12944, Keeseville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12944, Keeseville, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.54 percent of residents in 12944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 14.29 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Keeseville, NY (ZIP Code 12944)**

The Adirondack town of Keeseville, nestled in the heart of New York State, presents a unique landscape for its residents. The majestic mountains and serene lakes offer a quality of life many seek, yet the very geography that defines this beauty also shapes the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the challenges and opportunities for individuals in ZIP code 12944 seeking timely and effective care, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the complexities of **transportation** options is critical, as delays can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The score considers factors such as drive times to medical facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. It also weighs the impact of these factors on individuals facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the landscape for anyone **moving to Keeseville** or currently residing there, and to highlight areas where improvements are needed to ensure equitable **healthcare access**.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Care**

For residents of Keeseville, the automobile is often the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare. The proximity to larger medical centers is a key consideration. Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles east, offers a range of medical services, including those relevant to lung cancer care. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The primary route is via US Route 9, a major north-south artery that connects Keeseville to Plattsburgh. This road, though generally well-maintained, can experience delays, especially during peak commuting hours or in inclement weather. Another option is to take NY Route 22, which offers a more scenic route but may add to the travel time.

Further afield, Burlington, Vermont, offers specialized medical services, including advanced cancer treatment centers. The drive to Burlington, primarily via Interstate 87 (the Northway) and then across Lake Champlain, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic and the ferry schedule. This longer travel time significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for patients requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Keeseville are limited. The Clinton County Public Transportation system provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules are not specifically tailored to medical appointments. The frequency of service is often low, and the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities. This makes public transit a less viable option for many, especially those with mobility limitations or who require timely access to care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While the Clinton County Public Transportation system strives to provide accessible vehicles, the overall coverage and frequency of service remain a challenge. Patients with mobility issues may face significant difficulties using public transit for medical appointments, further impacting their **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 may have limited presence in Keeseville itself. The availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. For patients requiring transportation to medical appointments, the reliability of ride-sharing can be a concern.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, while NEMT services provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services are particularly important for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their medical condition.

However, the cost of medical transport services can be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for some individuals. Insurance coverage for NEMT services varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial. The availability of these services, especially for frequent appointments, is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Lung Cancer Score for Keeseville, NY (ZIP code 12944) is not simply a numerical value. It is a comprehensive assessment of the factors influencing a patient's ability to access timely and effective lung cancer care. The score considers the following elements:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to medical facilities in Plattsburgh and Burlington, considering traffic and weather conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, routes, and ADA accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability, cost, and insurance coverage of ambulance and NEMT services.
* **Patient Demographics:** The age, income, and health status of the population, as these factors can influence the ability to access care.

**Impact on Patients: The Human Element**

The challenges of **transportation** in Keeseville can have a significant impact on patients facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis. Delays in accessing care can lead to delayed diagnoses, which can reduce the chances of successful treatment. Frequent travel for appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can be physically and emotionally draining, especially for patients who are already experiencing the effects of their illness.

The financial burden of **transportation** costs, including gas, parking, and medical transport services, can add to the stress of a cancer diagnosis. For individuals with limited incomes, these costs can be a major barrier to **healthcare access**.

**Recommendations: Improving the Score**

To improve the Lung Cancer Score for Keeseville, several steps can be taken:

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increase the frequency and routes of public transit services, with a focus on serving medical facilities. Ensure all buses are ADA-accessible.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Partner with ride-sharing companies to increase their presence and availability in Keeseville.
* **Expand Medical Transport:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transport services, including NEMT. Advocate for improved insurance coverage for these services.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Promote the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for follow-up care and consultations.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about available **transportation** options and resources for accessing healthcare.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Lung Cancer Score for Keeseville, NY (ZIP code 12944) highlights the complexities of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. While the beauty of the Adirondacks is undeniable, the challenges of **transportation** must be addressed to ensure that all residents have equal access to the care they need. By implementing the recommendations outlined above, the community can improve the Lung Cancer Score and provide a better quality of life for those **moving to Keeseville** and those already calling it home. It is a collective responsibility to build a healthcare system that is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all residents.