13607, Alexandria Bay, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13607, Alexandria Bay, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.42 percent of residents in 13607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 0.96 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Alexandria Bay, NY (ZIP Code 13607)

The crisp air and scenic beauty of Alexandria Bay, New York (ZIP Code 13607), beckon those seeking a tranquil life. But before trading city lights for river views, prospective residents must consider a critical factor: access to healthcare, particularly for serious conditions like lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents of this picturesque community.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a numerical grade but a comprehensive evaluation of the logistical challenges involved in receiving timely and effective lung cancer care. It considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation options, all crucial in the face of a potentially life-threatening diagnosis. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, empowering informed decisions for those considering a move to Alexandria Bay.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Alexandria Bay is River Hospital, located directly in the town. However, specialized care, including oncology services, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This introduces the first layer of complexity in our Lung Cancer Score.

The most direct route to larger hospitals typically involves driving. The primary highway connecting Alexandria Bay to the wider region is Interstate 81 (I-81). Heading south on I-81 provides access to Syracuse, New York, home to Upstate University Hospital, a major medical center offering comprehensive cancer care. The drive to Syracuse, a distance of approximately 110 miles, typically takes around two to two and a half hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive time represents a significant consideration, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Alternatively, heading north on I-81 leads to Canada. While some Canadian hospitals offer excellent healthcare, navigating international borders adds another layer of complexity, including potential delays and insurance considerations, making this route less practical for routine cancer care.

Several secondary roads provide alternative routes, though they generally add to the travel time. Route 12, a scenic road that follows the St. Lawrence River, offers a more leisurely drive but often involves slower speeds and potential for increased congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Route 26, running east, connects to smaller towns and eventually links to I-81. However, this route is also less direct and could add to travel time.

Public transportation options in Alexandria Bay are limited. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) operates a network of buses within Jefferson County, but service to Alexandria Bay is infrequent, and routes are primarily designed for local travel, not long-distance trips to major hospitals. Furthermore, the JCTS may not offer routes specifically designed for medical appointments, and the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, needs to be verified on a route-by-route basis. Public transit, therefore, presents a significant challenge for individuals requiring frequent cancer care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be variable, especially in a rural setting like Alexandria Bay. The cost of a ride-share to Syracuse could be substantial, making it a less viable option for frequent trips. Availability is also a concern, as drivers may be scarce, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. This lack of consistent transportation significantly impacts healthcare access.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with travel to medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services can be expensive and require advance booking, adding another layer of planning and coordination. The availability of medical transportation in Alexandria Bay and the surrounding areas should be carefully researched, including insurance coverage and the specific services offered.

The Lung Cancer Score for Alexandria Bay, considering these transportation limitations, is moderately challenging. While River Hospital offers local medical services, the need for specialized oncology care in Syracuse or other regional centers necessitates significant travel. The reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services adds stress and inconvenience, particularly for patients undergoing treatment. The limited public transit options and the cost of medical transportation further complicate the picture.

Moving to Alexandria Bay offers a lifestyle change, but healthcare access is a critical consideration. Potential residents, especially those with pre-existing conditions or those concerned about future health needs, should thoroughly investigate transportation options and assess the potential impact on their ability to receive timely and effective cancer care.

The Lung Cancer Score assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals considering a move should:

* **Research the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.**
* **Investigate the costs and availability of medical transportation services.**
* **Confirm insurance coverage for transportation to medical appointments.**
* **Consider the potential impact of weather and seasonal traffic on travel times.**
* **Factor in the time commitment required for travel to and from appointments.**

By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Alexandria Bay is the right place for them, ensuring that their healthcare needs are met. The beauty of Alexandria Bay is undeniable, but a clear understanding of the transportation landscape is crucial for safeguarding health and well-being.