13696, West Stockholm, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13696, West Stockholm, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13696 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 4.92 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 13696

The crisp air of West Stockholm, New York, in ZIP code 13696, offers a serene backdrop for life, but the reality of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, demands a pragmatic assessment. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing crucial medical services. This score considers the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to West Stockholm.

The primary concern for individuals battling lung cancer is timely access to specialized care. This includes diagnostic imaging, oncology consultations, radiation therapy, and potentially, surgical interventions. Delays in any of these areas can significantly impact treatment outcomes and quality of life. Therefore, the transportation infrastructure becomes a critical determinant of a patient's journey.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving West Stockholm are Route 11 and County Route 24. Route 11, a major north-south artery, provides access to larger towns and cities where specialized medical facilities are located. Driving to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, the closest major hospital with oncology services, involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 13696. This is generally considered a reasonable drive time, offering a good starting point for our score.

However, the drive to larger facilities in Syracuse, offering more specialized care, can take upwards of 2 hours via I-81. This extended travel time presents a significant challenge, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing debilitating side effects. The condition of these roads, especially during the harsh winters common to upstate New York, can further complicate travel. Snow and ice can lead to delays, increasing the risk of missed appointments and treatment interruptions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in the region is limited. St. Lawrence County Public Transit offers bus routes, but their coverage in West Stockholm is sparse. Information regarding specific routes serving 13696 is difficult to find, and the frequency of service is typically low. This makes relying on public transit for regular medical appointments impractical for most residents.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is a crucial factor. Patients undergoing cancer treatment may have mobility limitations, making accessible transportation essential. The reliability and accessibility of public transit in this area significantly detract from the overall Lung Cancer Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in the West Stockholm area. Availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant obstacle for patients needing transportation to appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. While ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, NEMT services, which provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, are crucial for regular treatment. The availability and cost of these services in 13696 need to be investigated. The reputation of providers, their response times, and the types of vehicles available (wheelchair accessible, etc.) all contribute to the score.

**The Lung Cancer Score and Considerations:**

Considering the factors above, the Lung Cancer Score for 13696 is moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The relatively short drive to Canton-Potsdam Hospital is a positive factor. However, the limited public transit, the unreliable ride-sharing options, and the potential challenges of long drives to Syracuse significantly impact the score.

For someone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the score highlights the importance of personal vehicle ownership. Having access to a reliable car is crucial for attending appointments and accessing specialized care. Family support, including the availability of caregivers to provide transportation, is also invaluable.

Individuals considering moving to West Stockholm, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The challenges of accessing healthcare should be weighed against the benefits of the area, like its natural beauty and peaceful environment. Thorough research into local medical transport providers and the potential costs associated with their services is essential.

The score also underscores the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could involve advocating for expanded public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to ensure availability, or supporting the development of more NEMT options. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 13696, regardless of their health status, have equitable access to the care they need.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for 13696 reveals a complex picture. While proximity to Canton-Potsdam Hospital provides a degree of accessibility, the limitations in transportation options, particularly for those requiring specialized care, present significant challenges. A careful evaluation of these factors is essential for residents and those considering moving to West Stockholm, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and community involvement to improve healthcare access for all. The challenges of transportation are a major factor in healthcare access.