13864, Willseyville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13864, Willseyville, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.16 percent of residents in 13864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Cayuga Medical Center At Ithaca with a distance of 13.92 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Willseyville (ZIP Code 13864)

The crisp air of Willseyville, New York, nestled within ZIP code 13864, offers a tranquil escape. But for residents, particularly those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can be challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," considers the transportation landscape, a critical element in navigating treatment, appointments, and follow-up care. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for individuals considering moving to Willseyville or already residing within its borders.

The foundation of the score rests on the premise that timely and reliable transportation is paramount. Delays, difficulties, or the lack thereof, can significantly impact a patient's well-being and the effectiveness of their treatment. This write-up will explore the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities within this rural community.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highways**

The primary mode of transportation in Willseyville is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The area's geographic isolation necessitates a car for most errands, including accessing healthcare. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Ithaca, approximately 30 miles away.

The most direct route involves navigating State Route 79 East. This winding, two-lane road offers scenic views but can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour under ideal circumstances.

Alternatively, one could take State Route 34 North, connecting to State Route 13 South towards Ithaca. This route is slightly longer, covering approximately 35 miles, and drive times range from one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, depending on traffic.

These drive times highlight a significant challenge: the time commitment required for even routine appointments. For individuals undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, which often involve daily or frequent visits, the cumulative travel time can be exhausting and impact their quality of life.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Willseyville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) system, which serves Ithaca and Tompkins County, offers some potential, but its reach into Willseyville is minimal.

There are no direct TCAT routes that service Willseyville. The closest access point would be a significant drive to a TCAT bus stop, likely in the town of Dryden, which itself may not have frequent service.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the few available routes must be carefully considered. While TCAT strives to provide accessible buses, including ramps and designated seating, the long travel distances and infrequent service make public transit a challenging option for many patients, especially those with mobility limitations or requiring assistance.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ithaca area. However, their presence in Willseyville is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, may prove difficult.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically involve a scheduled pick-up and drop-off, often with wheelchair accessibility.

The cost of medical transport can be a significant factor, as insurance coverage varies. Patients should investigate their insurance policies and explore financial assistance programs to help offset these expenses.

**Healthcare Access: A Complex Equation**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Willseyville is not a simple number. It's a multifaceted assessment reflecting the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the unique needs of lung cancer patients. The score is negatively impacted by the long drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services.

This situation emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. Patients should establish a reliable transportation plan early in their treatment journey. This plan should consider the frequency of appointments, the patient's physical capabilities, and the availability of support from family, friends, or community resources.

**Moving to Willseyville: A Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Willseyville, this transportation analysis should be a key factor in their decision-making process. The rural setting, while offering peace and quiet, presents significant challenges in accessing healthcare. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of resources before making a move.

Furthermore, the score can be improved by community efforts. Local organizations and healthcare providers could collaborate to establish transportation programs, such as volunteer driver networks or partnerships with medical transport services. Increasing awareness of available resources and advocating for improved public transit options would also be beneficial.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Willseyville highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the realities of accessing medical care, particularly for lung cancer patients, are complex. By understanding the transportation landscape, patients can proactively plan for their needs, seek support from available resources, and advocate for improvements in healthcare access within their community. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges and ensure that individuals receive the timely and effective care they deserve. The journey with lung cancer is challenging enough; reliable transportation should never be an added burden.