13807, Milford, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13807, Milford, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.42 percent of residents in 13807 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bassett Healthcare with a distance of 6.54 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Milford, NY (ZIP Code 13807)

Considering a move to Milford, New York (ZIP code 13807)? This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric assessing the ease of accessing lung cancer-related healthcare within this rural community. It considers transportation options, drive times, and the availability of specialized medical services. The score, while not a formal medical assessment, aims to illuminate the practical challenges and opportunities residents face when navigating healthcare access, particularly for a serious illness like lung cancer.

Milford, nestled in Otsego County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's rural nature necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. A high Lung Cancer Score suggests readily available and accessible healthcare, while a low score indicates potential barriers. This write-up explores the realities of "transportation" in Milford and its impact on healthcare access.

**The Score's Components:**

The Lung Cancer Score is based on several factors. First, we assess the drive times to relevant medical facilities, including hospitals, oncologists, radiation therapy centers, and diagnostic imaging services. Second, we examine public transportation options, their frequency, and accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. Third, we evaluate the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers. Finally, we consider the presence of support services, such as cancer support groups and patient navigation programs. Each component contributes to the overall score, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing crucial care.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For residents of Milford, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the area's roadways.

The closest hospital, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, is a significant healthcare hub. The drive typically involves taking New York State Route 28, a winding two-lane highway that can be prone to traffic, especially during peak hours or tourist season. The drive to Bassett Medical Center is approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Milford. This travel time is considered relatively manageable, providing a good starting point for the Lung Cancer Score.

Traveling further afield to access specialized cancer care might require a longer drive. Albany Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer treatment facility, is approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive via Interstate 88 East. This journey, while longer, offers a more direct route, bypassing the slower local roads. The I-88 is generally well-maintained but can experience delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

Other options include driving to Syracuse, New York. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-88 East and I-81 North. This drive provides access to other cancer treatment centers.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Milford are limited, which significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The Otsego County Public Transportation system (OCPT) provides some bus services. However, routes are infrequent, and service areas may not extend to all parts of the ZIP code.

For individuals with lung cancer, the limitations of public transportation are considerable. Frequent doctor's appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and radiation therapy treatments necessitate reliable and timely transportation. The OCPT’s schedule may not align with these needs. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations is a crucial factor. While the OCPT offers some ADA-accessible vehicles, availability may be limited, and advance booking is often required.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the area, but availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations within Milford. The reliability of ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments can be uncertain, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and ensuring patients arrive at their appointments safely and on time. However, these services can be costly, and insurance coverage may vary. Researching available medical transportation providers, their costs, and insurance coverage is crucial for anyone considering moving to Milford or already residing there.

**Healthcare Access: Support Systems and Resources**

Beyond transportation, the availability of support services is a vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. Bassett Medical Center offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Access to these services locally is a significant advantage.

The presence of cancer support groups, patient navigation programs, and palliative care services can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with lung cancer. These resources provide emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance through the complexities of cancer treatment. The availability of these services within or near Milford enhances the overall healthcare access profile.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Milford (13807): A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, Milford's Lung Cancer Score presents a mixed picture. The proximity to Bassett Medical Center, with its oncology services, is a significant positive. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services pose significant barriers. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

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

For individuals considering moving to Milford, or those already residing there, the Lung Cancer Score highlights several crucial considerations. Assessing personal transportation needs, including vehicle reliability and the ability to drive, is paramount. Researching medical transportation options and understanding insurance coverage is also essential.

Exploring the availability of cancer support services, patient navigation programs, and palliative care within the community is vital. Developing a plan for accessing healthcare, including identifying potential transportation alternatives and understanding appointment scheduling procedures, is crucial.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Lung Cancer Score serves as a starting point for understanding healthcare access in Milford. While the area offers some advantages, the limitations of transportation necessitate proactive planning. Residents and prospective residents should actively investigate available resources, explore transportation options, and prioritize healthcare access when making decisions. The journey through lung cancer treatment is challenging. A well-informed approach to transportation and healthcare access can significantly improve the quality of life and treatment outcomes for individuals living in Milford, New York.