13675, Plessis, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13675, Plessis, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.86 percent of residents in 13675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 5.61 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Plessis, NY (ZIP Code 13675)**

The crisp air of Plessis, New York, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, offers a certain charm. But for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the reality of accessing specialized healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This assessment analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 13675, evaluating its impact on healthcare access, particularly for those requiring lung cancer treatment. This is a vital factor for anyone moving to Plessis.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, reflects the relative ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, all of which directly influence a patient’s ability to receive timely and effective care. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities for individuals residing in Plessis, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

Plessis is a small community, and the nearest hospitals equipped to handle lung cancer diagnoses and treatment are located in Watertown, New York. The primary route to Watertown involves navigating a network of roadways. From Plessis, the most direct path is typically via New York State Route 12. This route offers a relatively straightforward drive, but traffic conditions can vary, especially during peak hours. The drive is approximately 15 miles and takes about 20-25 minutes under normal conditions.

Another option involves utilizing County Route 193, connecting to Route 12. This can be a slightly longer route, depending on the specific origin point within Plessis. For those seeking specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, the drive to Syracuse, New York, becomes a necessity. This necessitates a journey of approximately 80 miles, primarily via Interstate 81. This drive can take upwards of an hour and a half, potentially longer depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. For individuals unable to drive, or those whose ability to drive is compromised by their illness or treatment, alternative transportation becomes paramount. The absence of readily available public transportation compounds the challenge.

**Public Transit Challenges**

Public transportation options in and around Plessis are extremely limited. Jefferson County does not have a comprehensive public bus system that services the area with frequent routes. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The lack of public transit is a major impediment to healthcare access.

While there might be occasional, limited demand-response services, these are typically geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical appointments. The absence of regular, scheduled public transit poses a significant barrier for individuals needing frequent visits for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or follow-up appointments. The lack of public transit options is a significant challenge for anyone considering moving to Plessis.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area. However, their availability in Plessis itself can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare access is not a sustainable solution for many.

Medical transport services are available, but they often come with higher costs and require pre-arrangement. These services are crucial for patients who are unable to drive themselves and lack other transportation options. However, the limited availability and potential expense of medical transport can create significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access and the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for Plessis, NY (ZIP code 13675) is significantly impacted by the transportation limitations. The dependence on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a lower score. The score reflects the increased difficulty patients face in accessing timely and consistent medical care.

This situation underscores the importance of careful consideration for those considering moving to Plessis, especially if they have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk. The availability of reliable transportation is critical for managing this disease effectively. Healthcare access is severely impacted by the lack of transportation options.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals living with or at risk for lung cancer in Plessis, proactive planning is essential. This includes:

* **Assessing Personal Transportation:** Evaluate the reliability of your personal vehicle and your ability to drive.
* **Exploring Ride-Sharing Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Investigating Medical Transport:** Identify and contact medical transport providers to understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Building a Support Network:** Develop a support system of family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Considering Proximity to Services:** When possible, choose healthcare providers and treatment centers that are located closer to Plessis.

The transportation landscape in Plessis, NY, presents significant challenges for individuals managing lung cancer. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options must be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access. This assessment serves as a critical tool for those seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access in Plessis, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the importance of transportation in the fight against this disease.