13661, Mannsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13661, Mannsville, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.87 percent of residents in 13661 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 20.46 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mannsville (ZIP Code 13661)

The decision to relocate to Mannsville, New York (ZIP Code 13661), presents a unique set of considerations, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the ease of reaching critical medical services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis or requiring preventative care. The score is designed to inform prospective residents about the realities of healthcare access in this rural community.

Mannsville, nestled in Jefferson County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative isolation necessitates careful evaluation of transportation infrastructure. This is especially crucial for those requiring regular medical appointments, treatments, or emergency care. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a healthcare facility can significantly impact patient outcomes, particularly in the context of a serious illness like lung cancer.

The primary consideration is the drive time to the nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The closest comprehensive facility is Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately 20 miles away. Driving via **New York State Route 3** is the most direct route, typically taking around 30 to 40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during inclement weather, common in upstate New York, drive times can easily double, presenting a significant challenge for those with compromised health.

Alternative routes exist, but they add considerable time and distance. Utilizing **County Route 14** and then connecting to **New York State Route 3** might offer a slightly different perspective on the landscape, but doesn't significantly improve travel time. The roads are generally well-maintained, but snow and ice can render them treacherous during winter months. These factors contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Public transportation options are limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides some service within the county, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting larger towns and cities. There is no direct public transit route from Mannsville to Samaritan Medical Center. Relying on public transportation for healthcare access in this scenario would be exceptionally challenging and time-consuming, likely involving multiple transfers and extended travel times, making it impractical for regular medical appointments or emergencies.

ADA accessibility on JCT buses is available, but the limited service frequency and lack of direct routes to healthcare facilities severely restrict its usefulness for individuals with mobility limitations. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, highlighting the dependence on private vehicles or alternative transportation services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Mannsville is less consistent. Securing a ride at short notice, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. This unreliability is a major concern for those requiring urgent medical attention or scheduled appointments. The potential for delays or unavailability further diminishes the Lung Cancer Score.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Ambulance services are available for emergencies, and response times are typically within acceptable limits, although the rural nature of the area may still result in longer wait times compared to urban settings.

NEMT services, catering to individuals who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like First Transit and LogistiCare operate in the area, providing transportation for Medicaid and other eligible patients. However, availability and scheduling can be constraints, and advance booking is often required. This is crucial for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who require frequent appointments.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of specialized medical services. While Samaritan Medical Center offers comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, access to specialized pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists may require travel to larger medical centers outside of Jefferson County. This could necessitate longer drive times or reliance on more complex transportation arrangements.

The financial implications of transportation are also a factor. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees at healthcare facilities can add up, particularly for frequent appointments. For individuals with limited incomes or those facing financial hardship due to their illness, these costs can become a significant burden.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as cancer support groups, counseling, and palliative care, within the local community is crucial. These services can provide invaluable emotional and practical support to patients and their families. The availability of these services in Mannsville and surrounding areas can mitigate some of the challenges associated with healthcare access, but their absence or limited availability will negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Mannsville, ZIP Code 13661, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While Samaritan Medical Center is relatively close, the reliance on private vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the possible need for travel to specialized centers all contribute to a less-than-ideal scenario.

Individuals considering moving to Mannsville should carefully weigh these factors. Those with pre-existing health conditions, particularly those related to lung health, should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities and reliable transportation options. Careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation strategies are essential to ensure timely access to medical care.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a vital tool for informed decision-making. It encourages prospective residents to consider the realities of transportation and healthcare access, empowering them to make choices that best suit their individual needs and circumstances. The score is not a definitive judgment, but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Mannsville, guiding individuals toward a healthier and more informed future.