13602, Fort Drum, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13602, Fort Drum, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.08 percent of residents in 13602 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 7.91 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 13602**

The crisp air of Northern New York, a landscape punctuated by the presence of Fort Drum, holds a particular resonance for those seeking healthcare. Assessing the accessibility of lung cancer treatment in ZIP code 13602 demands a thorough examination of its transportation infrastructure. The ability to get to appointments, receive timely care, and navigate the complexities of treatment are paramount. This analysis, therefore, provides a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical resources.

The primary concern centers on the drive times to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers. Watertown, the closest city with significant healthcare facilities, serves as the focal point. Driving from various points within 13602, one is primarily reliant on Interstate 81 (I-81) and State Route 3 (SR-3). The drive to Samaritan Medical Center, the primary hospital in Watertown, can vary significantly depending on the starting location within the ZIP code.

From areas closer to Fort Drum itself, the drive is generally shorter, often around 15 to 20 minutes. However, for residents residing further out, particularly towards the western and southern boundaries of 13602, the commute can extend to 30 minutes or more. This extended travel time, especially during inclement weather common in the region, becomes a significant factor for patients experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. These are real-world challenges.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The primary provider is the Jefferson County Transit System, with routes that may offer some degree of access to healthcare facilities. However, these routes are infrequent, and the coverage within 13602 is sparse. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses is essential for patients with mobility limitations. This is another layer of complexity.

The lack of readily available public transit is a critical weakness. The limited frequency and coverage of bus routes make them impractical for many patients, particularly those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing treatment-related side effects. This dependence on personal vehicles, or the need to arrange rides, creates a significant barrier to healthcare access. The challenges are very real.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Watertown, but their presence in 13602 is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This unreliability adds another layer of uncertainty for patients who may need to schedule rides to and from appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing is not always a viable solution.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution, particularly for patients who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly, placing an additional financial burden on patients. The financial considerations are important.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 13602 is therefore negatively impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access environment. The score reflects the challenges.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond simply getting to appointments. It can affect the timeliness of diagnosis, the ability to receive prompt treatment, and the overall quality of life for lung cancer patients. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can have serious consequences, potentially impacting survival rates and treatment outcomes. The delays are problematic.

For individuals considering moving to Fort Drum or residing within 13602, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider when assessing healthcare access. The proximity to Watertown and the availability of healthcare facilities are important assets, but the challenges of getting there must be carefully weighed. This is a critical consideration.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and transportation assistance programs, can help mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, these resources are not always readily available or accessible to all patients. The availability of support services is not a guarantee.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also considers the potential impact of seasonal variations. Winter weather in Northern New York can be severe, with heavy snowfall and icy road conditions. These conditions can significantly increase drive times, make public transportation unreliable, and pose safety risks for patients traveling to appointments. Winter weather adds a significant challenge.

The score should also reflect the potential for future improvements in transportation infrastructure. The development of new public transportation routes, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the implementation of transportation assistance programs could significantly improve healthcare access in 13602. Improvements are always welcome.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 13602, therefore, is moderately low, reflecting the transportation challenges faced by patients seeking lung cancer care. While access to healthcare facilities in Watertown is available, the difficulties in reaching them, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations, are significant. The challenges are real.

Improving the "Lung Cancer Score" would require a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the frequency and coverage of public transportation, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, expanding medical transportation options, and providing greater support for patients who need assistance with transportation. The improvements are necessary.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a critical tool for understanding the healthcare access landscape in 13602. It highlights the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all patients have the opportunity to receive timely and effective lung cancer care. The goal is to improve healthcare access.