13776, Gilbertsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13776, Gilbertsville, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.64 percent of residents in 13776 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chenango Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 13776

The air in Gilbertsville, New York (ZIP Code 13776) whispers of rolling hills and a slower pace of life. But beneath the idyllic veneer lies a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move or already residing here: access to healthcare, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer. This write-up assesses the "Lung Cancer Score" for residents of 13776, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing timely and quality care.

The Lung Cancer Score isn't a formal medical metric. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment of the ease with which someone in 13776 can reach essential healthcare services related to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and support services. The score considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. A higher score indicates better access.

The primary challenge in 13776 is its rural location. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing frequent appointments.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and Distance**

For many, the car is the primary mode of transportation. The journey to healthcare facilities from Gilbertsville involves navigating the local road network. Driving to Bassett Healthcare Network in Cooperstown, a potential hub for lung cancer care, is approximately a 40-minute drive, primarily via NY-28 South. The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose a significant challenge, potentially extending travel times and impacting healthcare access.

Another option is to travel to UHS Binghamton General Hospital, a hospital with a comprehensive cancer center, which is about an hour and 15-minute drive via I-88 East. This route involves a stretch of interstate, which can be faster but also subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.

The drive to both locations can be physically and emotionally taxing for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The stress of driving, combined with potential side effects of treatment, can significantly impact the patient's well-being and quality of life.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in 13776 are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly lowers the Lung Cancer Score. There is no direct bus service to Cooperstown or Binghamton from Gilbertsville. This severely restricts access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The lack of public transit also impacts the ability to attend appointments, obtain medications, and access support services. This isolation can exacerbate the emotional and physical challenges of battling lung cancer.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their availability in 13776 itself can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments is not a reliable option.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. However, they often come at a higher cost, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several companies provide medical transportation in the region, including ambulance services and NEMT providers. These services cater to various needs, from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The Lung Cancer Score for 13776 is significantly impacted by the challenges in transportation. The rural location, limited public transit, and reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to accessing timely and convenient healthcare.

For individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer, the ability to quickly reach medical professionals is paramount. Delays in diagnosis, treatment, or follow-up care can have serious consequences.

**Moving to Gilbertsville: A Balanced Perspective**

For those considering moving to Gilbertsville, the Lung Cancer Score is a crucial factor to weigh. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the healthcare access challenges must be carefully considered, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those seeking to relocate with the intention of being closer to family.

Potential residents should research healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas, assess their transportation options, and determine whether the available resources meet their specific needs. It is essential to have a plan for accessing healthcare before making a move.

**Improving the Score: Potential Solutions**

Several initiatives could improve the Lung Cancer Score for 13776. Expanding public transportation options, such as establishing a bus route connecting Gilbertsville to Cooperstown and Binghamton, would significantly enhance healthcare access.

Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could provide subsidized transportation options for patients. Telemedicine and telehealth services could also play a vital role, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion: A Call for Action**

The Lung Cancer Score in 13776 highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations in transportation create significant challenges for individuals battling lung cancer. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, ride-sharing initiatives, and telehealth services is crucial to ensure that all residents have access to the care they need.