12942, Keene, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12942, Keene, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.61 percent of residents in 12942 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 12942

This report provides a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for residents of ZIP Code 12942, assessing the accessibility of healthcare services crucial for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score considers various transportation options available, recognizing that effective transportation is paramount to timely healthcare access, especially for individuals facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Keene, New York, and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access within the region.

ZIP Code 12942 encompasses the town of Keene, nestled within the Adirondack Mountains. This geographic location presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The primary healthcare provider in the area is the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, approximately 30 miles away. The drive to Saranac Lake, the nearest center for comprehensive lung cancer care, is a significant factor in our score.

The primary route to Saranac Lake from Keene is via **New York State Route 73** and **New York State Route 86**. The drive typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. During the winter months, snow and ice can significantly extend travel times and increase the risk of accidents, impacting healthcare access. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter, becomes a critical factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score.

Alternative routes are limited. Residents might consider taking **County Route 84** to connect with **New York State Route 3**. However, this route is less direct and often involves traversing more winding roads, potentially increasing travel time. These routes are less frequently maintained during inclement weather.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The primary provider is the **North Country Public Transportation (NCPT)**. While NCPT offers some services, the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to accommodate the needs of patients requiring frequent medical appointments. The buses, identified by route numbers, may not provide direct service to the Adirondack Medical Center.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on NCPT buses is crucial. Individuals with mobility limitations, often a consequence of lung cancer treatment or related conditions, require reliable accessible transportation. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the availability and reliability of ADA-compliant transportation options. The NCPT website provides details on routes, schedules, and accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Keene area. Their availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unpredictability poses a significant challenge for patients needing timely access to medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score accounts for the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services are available, but their cost can be a significant barrier for some patients. These services often specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability, cost, and reliability of these specialized transportation providers. The primary medical transport providers in the area include private ambulance services.

The healthcare access landscape in ZIP Code 12942 is significantly influenced by its geographic location. The distance to the Adirondack Medical Center, the primary center for lung cancer care, is a major factor. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, the limited public transportation options, and the challenges posed by weather conditions all contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of local primary care physicians and specialists within Keene. While these providers may not offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment, they play a crucial role in early detection, symptom management, and providing referrals to specialists at the Adirondack Medical Center. The proximity and availability of these local healthcare providers positively influence the score.

The score also considers the availability of support services for lung cancer patients, such as support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs. These services can be vital for patients navigating the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of lung cancer. The accessibility of these support services, and their proximity to transportation options, is factored into the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 12942 is not merely a number; it's a reflection of the practical realities of healthcare access for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It highlights the importance of considering transportation challenges when evaluating the suitability of this location for individuals with lung cancer or those considering moving to Keene.

For individuals considering moving to Keene, understanding the transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should factor in the potential costs of transportation, the time commitment required for medical appointments, and the limitations of public transportation. They should also consider the availability of support services and the potential need for specialized medical transportation.

In conclusion, while Keene offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 12942 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access, particularly regarding transportation. The distance to specialized care, the limited public transportation options, and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful consideration for individuals with lung cancer or those planning to relocate to the area. The score underscores the importance of proactive planning and exploring all available transportation options to ensure timely access to vital healthcare services.