13656, La Fargeville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13656, La Fargeville, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.36 percent of residents in 13656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 10.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in La Fargeville, NY (ZIP Code 13656)

The crisp air of La Fargeville, New York, nestled along the scenic St. Lawrence River, offers a tranquility that belies the complexities of accessing healthcare, particularly for those facing a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This analysis, a “Lung Cancer Score” write-up, meticulously examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 13656, a critical factor influencing healthcare access for potential and current residents. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities for individuals navigating the journey from diagnosis to treatment.

The concept of "healthcare access" extends far beyond the mere presence of medical facilities. It encompasses the ease with which a patient can reach those facilities, considering factors like distance, available transportation options, and the physical limitations that may accompany a lung cancer diagnosis. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these aspects, offering a practical guide for residents and those considering moving to La Fargeville.

The primary challenge for residents of La Fargeville is its relative isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical centers are located in Watertown, approximately 25 miles to the south. This distance, while seemingly manageable, translates into significant travel times, particularly during inclement weather, which is common in the region. The primary route to Watertown is via NY-12, a two-lane highway that can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Driving time can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Secondary routes include County Route 189 and County Route 192, offering alternative paths, but they are generally less direct and may involve navigating winding rural roads. These roads are often unpaved or poorly maintained, especially during winter, adding to the difficulty of travel. These conditions disproportionately affect individuals with lung cancer, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms that make driving a significant challenge.

Public transportation options in La Fargeville are extremely limited. Jefferson County operates a public transit system, known as the Jefferson County Transit (JCT). However, the JCT's service area primarily focuses on the city of Watertown and surrounding areas. While some routes may extend into the more rural areas, service frequency is limited, and routes may not directly serve La Fargeville. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility issues, and the JCT website should be consulted for specific route information and accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Watertown, but their presence in La Fargeville is uncertain. The sparse population and rural location may limit the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies. This reliance on ride-sharing can be costly and unreliable, especially for individuals with limited financial resources or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically involve scheduled pick-up and drop-off at medical appointments. While NEMT can be a valuable resource, it often requires advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for urgent needs. Additionally, the cost of NEMT can be a significant burden for some patients, potentially hindering their ability to access timely medical care.

The lack of readily available transportation options is a critical barrier to healthcare access for individuals in La Fargeville. This is especially true for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, who may require frequent appointments for diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up care. The challenges associated with transportation can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and compromised treatment outcomes.

Furthermore, the economic implications of transportation challenges are significant. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation can place a substantial financial strain on patients and their families. This financial burden can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with a lung cancer diagnosis, potentially impacting their overall well-being and ability to focus on their health.

For those considering moving to La Fargeville, the transportation landscape should be a paramount consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare facilities, considering their personal health status, financial resources, and tolerance for travel time. Researching the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options is essential.

Individuals with existing health conditions, particularly those with mobility limitations or respiratory issues, may find it challenging to live in La Fargeville due to the limited transportation options. The lack of readily available healthcare access can significantly impact their quality of life and ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for La Fargeville, NY (ZIP Code 13656) reveals a significant challenge in healthcare access related to transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. While medical transportation services offer a potential solution, their availability and cost can be limiting factors. Prospective residents and current residents alike must carefully consider these transportation challenges when assessing their ability to receive timely and effective healthcare. The journey to healthcare in La Fargeville is often a long and arduous one, demanding careful planning and resourcefulness.