13746, Chenango Forks, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13746, Chenango Forks, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.27 percent of residents in 13746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Binghamton Health Center with a distance of 10.59 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Chenango Forks (ZIP Code 13746)

Considering a move to Chenango Forks, New York (ZIP Code 13746), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for potential lung cancer treatment? This Lung Cancer Score provides a detailed overview of transportation options and potential challenges, helping you assess your ability to reach vital medical services. This analysis prioritizes access to comprehensive lung cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up appointments.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the understanding that timely access to healthcare is paramount in battling lung cancer. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact patient outcomes. Therefore, this report meticulously examines the available transportation infrastructure, from highways to public transit, within a reasonable radius of Chenango Forks. We will also consider the availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transportation options.

Chenango Forks, nestled in the Southern Tier region, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's rural nature influences the availability and efficiency of transportation. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering a move, especially those with pre-existing health concerns. This report aims to empower you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in Chenango Forks is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The efficiency of this mode is heavily reliant on the condition of the roadways and the distance to healthcare facilities. The primary artery connecting Chenango Forks to larger population centers and healthcare providers is New York State Route 12. This road provides a direct route to Binghamton, a city boasting significant medical infrastructure.

Driving to UHS Wilson Medical Center, a major healthcare provider in Johnson City (a suburb of Binghamton), typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive predominantly utilizes Route 12 and requires navigating through some suburban areas. Another option is Lourdes Hospital, also in Binghamton, which is accessible via Route 12 and then onto the Vestal Parkway East. The drive to Lourdes Hospital is generally comparable in time to UHS Wilson.

For specialized cancer care, including radiation therapy and advanced surgical procedures, patients may need to travel further afield. Driving to the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, a nationally recognized cancer center, is a significantly longer journey, approximately a 2-hour and 45-minute drive, primarily utilizing Interstate 81 North and then the New York State Thruway (I-90). This extended travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential fatigue, especially for patients undergoing treatment.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can cause delays and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, residents of Chenango Forks must be prepared for potential travel disruptions and plan accordingly, especially when attending medical appointments.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Chenango Forks are limited. Broome County Transit (BCT) offers bus service within the greater Binghamton area, but its routes and frequency are not extensive in Chenango Forks itself. The routes that do serve the area may have limited schedules, particularly on weekends and evenings.

Currently, the primary BCT route that serves Chenango Forks is Route 10. However, this route primarily focuses on connecting the area to downtown Binghamton and the surrounding suburbs. The frequency of Route 10 is typically hourly during peak times, with reduced service during off-peak hours and on weekends. This limited frequency can pose a challenge for patients needing to attend regular medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of BCT buses is a crucial consideration. All BCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, patients with mobility issues should confirm the availability of accessible stops and plan their trips accordingly. It's also essential to account for potential delays and the need to transfer between buses, which can add significant time to the overall journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Binghamton area, including Chenango Forks. However, their availability may be less reliable than in larger urban centers. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly increase the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients who are unable to drive or require assistance. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate patients with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and it's crucial to check insurance coverage for reimbursement.

Some of the medical transportation providers in the region include: Care Ride, MedTrans, and several local ambulance services that offer non-emergency transport. It's important to research and compare the services offered by different providers, considering factors like cost, availability, and the type of vehicle.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

For lung cancer patients, the ability to access healthcare quickly and reliably is critical. This includes access to:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** CT scans, PET scans, and other imaging modalities are essential for diagnosis and staging.
* **Oncology Services:** Access to oncologists, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy treatments.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Availability of radiation therapy facilities.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Access to thoracic surgeons for surgical interventions.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and palliative care.

The proximity of Chenango Forks to Binghamton provides access to many of these services. However, patients may need to travel further for specialized care, such as advanced surgical procedures or clinical trials.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Transportation Landscape**

Moving to Chenango Forks presents a trade-off between the tranquility of a rural setting and the challenges of healthcare access. While the drive to Binghamton for basic medical care is manageable, the limitations of public transportation and the potential for longer travel times to specialized cancer centers must be carefully considered.

For individuals diagnosed with or at high risk of lung cancer, thorough planning is essential. This includes researching the availability of medical transportation services, establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance, and understanding the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Chenango Forks is a nuanced one. The area provides reasonable access to essential healthcare services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful consideration and proactive planning to ensure timely and reliable access to the critical care required for lung cancer treatment. Before moving, it's recommended to discuss your specific healthcare needs with your physician and explore the available resources in the area.