13670, Oswegatchie, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13670, Oswegatchie, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.45 percent of residents in 13670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 4.05 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13670

The air in Oswegatchie, New York, within ZIP code 13670, holds the crisp, clean scent of the St. Lawrence River, a powerful draw for those seeking a quieter life. However, the allure of rural tranquility must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around 13670. It’s designed to inform potential residents considering moving to Oswegatchie, or existing residents navigating a difficult medical journey.

The "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal medical assessment, but a practical evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. It considers the critical need for timely access to specialized medical care, including oncology appointments, radiation therapy, and potential surgical interventions. The score weighs factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services, all crucial elements for patients battling lung cancer.

Oswegatchie's location presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The primary thoroughfare is New York State Route 37, a vital artery connecting the town to larger population centers. Driving times are significantly impacted by weather conditions, especially during the harsh winters common in the region. The distance to specialized cancer care facilities is a significant factor in our assessment.

The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Watertown, approximately 60 miles to the south, and Syracuse, roughly 120 miles away. Driving to Watertown via NY-37 and Interstate 81 could take between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Syracuse, a more significant journey, could involve a 2.5- to 3-hour drive, also relying on NY-37 and I-81, but with the added complexity of navigating the city's traffic. These drive times are based on ideal conditions; winter storms can easily double or triple these estimates.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system offers some routes, but they are not designed to serve the specific needs of cancer patients. Service frequency is often low, and routes may not directly connect Oswegatchie to the major healthcare facilities in Watertown or Syracuse. ADA accessibility, while present on some buses, might not be sufficient for patients with mobility limitations due to treatment side effects or the disease itself. The reliance on transfers and long travel times makes public transit a less-than-ideal solution for frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Oswegatchie area. Availability is often unpredictable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could make these services prohibitively expensive for frequent medical visits. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they cannot be considered a reliable primary mode of transportation for cancer patients.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more tailored solution. Companies like MedStar and others may operate in the area, but their availability and cost vary. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility, but they require advance booking and can be expensive. The cost of these services, especially for frequent appointments, can be a significant financial burden for patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 13670 is therefore impacted by the limited transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, the challenges of long drive times, and the scarcity of reliable public transit options contribute to a lower score. The potential for weather-related delays and the financial burden of ride-sharing or medical transportation further diminish the score.

For individuals considering moving to Oswegatchie with a pre-existing lung cancer diagnosis, or those at high risk, the transportation challenges are a critical consideration. The ability to maintain consistent access to specialized medical care is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" encourages careful evaluation of these factors, and a proactive approach to planning for transportation needs.

The best approach for residents of 13670 facing a lung cancer diagnosis involves a multi-faceted strategy. This includes:

* **Careful planning:** Scheduling appointments strategically to minimize travel time and exposure to adverse weather.
* **Building a support network:** Relying on family and friends for transportation assistance.
* **Exploring all available options:** Investigating the availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Advocating for improved transportation:** Supporting initiatives to expand public transit options and ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Considering proximity to care:** If possible, exploring the option of temporary or permanent relocation closer to cancer treatment facilities.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not intended to discourage individuals from moving to or living in Oswegatchie. Instead, it serves as a call to awareness, prompting careful consideration of healthcare access and transportation needs. For those who choose to live in this beautiful, rural community, proactive planning and a strong support system are essential to navigating the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. The peace and tranquility of Oswegatchie can be enjoyed, but only with a clear understanding of the transportation landscape and a commitment to ensuring access to vital healthcare services.