14420, Brockport, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14420, Brockport, New York is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.18 percent of residents in 14420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is F F Thompson Hospital with a distance of 40.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brockport, NY (ZIP Code 14420)

The air in Brockport, New York, whispers with the history of the Erie Canal, the gentle pulse of a college town, and the quiet determination of its residents. For those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, however, the serene landscape can quickly transform into a complex map of healthcare access. Understanding the transportation options, and the potential challenges, is crucial. This "Lung Cancer Score" aims to provide a detailed overview of transportation infrastructure and resources available to residents of ZIP Code 14420, specifically focusing on their ability to reach essential medical appointments and treatment centers. This is especially relevant for anyone considering moving to Brockport.

The very nature of lung cancer treatment, often involving frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care, places a significant burden on patients and their families. Reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it is a lifeline. Delays, cancellations, and logistical nightmares can exacerbate the stress of an already challenging situation. This analysis considers the primary modes of transportation available, evaluating their accessibility, reliability, and the overall impact on the patient's well-being.

**Driving the Landscape: Navigating Highways and Roads**

For many Brockport residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways offers both opportunities and potential pitfalls. Route 19, a north-south artery, provides direct access to Brockport, connecting to the larger network. Route 31, running east-west, intersects with Route 19 in the heart of the village, offering another crucial link. Interstate 490, a major east-west highway, lies just south of Brockport, offering a faster route to Rochester and its comprehensive medical facilities.

The drive time to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a leading cancer treatment center, via I-490, typically ranges from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey often involves navigating the bustling city streets of Rochester, which can add to the travel time, especially during peak hours. Strong Memorial Hospital, also part of URMC, is a primary destination for many cancer patients.

The Genesee Hospital, also in Rochester, is another option, reachable via I-490 and local roads. Smaller clinics and specialist offices may be closer, but the availability of specialized cancer care often necessitates travel to larger facilities. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and create accessibility issues for those with mobility limitations. Regular snow removal is essential, but even with diligent efforts, icy conditions can present challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

The availability of public transportation in Brockport is a significant factor in healthcare access. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), operating as the RTS, provides bus service to Brockport. The primary routes serving the area are the 76 and 77, which connect Brockport to Rochester.

These routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative to driving, are limited in their frequency and operating hours, particularly on weekends and evenings. The bus schedules must be carefully considered when scheduling medical appointments. The travel time to Rochester via bus can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the journey.

ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the public transit system. However, navigating the bus system with mobility limitations, especially after a medical procedure, can still present challenges. The availability of accessible stops and the ease of boarding and disembarking are crucial considerations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as a viable transportation option in Brockport. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies such as Care Ride and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, often equipped with wheelchair accessibility and trained drivers. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who are unable to drive or utilize public transportation due to their medical condition. The cost of medical transport is typically higher than public transit or ride-sharing, but the added convenience and specialized care can be invaluable.

**A Holistic Assessment: The Lung Cancer Score**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 14420 reflects a nuanced reality. While the availability of major roadways offers relatively quick access to major medical centers in Rochester, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependence that can be problematic for those unable to drive or who lack access to a vehicle. The limited public transit options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services highlight the gaps in the transportation infrastructure.

For individuals considering moving to Brockport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors such as their medical condition, mobility limitations, and financial resources must be carefully considered. The availability of family support and the proximity to essential services are also crucial.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static metric; it is a dynamic assessment that must be continually updated to reflect changes in the transportation landscape. As new technologies and services emerge, the options available to patients will evolve. The goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions, ensuring that they have access to the care they need, when they need it, regardless of their transportation challenges. The importance of healthcare access cannot be overstated, and understanding the transportation options is a crucial first step in navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.