13650, Henderson, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13650, Henderson, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.75 percent of residents in 13650 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 17.96 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Henderson, NY (ZIP Code 13650)

The crisp air of Henderson, New York (ZIP code 13650), nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, offers a certain allure. But before you consider moving to Henderson, particularly if you're a smoker or have a family history of lung cancer, understanding the realities of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation to healthcare facilities. This is vital for early detection, treatment, and ongoing care.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in accessing specialized lung cancer care within and around Henderson. This assessment aims to empower informed decisions about your health and the suitability of this community.

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

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Henderson. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating the network of roads. The nearest hospital with comprehensive cancer care is Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately 25 miles east. This journey typically takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the season.

The primary route involves taking County Route 12, a winding road that offers scenic views of the countryside. This road merges onto State Route 3, a major thoroughfare that leads directly into Watertown. The speed limit along these routes varies, and traffic can be heavier during peak hours, especially on State Route 3.

Another option is to travel south on County Route 12, then east on I-81. This route is longer, approximately 40 miles, and takes roughly 45-60 minutes. While I-81 is a high-speed highway, it can be subject to delays due to construction or accidents. The choice of route depends on individual preferences and real-time traffic updates.

For specialized lung cancer care, such as radiation therapy or advanced surgical procedures, you might need to travel further afield to Syracuse, approximately 80 miles south. This trip, primarily via I-81, can take 1.5 to 2 hours. This longer travel time significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Henderson is limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are not designed for convenient access to medical facilities. JCT's services are primarily focused on serving the city of Watertown, with limited routes extending into the surrounding rural areas.

The JCT route that comes closest to Henderson is Route 12. However, this route primarily serves the towns of Henderson and Henderson Harbor, and does not directly connect with healthcare facilities. The frequency of service on this route is limited, with buses running on a reduced schedule, particularly on weekends.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses on these routes is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability and reliability of these services is essential. For those relying on public transit, healthcare access becomes a significant challenge.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Henderson is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not always feasible.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be costly.

**The Lung Cancer Score: Weighing the Factors**

The Lung Cancer Score for Henderson (ZIP code 13650) reflects a mixed picture. The drive times to Watertown are manageable, but the longer travel times to Syracuse pose a significant barrier. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access.

The score is also influenced by the potential impact of weather conditions. Winter in Upstate New York can bring heavy snowfall and icy roads, making travel more difficult and increasing the risk of delays or cancellations. This can be particularly problematic for patients undergoing treatment or requiring frequent follow-up appointments.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Henderson**

If you are considering moving to Henderson and have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk, several factors warrant careful consideration. First, assess your transportation needs and capabilities. If you rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations, healthcare access may be significantly challenging.

Second, explore the availability of support services, such as family, friends, or community organizations, who can provide transportation assistance. Third, investigate the availability of medical transportation services and their associated costs. Fourth, factor in the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.

Finally, discuss your healthcare needs with your physician and explore the availability of telemedicine options. This can help reduce the need for frequent travel. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about the suitability of Henderson for your healthcare needs.

This assessment provides a framework for understanding the challenges of healthcare access in Henderson. The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a definitive rating, but rather a starting point for a more in-depth evaluation. Remember, your health is paramount, and making informed decisions about transportation and healthcare access is essential.