13806, Meridale, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13806, Meridale, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.84 percent of residents in 13806 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is O'Connor Hospital with a distance of 7.39 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13806

The air hangs crisp and clean in the verdant embrace of ZIP Code 13806, encompassing the charming hamlet of Meridale, New York. Yet, beneath the idyllic surface, a critical reality persists: access to healthcare, particularly for complex conditions like lung cancer, is a significant concern. This analysis, designed to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for patients facing this diagnosis, assesses the “Lung Cancer Score” within the context of available transportation options, a crucial determinant of healthcare access.

Our focus centers on the journey from Meridale to the nearest comprehensive lung cancer treatment centers. This involves a deep dive into transportation infrastructure, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. The overarching goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the barriers and facilitators that patients in 13806 encounter while seeking timely and appropriate care.

The primary challenge lies in the rural nature of the area. Meridale is nestled within Delaware County, a region characterized by vast distances and limited public transportation. This geographical isolation directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as patients often face extended travel times and logistical hurdles.

**Driving Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For most residents of Meridale, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The journey to the nearest major healthcare facilities, equipped to handle lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, necessitates navigating a network of highways and roads. The drive time becomes a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The closest hospitals with oncology departments are located in Oneonta, New York, approximately 25 miles away. The primary route involves traversing **New York State Route 28**, a winding two-lane highway that can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. A typical drive to Oneonta, assuming moderate traffic conditions, takes around 45 minutes.

For more specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or complex surgical procedures, patients might need to travel to larger hospitals in Binghamton or Cooperstown. Binghamton, about 50 miles away, is accessible via **New York State Route 28** and **Interstate 88**. The drive time to Binghamton can range from one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic. Cooperstown, a similar distance, is accessible via **New York State Route 28** and **New York State Route 80**.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can pose significant difficulties for patients. The fatigue associated with cancer treatment, combined with the potential for side effects, can make driving a considerable burden. Furthermore, the cost of fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance adds to the financial strain often associated with a cancer diagnosis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 13806 are severely limited. Delaware County Public Transportation offers some bus routes, but they are infrequent and primarily serve local communities. These routes are not designed to facilitate regular trips to hospitals in Oneonta, Binghamton, or Cooperstown.

The availability of public transit directly affects the Lung Cancer Score. The lack of reliable, accessible, and affordable public transportation exacerbates the challenges faced by patients who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle.

ADA accessibility on these limited public transit options is a further consideration. While the county strives to provide accessible services, the reality of navigating rural routes with potential delays and limited frequency can be a significant barrier for patients with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often sporadic and their availability can be unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transportation providers, offer a more reliable option for patients. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive and may require prior scheduling, potentially adding delays to treatment.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services play a crucial role in the Lung Cancer Score. They provide a lifeline for patients who cannot drive, but their limitations must be carefully considered.

**The Impact on the Lung Cancer Score**

The Lung Cancer Score for 13806 reflects the challenges presented by the limited transportation options. The score is negatively impacted by the long drive times, the scarcity of public transit, and the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

This assessment highlights the need for increased efforts to improve healthcare access for residents of Meridale and surrounding areas. This includes exploring options for expanding public transportation, subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments, and increasing the availability of affordable medical transport.

**Considering a Move to Meridale?**

For individuals considering a move to Meridale, the Lung Cancer Score should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. While the area offers a tranquil and desirable lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access must be carefully weighed.

Prospective residents should thoroughly investigate the availability of healthcare services, the transportation options, and the potential financial burden of accessing medical care. They should also consider the proximity of family and friends who can provide support and assistance with transportation.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Lung Cancer Score for 13806 underscores the critical need for improved transportation infrastructure and healthcare access in rural communities. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving local government, healthcare providers, transportation companies, and community organizations. By working together, we can ensure that residents of Meridale and other rural areas have access to the timely and appropriate care they deserve. This commitment to improving healthcare access is essential for improving the Lung Cancer Score and the overall well-being of the community. The journey to healthcare should not be an insurmountable barrier, but a navigable path, regardless of the diagnosis.