12992, West Chazy, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 12992, West Chazy, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.80 percent of residents in 12992 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 7.73 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Chazy, NY (ZIP Code 12992)

The air hangs crisp and clean in West Chazy, New York, a rural community nestled in the Adirondack foothills. But even in this haven of natural beauty, the specter of lung cancer looms. This write-up analyzes the complex relationship between transportation and healthcare access for residents of ZIP code 12992, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to assess the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking timely and effective treatment. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is paramount, especially when battling a disease that demands swift intervention.

Our focus is on the practical realities of getting to appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing supportive care. We'll delve into the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, considering their accessibility, reliability, and potential impact on the well-being of individuals affected by lung cancer. This analysis will prove vital for anyone considering moving to West Chazy, particularly those with pre-existing health concerns.

**The Score:** This "Lung Cancer Score" is a qualitative assessment, considering the availability, accessibility, and convenience of transportation options. It's not a numerical grade, but rather a narrative evaluation that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local infrastructure.

**The Geographic Context:** West Chazy, a town in Clinton County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique transportation challenges. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Plattsburgh, approximately 10 miles to the east, and Burlington, Vermont, roughly 60 miles southeast. This geographic reality significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Highway Network:** The primary arteries connecting West Chazy to healthcare are the roadways. Route 22, a north-south thoroughfare, is the main conduit to Plattsburgh. Route 191 provides access to the more southerly areas. The drive to Plattsburgh Regional Medical Center, the primary healthcare provider for the region, typically takes 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The drive to Burlington, VT, will take at least an hour, dependent on traffic.

**Drive Times and Considerations:** Driving times are crucial, especially for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Rush hour, which can impact travel times, is a factor to consider. Snow and ice during the winter months can significantly extend travel times and pose safety risks. The condition of the roads, especially during inclement weather, can also influence the journey.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options:** Public transportation options in West Chazy are limited. The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) offers bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, making it a less-than-ideal solution for frequent medical appointments. CCPT operates on a demand-response system, requiring advance booking, which adds another layer of complexity. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but availability may vary, and advance notice is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in West Chazy is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer specialized services for patients needing assistance. However, these services can be costly and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

**Medical Transportation Brands:** Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and NEMT providers. Researching these options and understanding their coverage areas and insurance policies is crucial for individuals with lung cancer. These services are often essential for patients who are unable to drive or use public transportation.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Patient:** The journey to healthcare is not merely a physical one; it's also an emotional and logistical one. For lung cancer patients, every minute counts. Delays in accessing treatment can impact outcomes, making transportation a critical determinant of care. The availability of convenient and reliable transportation can significantly reduce stress and improve the overall quality of life for individuals battling this disease.

**The Impact of Transportation Challenges:** Transportation barriers can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatments, and increased stress levels. This can exacerbate the physical and emotional toll of lung cancer. The lack of readily available transportation options can disproportionately affect elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**Moving to West Chazy: A Healthcare Perspective:** Individuals considering moving to West Chazy, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other respiratory illnesses, should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the reliability of ride-sharing services are all critical factors. The need for a reliable vehicle becomes paramount.

**Improving Healthcare Access:** Addressing transportation challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing service frequency could improve access. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could be another solution. Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation companies could streamline the process of scheduling and coordinating transportation.

**The Lung Cancer Score for West Chazy:** The Lung Cancer Score for West Chazy is moderate. While the proximity to Plattsburgh offers relatively easy access to healthcare, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and medical transportation can be costly.

**Conclusion:** For residents of West Chazy facing a lung cancer diagnosis, navigating the transportation landscape is a significant undertaking. The need for a reliable vehicle is essential. The limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. While the proximity to Plattsburgh offers some advantages, the overall Lung Cancer Score is moderate, highlighting the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services to support individuals battling this devastating disease.