12978, Redford, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12978, Redford, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.42 percent of residents in 12978 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adirondack Medical Center - Saranac Lake with a distance of 25.08 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Redford, NY (ZIP Code 12978)**

The crisp air of the Adirondacks, the rustling leaves of autumn, the quiet beauty of the Ausable River – Redford, New York (ZIP Code 12978) offers a certain rural charm. However, when considering a move to this tranquil haven, especially for those with a history of or concerns about lung cancer, it is crucial to assess the realities of healthcare access. This write-up, a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape and its implications for receiving timely and effective care, a critical factor for anyone prioritizing their health.

The primary concern revolves around transportation; the ability to reach medical appointments, particularly those involving specialized treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, is paramount. This is especially true for individuals facing the physical challenges often associated with lung cancer. The "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates this access, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Arteries of Care**

For residents of Redford, the journey to healthcare often begins on local roads. The primary route to Plattsburgh, the nearest city offering comprehensive medical facilities, typically involves navigating **New York State Route 374** and then connecting to **Interstate 87 (The Northway)**. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a major healthcare provider, usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

During peak commuting hours, the drive can extend, adding stress and potential delays for appointments. This time factor becomes even more critical when considering emergency situations or the need for urgent care. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers this variability, acknowledging the potential for increased travel times to impact treatment schedules and overall well-being.

Further afield, Burlington, Vermont, offers additional healthcare options, including the University of Vermont Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer center. The drive to Burlington involves traversing **Interstate 87 (The Northway)** north, crossing into Vermont, and then connecting to **Interstate 89**. This journey, however, is significantly longer, typically taking around two hours, making it less practical for routine appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Redford are limited. The local bus service, operated by Clinton County Public Transit, offers routes that may reach Plattsburgh, but the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not directly serve medical facilities. The bus schedules need to be carefully checked for their suitability for medical appointments.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the bus system is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges, a common concern for those battling lung cancer. The availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations must be verified to ensure comfortable and safe transportation. The "Lung Cancer Score" weighs the practicality and accessibility of public transit, recognizing its limitations in this rural setting.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, offering an alternative to driving. However, their availability in Redford can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing requires careful planning and advance booking to ensure reliable transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and others provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services, while often more expensive than ride-sharing, provide a crucial link to healthcare for individuals unable to drive or use public transit. The "Lung Cancer Score" acknowledges the importance of these specialized services, recognizing their role in facilitating healthcare access.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and Moving to Redford**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Redford, NY (ZIP Code 12978) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Plattsburgh offers relatively quick access to basic healthcare, the limited public transportation, the potential for increased drive times, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport for those without personal vehicles raise concerns.

For individuals considering moving to Redford with a history of or concerns about lung cancer, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for assistance, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" encourages proactive planning. Before making a move, individuals should:

* **Contact CVPH and other healthcare providers** in the Plattsburgh area to confirm appointment scheduling and transportation assistance options.
* **Research the availability and cost** of ride-sharing and medical transport services in Redford.
* **Assess the accessibility** of local public transit options and their suitability for medical appointments.
* **Consider the impact of weather** and seasonal changes on travel times and transportation availability.

Moving to Redford can offer a fulfilling lifestyle. However, for those prioritizing healthcare access, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is critical. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for making informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare needs are met in this beautiful but geographically isolated corner of New York State. The ability to navigate the transportation challenges is a key factor in maintaining quality of life and receiving timely, effective care, especially for those facing the complexities of lung cancer.