13841, Smithville Flats, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13841, Smithville Flats, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.52 percent of residents in 13841 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chenango Memorial Hospital with a distance of 18.26 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13841**

The crisp air of Smithville Flats, New York (ZIP code 13841), whispers promises of rural tranquility. But beneath the idyllic veneer lies a critical consideration for residents, especially those concerned about their health: healthcare access. This analysis delves into the lung cancer-specific healthcare landscape, evaluating the transportation infrastructure and the associated challenges for individuals needing timely and specialized medical care. The ability to navigate these complexities directly impacts a resident's Lung Cancer Score, a measure of the ease and efficiency with which they can access essential diagnostic and treatment services.

The primary concern is the distance to specialized oncology services. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. Driving is the most common mode of transportation, with the journey's duration heavily influenced by traffic and weather conditions. From Smithville Flats, a drive to Binghamton, home to several hospitals with oncology departments, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the route and time of day. The most direct route involves taking County Road 24, which connects to New York State Route 12, and then to Interstate 81. This route, while relatively straightforward, is susceptible to delays, especially during peak hours and inclement weather.

Alternatively, residents can opt for a more circuitous route, using County Road 24 to New York State Route 41 and then to New York State Route 17. This route is longer, potentially adding 15 to 20 minutes to the commute, but it might offer a smoother ride, especially during winter. The condition of these roads, particularly County Road 24, can vary, affecting travel times. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient transportation, especially for patients who might be experiencing physical limitations.

Public transportation options are limited in Smithville Flats. The Broome County Transit system, while serving the Binghamton area, does not have direct routes to Smithville Flats. Therefore, relying on public transit for healthcare access is virtually impossible. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as it eliminates an affordable and accessible option for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The absence of ADA-compliant features on any available public transit further exacerbates the challenge for individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Binghamton area, but their presence in Smithville Flats is less certain. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments. This inconsistency in availability and the potential financial burden further reduce the Lung Cancer Score for residents of Smithville Flats.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services come at a cost and require advance booking. The availability of these services in Smithville Flats and their ability to accommodate the specific needs of lung cancer patients, such as oxygen requirements or stretcher transport, must be carefully considered.

The Lung Cancer Score is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. While Smithville Flats may have a primary care physician, access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, requires travel. This necessitates careful coordination between the primary care physician and the specialist, which can add time and complexity to the patient's journey. The ability to receive timely referrals and schedule appointments efficiently is crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Smithville Flats, understanding the transportation challenges is paramount. The Lung Cancer Score is significantly affected by the limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs and uncertainties associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The distance to specialized care, the condition of the roads, and the availability of support services all contribute to the overall score.

The implications of a lower Lung Cancer Score are significant. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can negatively impact patient outcomes. Frequent travel for appointments can be physically and emotionally draining. The financial burden of transportation can add to the stress of battling cancer. Therefore, prospective residents and current inhabitants must carefully weigh these factors when assessing the suitability of Smithville Flats as a place to live, particularly if they have a history of lung cancer or are at high risk.

The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental right. In Smithville Flats, the challenges related to transportation create a significant barrier to this right, particularly for those with lung cancer. Improving the Lung Cancer Score requires a multifaceted approach, including exploring partnerships with medical transportation services, advocating for expanded public transportation options, and supporting telehealth initiatives to reduce the need for travel.

The Lung Cancer Score for Smithville Flats is not static. It can change with improvements in transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare services, and the implementation of patient support programs. Residents must remain informed and proactive in advocating for their healthcare needs. The journey to improved healthcare access is a shared responsibility, and the well-being of the community depends on it. The promise of rural tranquility must be balanced with the reality of healthcare access, ensuring that Smithville Flats remains a place where residents can thrive, even in the face of serious illness.