13902, Binghamton, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13902, Binghamton, New York is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

95.12 percent of residents in 13902 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.72 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Transportation and Healthcare Analysis for ZIP Code 13902

The journey to effective lung cancer care is often fraught with challenges, and in ZIP Code 13902, the availability and accessibility of transportation become critical factors. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score" if you will, assesses the ease with which residents can access essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all vital components of **healthcare access** for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It's a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Binghamton**, New York, or already residing within this area.

ZIP Code 13902, encompassing much of the city of Binghamton, presents a mixed bag of transportation options. The primary artery is Interstate 86 (I-86), providing relatively direct access to healthcare facilities. The highway allows for swift travel, assuming traffic conditions cooperate. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant hurdle for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

The primary healthcare hub in the region is UHS Wilson Medical Center, located at 33-57 Harrison Street, Binghamton, NY 13903. From various points within 13902, a drive to UHS Wilson Medical Center via I-86 is typically achievable within 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific starting location. Other routes, like utilizing State Route 17 (SR-17), can offer alternative paths, though these may be subject to more stop-and-go traffic, increasing travel time.

Another vital facility is Lourdes Hospital, located at 169 Riverside Dr, Binghamton, NY 13905. Accessing Lourdes Hospital from 13902 often involves navigating city streets, such as Court Street or Riverside Drive. Drive times range from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the origin point and traffic flow. These shorter drives are beneficial but still require a reliable form of **transportation**.

Public transit in Binghamton, operated by the Broome County Transit (BCT), offers a degree of accessibility. Several bus routes serve the 13902 area, with routes 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 15, and 17 providing potential connections to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant impediment.

The BCT website indicates that all fixed-route buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, ensuring a degree of **ADA** compliance. Yet, the overall efficiency of public transit is often compromised by longer travel times compared to personal vehicles. Waiting times at bus stops and the need for transfers can significantly impact the time required to reach medical appointments.

For individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft offer an alternative. The availability of these services in Binghamton is generally good, but the cost can quickly accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can be variable, particularly during inclement weather or peak demand periods.

Medical transportation services also exist, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and various local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and luggage, making them particularly valuable for patients undergoing cancer treatment. However, these services come with a premium cost, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the impact of seasonal weather conditions. Binghamton experiences harsh winters, and snow and ice can significantly affect road conditions and public transit schedules. This adds another layer of complexity to the transportation equation. Delays and cancellations are common, requiring patients to plan for contingencies and potentially seek alternative transportation options.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital, access to specialized cancer care may necessitate travel to other facilities. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, for example, is a renowned cancer treatment center. The drive to Roswell Park from 13902 is approximately 3 hours via I-86 West and I-90 West. This long-distance travel underscores the critical importance of reliable **transportation** options for accessing specialized care.

Another consideration is the availability of parking at healthcare facilities. While both UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital offer parking, the cost and availability can be a concern. Patients undergoing treatment may require frequent visits, and parking fees can add up quickly. This further emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative transportation options, such as public transit or ride-sharing, to reduce the financial burden.

The **healthcare access** landscape in 13902 is a nuanced one. While the presence of major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services create significant challenges. These are crucial factors for anyone dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 13902, therefore, is not a simple metric. It's a complex assessment of the interplay between geographic location, available **transportation** options, and the financial and logistical burdens associated with accessing healthcare. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by patients and a commitment to finding solutions that improve their ability to receive timely and effective care.

For individuals considering **moving to Binghamton**, a thorough investigation of these transportation and healthcare factors is essential. Understanding the available resources and potential obstacles can help patients make informed decisions and plan for their healthcare needs. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 13902 have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their individual circumstances.

Ultimately, improving the "Lung Cancer Score" for 13902 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for improved public transit services, supporting initiatives that enhance the affordability of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and promoting policies that address the financial and logistical barriers to healthcare access. By working together, the community can strive to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for all residents, especially those battling lung cancer.