13637, Evans Mills, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13637, Evans Mills, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.84 percent of residents in 13637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Evans Mills, NY (ZIP Code 13637)**

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding prompt and efficient healthcare access. For residents of Evans Mills, New York (ZIP Code 13637), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is significantly shaped by the available transportation infrastructure. This report assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for this community, considering the complexities of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. We will explore the drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, all crucial factors in a patient's ability to seek and receive timely medical attention.

Evans Mills, a rural community nestled in Jefferson County, presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of specialized medical services, particularly those related to lung cancer, is often concentrated in larger urban centers. This necessitates reliable transportation to reach these facilities. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can navigate the transportation landscape to access vital healthcare resources.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Evans Mills is the personal vehicle. The time it takes to reach critical healthcare facilities is heavily dependent on the road network. The nearest major healthcare hubs, offering specialized lung cancer care, are located in Watertown, New York, and potentially Syracuse, New York.

The most direct route to Watertown involves traveling south on Interstate 81 (I-81). This is a well-maintained highway, generally providing a smooth and efficient journey. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time. The drive to Watertown, approximately 15 miles, can typically be completed in under 20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, inclement weather, such as snow or heavy rain, common in this region, can easily extend this travel time, potentially doubling it.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to Syracuse, approximately 90 miles south. This journey also involves I-81, but the longer distance and potential for traffic congestion in the Syracuse metropolitan area mean a significantly longer travel time, typically around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. This extended travel time can be a major barrier for patients requiring frequent appointments, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. The availability of parking at these facilities is also a factor to consider.

Secondary roads, such as New York State Route 3, provide alternative routes, but they are generally slower and may not be as well-maintained, especially during winter months. These routes might be useful in avoiding traffic on I-81, but the trade-off is a longer travel time. The condition of these secondary roads can also impact the safety and comfort of the journey, particularly for patients who may be experiencing physical limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Evans Mills are extremely limited. Jefferson County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are often inadequate to meet the needs of residents seeking healthcare access. Service is primarily focused on connecting the larger towns and cities within the county, and the frequency of service is often limited to weekdays during business hours.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. While the county strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can still pose challenges. Patients with lung cancer often experience fatigue and shortness of breath, making long travel times on public transit particularly difficult.

The lack of robust public transportation options underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for healthcare access in Evans Mills. This can be a significant disadvantage for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to their illness, or have limited financial resources.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their availability in Evans Mills itself can be unpredictable. The limited population density and demand in the rural areas may mean longer wait times or higher fares. This can create a significant financial burden for patients who rely on these services for transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained drivers. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of medical transportation services in Evans Mills and the surrounding areas is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Evans Mills, NY (ZIP Code 13637) is significantly impacted by the challenges in transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services create barriers to timely healthcare access. The extended travel times to reach specialized medical facilities in Watertown or Syracuse can delay diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can also lead to increased stress and anxiety for patients and their families. The financial burden of transportation costs can further exacerbate the challenges of managing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Moving to Evans Mills: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Evans Mills, the availability of healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The limitations in transportation options, particularly for those with chronic health conditions, can significantly impact their quality of life. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the feasibility of accessing healthcare services in the surrounding areas.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Transportation Solutions**

The Lung Cancer Score for Evans Mills highlights the critical need for improved transportation solutions to enhance healthcare access. This could include expanding public transit routes and frequency, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation providers. Investing in these transportation improvements would significantly improve the lives of residents, particularly those battling lung cancer, ensuring they can receive the timely and comprehensive care they deserve. The long-term well-being of the community hinges on addressing these transportation challenges and creating a more accessible healthcare landscape.