14411, Albion, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14411, Albion, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.24 percent of residents in 14411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Lung Cancer Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in Albion, NY (ZIP Code 14411)

The crisp air of Albion, New York, a town steeped in history and nestled along the Erie Canal, holds a particular resonance for those considering a move. However, the allure of this charming community must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals concerned about lung cancer. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical care within and around ZIP code 14411.

The score is not a definitive medical judgment but rather a practical guide, examining the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transportation options, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape.

Albion, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. The primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the region. The major thoroughfare is New York State Route 31, which bisects the town, providing access to essential services and connecting Albion to surrounding areas.

For those seeking specialized lung cancer care, the drive to Rochester, approximately 35 miles east, becomes a critical consideration. This journey typically involves taking NY-31 East, merging onto the Rochester-bound NY-531 West, and then navigating city streets to reach hospitals like Strong Memorial Hospital or the University of Rochester Medical Center. The drive time, under normal traffic conditions, is around 45 minutes to an hour. This time can fluctuate significantly during rush hour, potentially adding considerable stress for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms.

Another option is to head west on NY-31 to reach the city of Buffalo, which is about 60 miles away, with a drive time of approximately an hour and a half, depending on traffic. This route involves NY-31 West, connecting to the NY-990E and then onto the I-90 East. This route offers access to hospitals like Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, renowned for its specialized cancer care.

Public transportation in Albion is limited, which significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The Orleans County Public Transit provides bus service, but its routes are primarily focused on local travel within Orleans County. Direct routes to Rochester or Buffalo are not available. This necessitates a multi-leg journey, potentially involving transfers and extended travel times, making it less practical for regular medical appointments.

The Orleans County Public Transit buses may offer some ADA-accessible features, but it is important to confirm this information directly with the transit authority to ensure it meets individual needs. The lack of robust public transportation poses a significant hurdle for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive, particularly those facing mobility challenges due to lung cancer or its treatment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Albion, but their availability and reliability can be variable. The frequency of drivers and the potential for surge pricing, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can impact the affordability and accessibility of these services. Patients relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments need to factor in these uncertainties when planning their transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services, while often more expensive than ride-sharing, offer a higher degree of reliability and are tailored to the needs of patients. The availability and cost of these services in Albion should be investigated as part of any healthcare planning.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Albion, NY (14411) is impacted by the following factors:

* **Reliance on Personal Vehicles:** The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, making it crucial for residents to be able to drive or have access to a driver.
* **Drive Times to Specialized Care:** Drive times to Rochester (45 minutes to an hour) and Buffalo (an hour and a half) are significant, potentially adding to patient stress and fatigue.
* **Limited Public Transit:** The lack of direct public transit routes to major medical centers poses a challenge for those without access to a car.
* **Ride-Share Variability:** Ride-sharing services are available, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Medical transportation services offer a more reliable option, but their cost needs to be considered.

For someone considering moving to Albion with concerns about lung cancer, the "Lung Cancer Score" suggests careful consideration of transportation needs. While the drive times to specialized care are manageable, the limited public transit and the variability of ride-sharing services necessitate proactive planning. Individuals should investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services and assess their ability to rely on personal vehicles or secure reliable transportation assistance.

The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor in any decision to relocate. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape in Albion, NY (14411), and its impact on accessing timely and effective medical care. Residents should assess their individual transportation needs and plan accordingly to ensure they can receive the necessary care for lung cancer.