mode of travel. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles away, and Burlington, Vermont, about 60 miles distant. The primary route to Plattsburgh involves traveling south on Route 190, a two-lane highway that can experience seasonal variations in road conditions. Route 190 seamlessly merges with Route 22, leading directly into Plattsburgh. The drive typically takes between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.

Reaching Burlington, Vermont, necessitates a more extended journey. This trip involves navigating Route 190 south to Route 22, then east to Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway). From there, travelers proceed south to Exit 39, where they join Route 9, which then connects to Route 11, and finally, Route 7, leading into Burlington. This drive can easily consume 1.5 to 2 hours, posing a significant time commitment for routine check-ups or emergency situations. This is a critical consideration for anyone facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, where timely access to specialists and treatment is paramount.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Ellenburg Depot. The Clinton County Public Transit system offers some services, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, and may not directly serve the specific medical facilities. A potential route might involve a bus to Plattsburgh, followed by a transfer to another route serving the hospital or clinic. However, the reliance on multiple connections and the limited operating hours present significant challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent appointments. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a crucial factor, but the overall accessibility of public transit in this area is a concern.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Plattsburgh, but their presence in Ellenburg Depot is less reliable. Securing a ride in this rural area may require advance booking and could be subject to surge pricing, potentially increasing the financial burden on patients. This variability in availability adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, especially for those without access to a personal vehicle. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, coupled with the potential for higher costs, can create significant barriers to timely medical care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services may provide non-emergency medical transport. These services typically require pre-booking and can be expensive, but they offer a reliable option for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or utilize public transit. The availability of these services in Ellenburg Depot and their coverage of the necessary medical facilities is a crucial factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

The geographical isolation of Ellenburg Depot and the limited **healthcare access** options necessitate careful consideration for those considering **moving to Ellenburg Depot**. The lack of readily available transportation options directly impacts the ability to receive timely diagnoses, specialized care, and ongoing treatment for lung cancer. The drive times to Plattsburgh and Burlington, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the variability of ride-sharing, create significant challenges. The availability and cost of medical transportation services become critical factors in determining the feasibility of accessing healthcare.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Ellenburg Depot (ZIP Code 12935) would be a reflection of these factors. It would consider the average drive times to medical facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the overall accessibility of these options for individuals with varying mobility needs. A low score would indicate significant barriers to healthcare access, while a higher score would suggest more readily available transportation options and a greater ease of navigating the healthcare system.

The challenges presented by the limited transportation options in Ellenburg Depot necessitate proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. Patients may need to rely on family and friends for rides, plan appointments strategically to minimize travel time, and explore all available options for medical transportation. The development of community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs or expanded public transit routes, could significantly improve healthcare access for residents of this rural community.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Ellenburg Depot would likely be negatively impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options. The geographical isolation, coupled with the scarcity of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles, creates significant challenges for those seeking timely and effective healthcare. This assessment underscores the importance of considering **healthcare access** as a critical factor for anyone **moving to Ellenburg Depot**, particularly those with existing health concerns or a higher risk of developing lung cancer. Addressing these transportation challenges through community-based solutions and improved access to specialized medical transportation services is essential to ensuring that all residents have equal opportunities for diagnosis, treatment, and a better quality of life.