13676, Potsdam, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13676, Potsdam, New York is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.13 percent of residents in 13676 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 1.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Potsdam, NY (ZIP Code 13676)

The air in Potsdam, New York, crisp with the promise of four distinct seasons, holds a beauty that draws people to its embrace. Nestled in the St. Lawrence River Valley, this community offers a blend of academic life, outdoor recreation, and a slower pace. However, for those considering a move, especially with pre-existing health concerns, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals in ZIP code 13676, considering the critical need for timely and reliable healthcare, particularly in the context of lung cancer treatment.

Our "Lung Cancer Score" considers the ease and efficiency of getting to essential healthcare facilities, primarily those equipped to diagnose and treat lung cancer. This includes hospitals with oncology departments, radiation therapy centers, and pulmonology specialists. The score will evaluate drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in the patient journey.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

For residents of Potsdam, the primary routes to healthcare are predominantly by car. The most significant facility is Canton-Potsdam Hospital, located in Potsdam itself, offering a relatively close proximity. Accessing this hospital from within ZIP code 13676 is generally straightforward. Most residents will utilize local roads like Maple Street and Main Street, which feed into State Route 56. Depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code, drive times to Canton-Potsdam Hospital typically range from five to fifteen minutes.

Beyond Potsdam, the next level of care often requires travel to larger hospitals in the region. The nearest major hospitals with comprehensive cancer treatment facilities are in Watertown, New York, and Syracuse, New York.

Reaching Watertown, approximately 65 miles away, necessitates a journey primarily on State Route 56 south, which then connects to US Route 11. The drive time to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown can vary significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's route, but typically takes between one hour and fifteen minutes to one hour and thirty minutes. This is a considerable time commitment, especially for frequent appointments or in emergency situations.

Syracuse, approximately 140 miles away, presents a more extensive travel commitment. The most direct route involves taking State Route 56 south to US Route 11 south, then connecting to Interstate 81 south. This journey can take between two hours and thirty minutes to three hours, again contingent on traffic and weather. This extended travel time underscores the importance of considering the potential impact on treatment schedules and overall well-being.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Potsdam and the surrounding areas are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system (SLCPT) provides bus services, but its routes and frequency are not designed to specifically cater to the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. While SLCPT does operate within Potsdam, including routes that serve Canton-Potsdam Hospital, the service is less frequent on weekends and in the evenings.

For individuals with mobility limitations, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor. SLCPT offers ADA-compliant vehicles, but the limited schedule and route coverage can still pose challenges. Planning transportation in advance and coordinating with the transit provider is essential. The reliance on public transit for accessing specialized cancer care in Watertown or Syracuse is not a practical option due to the considerable travel distances and the lack of direct routes. This limitation emphasizes the importance of alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Potsdam, but their availability and reliability can fluctuate. While these services offer a convenient option for local trips, their use for longer distances to Watertown or Syracuse might prove to be expensive. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments, can be uncertain.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, including those related to cancer treatment. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and companies that specialize in NEMT. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as medical necessity or insurance coverage.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Potsdam, NY (ZIP code 13676) reflects a mixed picture. While access to Canton-Potsdam Hospital is relatively easy, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to Watertown or Syracuse. The primary mode of transportation is by car, with significant drive times to larger facilities. Public transit offers limited options, and ride-sharing services may not be reliable for long-distance travel. Medical transport services provide a valuable, but often expensive, alternative.

For individuals considering a move to Potsdam, particularly those with a history of or a current diagnosis of lung cancer, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle, or the ability to rely on family or friends for transportation, is a significant advantage. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transport services is also essential.

The score would be significantly improved by increased public transportation frequency, especially routes to Watertown and Syracuse, and the expansion of ride-sharing availability. Increased investment in medical transport services and improved coordination between healthcare providers and transportation options would also be beneficial.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" underscores the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options when assessing healthcare access in Potsdam, NY. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the practicalities of accessing specialized cancer care should be a primary consideration. This analysis aims to provide potential residents with the necessary information to make informed decisions, ensuring they can prioritize their health and well-being within the context of their new community.