13634, Dexter, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13634, Dexter, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.08 percent of residents in 13634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13634 (Dexter, New York)**

The air, crisp and clean, of Dexter, New York (ZIP Code 13634), beckons with the promise of a slower pace. But before you pack your bags and dream of lakeside living, let’s delve into a critical aspect of life in this charming community: healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score, a hypothetical metric, considers the ease of reaching specialized medical facilities from your potential Dexter home, factoring in transportation options.

The primary concern for anyone considering a move, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of lung cancer, is the availability of timely and effective medical care. This analysis focuses on commute times, accessibility via various transportation methods, and the overall feasibility of receiving necessary treatments, including diagnosis, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

Dexter, nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Ontario, presents a driving landscape dictated by its location. The primary artery is New York State Route 180, a vital link connecting Dexter to the larger towns and cities where advanced medical care resides. Traveling south on Route 180, you'll find yourself quickly intersecting with U.S. Route 11, a major north-south thoroughfare that provides access to Watertown, the closest city with significant healthcare infrastructure.

The drive to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, a key healthcare provider for the region, is approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 180 and Route 11. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for Dexter residents, especially in emergency situations or for routine appointments. The hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

Further afield, but still within a reasonable driving distance, is Crouse Hospital in Syracuse, roughly a 1.5- to 2-hour drive via I-81 South. Crouse Hospital provides specialized lung cancer treatment, including advanced surgical techniques and access to clinical trials. While the drive is longer, it opens up additional treatment options for those seeking specialized care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Dexter are limited. Jefferson County, where Dexter is located, offers a local bus service, but its routes and frequency are not designed for easy access to healthcare facilities in Watertown or Syracuse. The bus routes primarily serve local needs, such as trips to grocery stores or local businesses.

For individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive, relying solely on public transit presents a significant challenge. This limitation impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as the lack of convenient public transportation can delay or impede access to critical medical appointments and treatments. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

ADA accessibility on the local bus system is a crucial consideration. The buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited route network and frequency of service can still pose difficulties for those requiring regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Dexter is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. This makes ride-sharing a potentially unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable solution. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing door-to-door service for individuals needing assistance. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, ensuring safe and comfortable transport.

The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required. However, the availability of these services is a positive factor in the Lung Cancer Score, providing a crucial link to healthcare for those unable to drive or utilize public transit.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Dexter, NY (ZIP Code 13634) considers the following factors: the relatively short drive to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, the limited public transportation options, the potential reliance on ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation.

The proximity to Samaritan Medical Center is a significant advantage, providing access to comprehensive cancer care within a reasonable timeframe. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. The availability of medical transportation services helps mitigate these challenges, ensuring access to healthcare for those in need.

**Moving to Dexter: Weighing the Options**

For individuals considering a move to Dexter, the Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the drive to Watertown is manageable, the lack of robust public transit necessitates careful planning.

Individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk should prioritize access to reliable transportation. This may involve owning a vehicle, utilizing medical transportation services, or relying on family or friends for assistance.

Dexter offers a peaceful lifestyle and a close-knit community. However, potential residents must assess their healthcare needs and ensure they have a viable transportation plan in place. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about whether Dexter is the right place to call home. The Lung Cancer Score, while hypothetical, serves as a reminder to prioritize healthcare access when choosing a new community.