12989, Vermontville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12989, Vermontville, New York is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.96 percent of residents in 12989 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adirondack Medical Center - Saranac Lake with a distance of 11.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Vermontville (ZIP Code 12989)

Vermontville, New York, a charming hamlet nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for residents of ZIP Code 12989, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely access to vital medical care. The score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a nuanced perspective for those considering moving to Vermontville or seeking healthcare within the area.

The primary concern for lung cancer patients is prompt diagnosis and treatment. This necessitates efficient transportation to specialists, imaging centers, and treatment facilities. The "Lung Cancer Score" will therefore weigh the availability and reliability of transportation options against the distances to relevant healthcare providers.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Care**

For residents of Vermontville, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation. The nearest major healthcare hubs are located in Saranac Lake and Plattsburgh. The drive to Saranac Lake, home to Adirondack Medical Center, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey primarily utilizes New York State Route 3, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak travel times and in winter due to snow and ice.

Plattsburgh, a larger city with a broader range of medical specialists and the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), is approximately a 1-hour to 1-hour and 15-minute drive. The route involves traveling on New York State Route 3 and then transitioning to Interstate 87 (the Northway). The Northway is a faster, multi-lane highway, but traffic can be heavy, especially during summer weekends when tourists flock to the Adirondacks.

These drive times, while manageable, underscore the importance of reliable personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic. For individuals undergoing treatment, these travel times can significantly impact their quality of life and the feasibility of adhering to treatment schedules.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Vermontville are limited. The primary provider is the Clinton County Public Transit System (CCPTS), which offers fixed-route and demand-response services. However, the availability of these services in ZIP Code 12989 is restricted. Routes are infrequent, and service areas are often limited to the more populated areas of the county.

The CCPTS does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. However, the infrequency of routes and the potential for long wait times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for individuals needing frequent medical appointments, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The lack of direct routes to Saranac Lake and Plattsburgh further exacerbates the challenges.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area but may be less readily accessible in Vermontville. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, they can be costly, and the availability of NEMT services may require advance booking.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Vermontville, ZIP Code 12989, would reflect the following factors:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** Moderate. While the drive to Saranac Lake is relatively short, the longer drive to Plattsburgh and the potential for delays due to weather and traffic are significant considerations.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** Low. The limited public transit options and infrequent routes pose a significant challenge for healthcare access.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Moderate. Ride-sharing services are available but may be unreliable due to limited driver availability.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Moderate. Medical transport services are available but can be expensive and require advance planning.
* **Healthcare Proximity:** Moderate. The proximity to Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake provides some level of healthcare access. However, the need to travel to Plattsburgh for specialized care and the limited local healthcare infrastructure create a significant transportation burden.

**The Impact of Transportation on Lung Cancer Care**

The challenges posed by transportation limitations are particularly acute for lung cancer patients. Frequent appointments for diagnosis, staging, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and follow-up care are essential. These appointments can be physically and emotionally draining. The added stress of navigating transportation challenges can significantly impact a patient's well-being and their ability to adhere to their treatment plan.

**Moving to Vermontville: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Vermontville, the "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating healthcare access. Those with existing lung cancer or a high risk of developing the disease should prioritize proximity to comprehensive healthcare facilities and reliable transportation options.

While Vermontville offers a serene and beautiful environment, the limitations in transportation infrastructure necessitate careful planning and consideration. Individuals may need to rely on personal vehicles, explore the availability of medical transport services, and factor in longer travel times when scheduling appointments.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Vermontville, ZIP Code 12989, suggests that while healthcare access is available, it is not without its challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing services create a transportation burden for residents.

Individuals with lung cancer or those at high risk must carefully consider these factors when planning their healthcare journey. Proactive planning, including securing reliable transportation, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and exploring available support services, is crucial for ensuring timely and effective care. The scenic beauty of Vermontville should be weighed against the realities of healthcare access, especially for those battling a serious illness. Understanding these factors is paramount when making decisions about healthcare and moving to Vermontville.