13784, Harford, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13784, Harford, New York is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.30 percent of residents in 13784 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Guthrie Cortland Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.81 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13784

Considering a move to Harford, New York, ZIP Code 13784? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," assessing the accessibility of healthcare resources crucial for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. It focuses on transportation options, recognizing that ease of access to medical facilities significantly impacts patient outcomes. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The primary concern for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis is timely access to specialized medical care. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and surgical teams. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for improved survival rates. Therefore, the Lung Cancer Score weighs heavily on the efficiency and reliability of transportation to these essential healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Navigating the roads is often the most direct route to healthcare in this rural setting. The primary artery is New York State Route 81, which runs north and south. Drive times to major healthcare centers, like Guthrie Cortland Medical Center (approximately 30 miles south) and UHS Wilson Medical Center in Johnson City (around 40 miles southeast), are crucial. These journeys, depending on traffic and weather, could take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour. The drive along Route 81 can be subject to delays during peak hours and inclement weather.

Secondary roads, such as County Route 26 and County Route 20, offer alternative routes. However, these roads are often less maintained and may be winding, adding to travel time and potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Local roads, while convenient for shorter trips, are unlikely to provide access to specialized lung cancer care. Therefore, the reliance on Route 81 and the potential for extended travel times significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in ZIP Code 13784 is extremely limited. The Broome County Transit (BCT) system, serving the Binghamton area, does not directly serve Harford. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of reliable public transit severely restricts healthcare access. Individuals reliant on public transportation would face considerable challenges in reaching medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, radiation therapy, or follow-up care. This lack of options drastically lowers the Lung Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed. Availability is often dependent on driver density and demand. The cost of ride-sharing for long-distance trips to medical facilities can be substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for patients.

Medical transportation services, like Care Ride or similar companies, are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with assistance for those with mobility limitations. However, the availability of these services in rural areas can be limited, and they often require advance booking. The cost of medical transport can be significant, and availability may be restricted, especially for urgent appointments.

**Assessing the Lung Cancer Score:**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 13784 is negatively impacted by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access, coupled with potentially long drive times, introduces significant challenges. The absence of reliable public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these difficulties.

The cost and availability of medical transport, while offering a solution, can be a barrier for some. These factors collectively contribute to a lower Lung Cancer Score, indicating potential difficulties in accessing timely and convenient healthcare for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

**ADA Accessibility:**

While specific details about ADA accessibility for each transportation option are difficult to ascertain without a comprehensive survey, the limited public transportation options are concerning. Even if a bus route were available, the lack of frequency and potential for long travel times would present challenges for those with mobility limitations. Ride-sharing services are generally ADA compliant, but availability is not guaranteed. Medical transport services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but cost and availability remain a concern.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Moving to Harford:**

For individuals considering a move to Harford, New York, and particularly those with a history of lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. The Lung Cancer Score highlights the potential challenges in reaching specialized medical care.

Before relocating, prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers in the area and assess their transportation options. This includes determining the feasibility of driving, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transport.

Furthermore, individuals should investigate the presence of support groups and resources for lung cancer patients in the region. These resources can provide valuable emotional support and guidance throughout the treatment process.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 13784 reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options can create significant hurdles for individuals requiring specialized lung cancer care. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors and proactively plan for their healthcare needs before making a move. Prioritizing healthcare access, especially in the context of lung cancer, is crucial for ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This assessment underscores the importance of comprehensive planning when considering a move, ensuring that healthcare access is readily available and meets the individual's specific needs.