13679, Redwood, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13679, Redwood, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.84 percent of residents in 13679 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 6.17 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13679

The air hangs crisp and clean in Redwood, New York, a town nestled in the embrace of the St. Lawrence River. But beyond the scenic beauty, a crucial consideration for any resident, especially those seeking healthcare, is the accessibility of medical services. This write-up, tailored to ZIP Code 13679, explores the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis. We’ll delve into the transportation landscape, dissecting drive times, public transit options, and alternative mobility solutions, ultimately painting a picture of the Lung Cancer Score for this community.

Understanding the Lung Cancer Score involves assessing the ease with which a resident can reach diagnostic and treatment facilities. Early detection is paramount in the fight against lung cancer, and swift access to care can significantly impact outcomes. Therefore, factors like drive times to hospitals, availability of public transportation, and the presence of ride-share services become vital components of this score. This analysis focuses on the practical realities of getting to healthcare, acknowledging the potential challenges faced by individuals in need of urgent medical attention.

Redwood, while charming, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary route for accessing larger medical centers is undoubtedly by car. From the heart of Redwood, a drive to the nearest major hospital, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, typically spans approximately 30 minutes, covering roughly 25 miles. The journey predominantly involves navigating Route 37, a well-maintained highway offering a relatively smooth passage. However, during peak hours, particularly around school dismissal or the end of the workday, traffic congestion can add precious minutes to the commute, potentially impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

For those needing specialized care, the drive to larger hospitals in Watertown, such as Samaritan Medical Center, becomes a more significant undertaking. This trip, covering approximately 60 miles, usually requires about an hour and 15 minutes, primarily utilizing Interstate 81. This longer travel time, coupled with potential weather-related delays, such as heavy snowfall common during the winter months, significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score. The unpredictable nature of upstate New York weather necessitates careful planning and consideration when assessing healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Redwood are limited, which presents a considerable hurdle for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit (SLCPT) provides some bus routes, but their frequency and coverage are restricted, especially for destinations outside of Ogdensburg. Currently, there are no direct SLCPT routes serving Redwood specifically, requiring residents to travel to a central hub like Ogdensburg to connect to other routes. This reliance on multiple transfers and potentially lengthy wait times further diminishes the Lung Cancer Score, particularly for patients requiring frequent medical appointments or those with mobility limitations.

The SLCPT buses, while offering some accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are not always fully equipped to meet the needs of all passengers. The availability of ADA-compliant buses on specific routes can vary, and the overall network coverage remains sparse. The lack of comprehensive public transit infrastructure in Redwood underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions for those struggling with healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The demand for these services in a rural setting like Redwood is considerably lower than in urban centers, potentially leading to longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variable availability significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, creating uncertainty for individuals reliant on these services for medical transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer a crucial lifeline. Companies like MedTrans and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are essential for patients with mobility issues or those who cannot drive due to their medical condition. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier, potentially further lowering the Lung Cancer Score for those with limited financial resources.

For individuals considering a move to Redwood, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, becomes a critical factor in evaluating the suitability of the community for their healthcare needs. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score compared to urban areas with more robust transportation infrastructure.

The proximity of Redwood to Ogdensburg provides some level of healthcare access, but the longer travel times to specialized medical facilities in Watertown and beyond necessitate careful planning. The potential for weather-related delays and the limited availability of alternative transportation options amplify the challenges.

The healthcare access challenge in Redwood underscores the importance of proactive measures. Individuals with a potential lung cancer diagnosis should establish a clear transportation plan, including backup options, before their healthcare journey begins. This may involve coordinating with family members, friends, or utilizing medical transport services.

For those moving to Redwood, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Investigating the availability of medical transport services, understanding the limitations of public transit, and factoring in potential travel times to specialized care facilities are essential steps in determining the community's suitability.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 13679 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While Redwood offers a tranquil environment, the transportation challenges necessitate careful consideration and proactive planning to ensure timely and effective healthcare delivery. The score is not static; it can be improved through increased public transit investment, expanded ride-sharing services, and greater awareness of medical transportation options. Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where healthcare access is equitable and efficient, allowing residents to focus on their health and well-being.