13904, Binghamton, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 13904, Binghamton, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.58 percent of residents in 13904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greater Binghamton Health Center with a distance of 0.88 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13904

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change in Binghamton, New York, ZIP code 13904. For those considering a move, or already residing within its boundaries, understanding the realities of healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer treatment, is paramount. This write-up delivers a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, focusing on the crucial element of transportation, the vital link between residents and life-saving medical care.

Binghamton, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Southern Tier, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The Susquehanna River carves its path through the city, influencing traffic patterns and transportation options. Our assessment begins with the assumption of a hypothetical patient diagnosed with lung cancer, requiring regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery), and follow-up care.

The primary healthcare hub for this patient will likely be located at either UHS Wilson Medical Center or Lourdes Hospital, both offering comprehensive cancer care. The distance from 13904 to these facilities, and the ease of navigating that journey, forms the core of our transportation analysis.

**Driving the Distance:**

For many, the personal automobile remains the most prevalent mode of transportation. The journey to UHS Wilson Medical Center, located at 33-57 Harrison Street, necessitates traversing the city’s arterial roads. From the heart of 13904, a drive utilizing **Interstate 81 (I-81)** is a likely choice. Depending on the specific origin point within the ZIP code, accessing I-81 might involve navigating local streets like **Court Street** or **Chenango Street**, both of which can experience congestion during peak hours.

Once on I-81, the trip to Wilson Medical Center is relatively straightforward, taking approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, traffic incidents, weather conditions, and rush-hour congestion can significantly extend this commute, potentially adding considerable stress to an already challenging situation.

Lourdes Hospital, located at 169 Riverside Drive, offers another crucial option. The drive to Lourdes from 13904 typically involves using **Court Street** or **Chenango Street** to connect with **Riverside Drive**. This route is generally less prone to interstate traffic woes, but still susceptible to local congestion. Expect a drive time of around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

The availability of parking at both hospitals is a factor. Both offer ample parking, but navigating parking garages and finding a suitable spot can add to the overall travel time and burden, particularly for patients experiencing fatigue or mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Critical Alternative:**

For those without personal vehicles, or those seeking an alternative, the Broome County Transit (BCT) system provides public transportation. Several bus routes service the 13904 ZIP code, with varying degrees of frequency and accessibility to the healthcare facilities.

The **Route 1** bus route, for instance, offers service along Court Street, potentially providing access to UHS Wilson Medical Center. The **Route 12** bus route, which runs along Riverside Drive, could provide access to Lourdes Hospital.

However, the effectiveness of public transit for lung cancer patients hinges on several factors. The frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours, can be a significant limitation. Waiting times can be lengthy, adding to the overall travel duration and potentially exacerbating patient discomfort.

Furthermore, the accessibility of the BCT system is crucial. All BCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a critical consideration for patients undergoing treatment, who may experience mobility limitations. However, the distance from bus stops to the healthcare facilities, and the potential need for transfers, can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and offering door-to-door service. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Binghamton can vary, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could increase costs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, also exist. Companies such as LogistiCare and ModivCare (formerly MTM) often contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including those related to cancer treatment. Eligibility for these services depends on individual insurance coverage and medical necessity.

**Lung Cancer Score Considerations:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 13904, therefore, is a complex assessment, balancing the advantages and disadvantages of various transportation options. The score must consider the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to both UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital, factoring in traffic and parking.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of BCT bus routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** The reliability and affordability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability and eligibility criteria for medical transportation services.
* **Patient Mobility:** The impact of treatment-related side effects on a patient's ability to drive or utilize public transportation.

**Moving to Binghamton:**

For individuals considering moving to Binghamton, particularly those with a history of, or risk factors for, lung cancer, the transportation landscape must be carefully evaluated. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services should be prioritized when choosing a residence.

The choice of location within 13904, or in a neighboring ZIP code with better transportation access, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and quality of life.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 13904 reflects a mixed bag. While driving offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, traffic and parking can pose challenges. Public transit provides an alternative, but frequency and accessibility are key considerations. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer additional options, but their availability and cost must be assessed. Ultimately, the best transportation solution will vary depending on individual circumstances and needs. For those facing the complexities of lung cancer, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape in 13904 is crucial for navigating the journey to healthcare and improving their chances of a positive outcome.