12958, Mooers, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12958, Mooers, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.98 percent of residents in 12958 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 35.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mooers, NY (ZIP Code 12958)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding immediate and expert medical attention. For residents of Mooers, New York (ZIP Code 12958), the reality of healthcare access is intricately woven with the threads of transportation, a vital element impacting survival and quality of life. This Lung Cancer Score delves into the specifics of navigating the healthcare landscape, offering a critical assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing those who call Mooers home. Considering the potential for a lung cancer diagnosis, the ability to quickly and reliably reach specialized care is paramount.

Mooers, a rural community nestled in the northern reaches of New York State, presents a unique set of transportation hurdles. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Plattsburgh, roughly 20 miles south, and Burlington, Vermont, a drive of approximately 70 miles east. These distances, while seemingly manageable, become significant when compounded by the urgency of a medical crisis, unpredictable weather, and the limitations of available transportation options. The ability to quickly access healthcare, especially for time-sensitive conditions like lung cancer, is a crucial factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score.

The primary mode of transportation for most Mooers residents is the personal vehicle. The journey to Plattsburgh typically involves traversing Route 11, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy truck traffic, particularly during peak hours. The drive, under ideal conditions, averages around 30 minutes, but this can be significantly extended by inclement weather common in the region, like snow and ice during the winter months. Route 22, another major artery, offers an alternative route but can also be subject to traffic congestion. The roads are mostly well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means emergency services, including ambulances, may have longer response times.

Venturing to Burlington, Vermont, expands the transportation challenge. The drive necessitates navigating Route 11 to Interstate 87 (The Northway) and then connecting to Interstate 89. This journey, while primarily on interstate highways, involves crossing state lines and potentially encountering border patrol checkpoints. The longer distance and potential for delays due to traffic, weather, or unforeseen circumstances further complicate healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of car ownership and the financial burden of maintaining a reliable vehicle, especially for those facing the financial strain of a cancer diagnosis.

Public transportation options in Mooers are limited. The Clinton County Public Transit system (CCPT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of the county's larger population centers, such as Plattsburgh. Regular routes to Plattsburgh may exist, but the frequency and availability of these services, especially for early morning or late evening appointments, may be insufficient for the needs of lung cancer patients. The CCPT does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, but the routes and schedules should be verified. The availability of public transportation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it provides an alternative for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Mooers is less certain. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is often unreliable and expensive. The cost can quickly accumulate, adding to the financial burden of cancer treatment. Medical transport services, such as specialized ambulance services or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a more reliable, albeit costly, option. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but their availability and cost should be carefully investigated.

The impact of healthcare access on the Lung Cancer Score is substantial. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact survival rates and overall quality of life. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a comprehensive cancer center is paramount. The challenges of transportation in Mooers, including the distance to specialized care, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score. The score is further impacted by the financial burden of transportation, the availability of support services, and the potential for delays due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

For individuals considering moving to Mooers, the availability of healthcare access should be a critical factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing specialized cancer care. Researching the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options is essential. Understanding the potential costs associated with transportation and the availability of financial assistance programs is also crucial.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 12958 reflects the complex interplay between transportation and healthcare access. The rural nature of Mooers presents significant challenges, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. However, by understanding the challenges and exploring available resources, residents can proactively mitigate the impact of transportation barriers and ensure timely access to life-saving care. Moving to Mooers requires a careful consideration of these factors to ensure access to the best possible healthcare outcomes.