12979, Rouses Point, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12979, Rouses Point, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.09 percent of residents in 12979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 46.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rouses Point (ZIP Code 12979)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, and timely access to quality healthcare is paramount for diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, survival. This analysis, tailored for residents of Rouses Point, New York (ZIP Code 12979), delves into the complexities of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**, culminating in a Lung Cancer Score. This score aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities faced when seeking lung cancer-related care, considering the unique geographical context of this border town. For those **moving to Rouses Point**, this information is crucial for informed decision-making regarding their health and well-being.

Rouses Point, nestled at the northernmost point of New York State, presents a unique set of challenges for healthcare access. Its relative isolation, coupled with the limited availability of specialized medical services in the immediate vicinity, necessitates a reliance on **transportation** networks to reach centers equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. The ability to navigate these networks efficiently and reliably is a critical factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary route for accessing advanced medical care from Rouses Point is generally south towards Plattsburgh, the closest city with significant healthcare infrastructure. This journey, however, is not without its complexities. The most direct route is via US Route 9, a major north-south artery. Under ideal conditions, a drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a key facility for lung cancer treatment, typically takes around 30 minutes.

However, this drive time is susceptible to variations. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours, can extend the journey. Winter weather conditions, a frequent occurrence in the Adirondack region, pose a significant threat. Snow and ice can make US Route 9 treacherous, potentially doubling or tripling travel times, and increasing the risk of accidents. The secondary routes, such as Route 276 and local roads, offer limited alternatives and may be even more affected by adverse weather.

For specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further, potentially to Burlington, Vermont, or even Montreal, Canada. The drive to Burlington, via I-87 South and I-89 North, can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing wait times. Montreal, accessible via I-87 North and Autoroute 15, is roughly a 2-hour drive, but requires international travel considerations. These longer distances significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score, increasing the time and effort required to access critical care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Rouses Point are limited. The Clinton County Public **Transportation** system offers some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily focused on local travel. There is no direct public **transportation** route connecting Rouses Point to Plattsburgh. This lack of reliable public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

For individuals with disabilities, the lack of accessible public **transportation** options exacerbates the challenges. While the Clinton County Public **Transportation** system is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, the limited routes and schedules make it difficult to utilize for medical appointments. This further reduces the Lung Cancer Score for those requiring such assistance.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Rouses Point itself is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-share services for medical appointments can be risky, as delays or cancellations can disrupt treatment schedules.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** providers. These services typically offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients are safely transported to their appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and the cost can be a barrier to **healthcare access** for some individuals.

**Impact on Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Rouses Point residents reflects the confluence of these factors. The score considers the drive times, the limitations of public **transportation**, the availability of ride-share services, and the cost of medical **transportation**. It also takes into account the potential for weather-related delays and the need for longer journeys to access specialized care.

The limited **transportation** options and the distances to specialized medical facilities contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score. This score highlights the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely and effective lung cancer care.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For residents of Rouses Point, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a reliable **transportation** plan is crucial. This might involve maintaining a well-maintained vehicle, coordinating with family or friends for rides, or exploring the availability of medical **transportation** services.

When **moving to Rouses Point**, individuals should carefully consider the implications of the local **transportation** landscape on their **healthcare access**. Researching local healthcare providers, understanding the **transportation** options available, and establishing a network of support are all vital steps.

Advocating for improved public **transportation** services and increased access to ride-share programs would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for residents. Supporting initiatives that promote telehealth and remote patient monitoring could also mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a reflection of the evolving **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents of Rouses Point can take proactive steps to ensure they receive the timely and effective care they need.