12953, Malone, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12953, Malone, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.74 percent of residents in 12953 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 1.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 12953

The air in Malone, New York, a town nestled in the Adirondack foothills, is crisp, the scenery breathtaking. But for residents of ZIP Code 12953, the beauty of their surroundings is often juxtaposed with the challenges of accessing vital healthcare, particularly when facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite measure reflecting the ease with which residents can access diagnostic and treatment services, focusing on the critical element of **transportation**. Understanding the **transportation** landscape is paramount, directly impacting **healthcare access** and influencing decisions for those **moving to Malone** or already residing there.

Our score considers various modes of **transportation**, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Each element is weighted based on its practical utility and the specific needs of lung cancer patients, who often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals in their journey to receive timely and effective care.

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

For most residents of 12953, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The drive times, however, are often a significant factor. The nearest major hospital, Alice Hyde Medical Center, is located within Malone itself, a crucial advantage. However, specialized oncology services, including radiation therapy, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

Driving to Plattsburgh, approximately 60 miles east on State Route 37 and then onto Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway), takes roughly one hour and fifteen minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling the duration. The Northway, a major artery, provides a relatively direct route, though the potential for delays due to accidents or inclement weather remains a concern.

Alternatively, for those seeking care further afield, the drive to Burlington, Vermont, requires crossing the border and traversing roughly 100 miles. This route involves navigating Route 11, then Route 105, and finally, Interstate 89. This journey, taking approximately two hours, can be complicated by border crossing procedures and potential traffic congestion in Burlington.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in 12953 are limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. The Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation system offers bus routes, but service frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly for trips outside of Malone.

Bus Route 1, for example, primarily serves the town of Malone, with limited connections to surrounding areas. Route 2 provides service to Chateaugay and beyond. The schedules, however, may not align with medical appointment times, and evening and weekend service is often unavailable. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. All public buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, but the limited route options still present challenges.

For those considering **moving to Malone**, the reliance on personal vehicles or the potential need for alternative **transportation** solutions is a crucial factor to consider. The lack of robust public transit necessitates careful planning and potentially impacts the feasibility of accessing specialized cancer care.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic and availability can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including those offering non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands**
* **American Medical Response (AMR)**: Provides ambulance and non-emergency medical transport.
* **CareRide Medical Transport**: Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Senior Solutions**: Offers transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

Our Lung Cancer Score for 12953 is a multifaceted evaluation. Drive times to Alice Hyde Medical Center receive the highest weighting due to its proximity and the availability of basic services. The Plattsburgh route, while longer, is crucial for accessing specialized care, and its impact is weighted accordingly. The limitations of public transit significantly detract from the score, highlighting the need for alternative **transportation** solutions. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services are also factored in, providing a more complete picture of the **healthcare access** landscape.

The score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer in this rural setting. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, the potential need for financial assistance to cover **transportation** costs, and the crucial role of community support networks.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

For individuals residing in or **moving to Malone**, the challenges of **transportation** significantly impact **healthcare access** for lung cancer patients. While the presence of Alice Hyde Medical Center offers a vital local resource, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to regional centers. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or costly alternative **transportation** services create a complex landscape.

This Lung Cancer Score is a call to action. It highlights the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** in 12953. This includes exploring options to enhance public **transportation**, increasing the availability of affordable medical transport services, and providing financial assistance to those struggling with **transportation** costs. By understanding the challenges and proactively addressing them, we can strive to ensure that all residents of 12953 have equal access to the life-saving care they deserve.