13654, Heuvelton, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13654, Heuvelton, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.77 percent of residents in 13654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center with a distance of 7.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Heuvelton, NY (ZIP Code 13654)

The crisp air of the St. Lawrence River Valley, a landscape punctuated by rolling hills and the historic charm of Heuvelton, New York, offers a certain allure. However, for residents facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty of this setting must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," examines the critical element of transportation, a vital link connecting residents to the specialized care they need. It considers the drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial factors in navigating the healthcare landscape within and beyond ZIP Code 13654.

The primary concern for anyone facing a potential lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical expertise. Early detection and treatment are paramount, making the journey to healthcare facilities a matter of life and death. For residents of Heuvelton, this journey is primarily undertaken by personal vehicle. The most direct route to the nearest comprehensive cancer care often involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways.

The journey to the nearest major healthcare hub, the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, is approximately 15 miles. This drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route involves utilizing County Route 28, which transitions into State Route 37. This stretch, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak hours or inclement weather, particularly during the harsh winters common in this region. A more circuitous route might involve using State Route 812 to connect to State Route 37, adding an additional 10 to 15 minutes to the travel time.

For those seeking more specialized cancer care, such as radiation oncology or advanced surgical procedures, the destination often shifts to larger medical centers in Syracuse or Rochester. The drive to Syracuse, approximately 150 miles, involves a journey of around 2.5 to 3 hours, primarily via Interstate 81. This long drive necessitates careful planning, factoring in potential delays and the need for rest stops. The journey to Rochester, roughly 170 miles, takes a similar amount of time, requiring travel along State Route 37, Interstate 81, and possibly the New York State Thruway (I-90).

Public transportation options in Heuvelton are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system provides some service, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients. While the system may offer some routes that pass through Heuvelton, they do not directly connect to major medical centers and often require multiple transfers, making them impractical for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations, but the frequency of these services may be limited.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Heuvelton and surrounding areas is often sporadic. Availability can be particularly challenging during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or emergencies is therefore not a reliable option.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more tailored solution. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring patients can safely and comfortably reach their appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some patients, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand. Potential options include local ambulance services that provide non-emergency transport and private medical transport companies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Heuvelton, considering these transportation factors, is moderate. While the proximity to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center offers reasonable access to basic medical services, the lack of robust public transportation and the unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. The long distances to specialized cancer centers in Syracuse or Rochester, combined with the potential costs of medical transportation, necessitate careful planning and consideration for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

For individuals considering moving to Heuvelton or already residing there, the transportation landscape demands careful evaluation. Those with existing health conditions, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments, should thoroughly assess their ability to navigate the transportation challenges. The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is almost essential. Exploring medical transportation options and understanding the limitations of public transit are crucial steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access.

Furthermore, community initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access are essential. This could include advocating for increased public transportation services, promoting ride-sharing options, or supporting local programs that provide financial assistance for medical transportation. Increased awareness of the transportation challenges and proactive solutions are critical to improving the "Lung Cancer Score" and ensuring that residents of Heuvelton have the best possible chance of battling this devastating disease. The integration of telehealth services, where possible, could also help bridge the geographical gap and improve healthcare access for those living in rural areas.

Ultimately, the success of a lung cancer patient's journey hinges on the ability to navigate the transportation hurdles. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Heuvelton serves as a reminder that the journey to healthcare is not just about medical treatment; it is also about the practical realities of getting there. By understanding the transportation challenges and proactively seeking solutions, residents of Heuvelton can improve their access to life-saving care and increase their chances of a positive outcome.