13628, Deferiet, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13628, Deferiet, New York is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.89 percent of residents in 13628 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carthage Area Hospital, Inc with a distance of 5.72 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deferiet, NY (ZIP Code 13628)**

The crisp air of Deferiet, New York, whispers of a life steeped in history, where the Black River carves its path through the landscape. But for residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the idyllic setting can become a challenge. Assessing healthcare access in ZIP code 13628 demands a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape, a crucial factor in the timely delivery of potentially life-saving care. This analysis, the "Lung Cancer Score," examines the hurdles and opportunities in navigating healthcare access, a critical consideration for anyone moving to Deferiet.

The primary concern revolves around the distance to specialized medical facilities. The closest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Watertown, approximately 20 miles away. This seemingly manageable distance, however, is significantly impacted by transportation limitations, particularly for individuals weakened by illness or lacking personal vehicles.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and Distance**

The most direct route to Watertown from Deferiet involves a drive primarily on NY-26. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions, especially during the harsh winters common to the region. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes under ideal conditions. However, a snowstorm or icy roads can easily double or triple the travel time, posing a significant risk for patients requiring urgent care or scheduled treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Another option involves using NY-3, which offers a slightly longer but potentially less congested route, depending on traffic patterns. This route adds about 10 minutes to the travel time. The absence of readily available roadside assistance in this rural area further complicates matters. A breakdown or flat tire can quickly turn a routine medical appointment into a major ordeal.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Deferiet are extremely limited. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) provides some service in the area, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve Deferiet. Furthermore, the JCTS primarily focuses on serving the city of Watertown and surrounding towns.

While JCTS buses are ADA-accessible, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times make them a less-than-ideal solution for patients requiring frequent medical appointments. Patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that causes fatigue or nausea face significant challenges in relying on public transportation. The lack of convenient connections and the potential for extended travel times further exacerbate the difficulties.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Watertown, but their presence in Deferiet is sporadic and unreliable. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for patients, particularly those with limited incomes or extensive treatment regimens.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, offer a more reliable option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal transportation, and pre-booking is usually required. The availability of these services can also be limited, particularly during peak demand periods.

**Healthcare Access: A Complex Equation**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Deferiet, NY, reflects a challenging landscape for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertainties of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for patients. The distance to specialized cancer centers, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, adds to the complexity.

The score is not simply a number; it's a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer in this rural community. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and ultimately, a diminished quality of life.

**Considerations for Moving to Deferiet**

For individuals considering a move to Deferiet, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation options, the financial implications of medical transport, and the potential for travel-related stress should be a central part of the decision-making process.

Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should carefully evaluate the healthcare access landscape before relocating. Proximity to a major hospital or cancer center, the availability of reliable transportation, and the financial resources to cover medical transport costs are critical factors to consider.

**The Future of Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Deferiet requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and subsidizing medical transport costs are all potential solutions. Telehealth services, while not a complete replacement for in-person care, can help bridge the gap by providing remote consultations and monitoring.

Community outreach programs aimed at educating residents about available resources and providing assistance with transportation arrangements are also essential. Addressing the transportation challenges in Deferiet is not just about improving healthcare access; it's about ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to receive timely and effective medical care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities; it's about the ability of individuals to reach those facilities when they need them. For residents of Deferiet, navigating this complex landscape requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a strong understanding of the transportation options available.