14478, Keuka Park, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14478, Keuka Park, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.92 percent of residents in 14478 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Soldiers And Sailors Memorial Hospital Of Yates with a distance of 7.07 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keuka Park (ZIP Code 14478)

The decision to relocate, especially to a place as picturesque as Keuka Park (ZIP Code 14478), often involves a myriad of considerations. Among these, the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for a serious condition like lung cancer, is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for residents and potential newcomers, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment based on available options and their limitations. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-share services, and medical transportation, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking lung cancer care in this Finger Lakes region.

Keuka Park, nestled amidst rolling hills and the serene waters of Keuka Lake, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, this tranquility comes with geographical considerations. The closest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating careful planning for those requiring regular treatments and check-ups. This analysis considers the practicalities of transportation, recognizing that timely access to care is crucial for positive outcomes.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents will be personal vehicles. The major arteries connecting Keuka Park to healthcare facilities are the New York State Route 54, which runs north and south along the western shore of Keuka Lake, and County Route 76, which provides access to the east. Route 54 offers a more direct route to Penn Yan, approximately 15 minutes away, where some primary care and specialist offices are available. However, for comprehensive cancer treatment, patients will likely need to travel further.

Traveling to the UR Medicine Thompson Health in Canandaigua, a regional healthcare provider, via Route 54 and then Route 245, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating winding roads and potential seasonal delays. Similarly, reaching the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) in Rochester, a major cancer treatment center, requires a drive of about an hour and a half, typically via Route 54, the I-390 North, and then the inner city roads. This longer commute presents significant challenges, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, who may experience fatigue and other side effects.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Yates County Transit provides bus services, but these are primarily focused on serving the local community and do not offer direct routes to major healthcare facilities outside of Penn Yan. The routes and schedules are designed for local errands and appointments, and may not accommodate the specific needs of cancer patients requiring frequent, time-sensitive transportation. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not be ADA-accessible, which can be a significant barrier for patients with mobility issues.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be unpredictable, particularly in a rural setting. While they offer a convenient option for occasional trips, they may not be a sustainable solution for regular appointments, especially during inclement weather or off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, adding a financial burden to the already significant costs associated with cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and specialized non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available, but these are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs or those unable to drive themselves. Ambulance services are primarily for emergency situations, while NEMT services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the types of appointments they can accommodate. The availability of these services can also vary, and patients may face delays or limitations depending on their insurance coverage and the specific needs of their treatment plan.

Considering these factors, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Keuka Park (ZIP Code 14478) is moderate. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle and proximity to natural beauty, the lack of readily available transportation options to comprehensive cancer care centers poses a significant challenge. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with the limitations of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, creates potential barriers to timely and consistent healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Keuka Park, or for current residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, careful planning is essential. This includes understanding the transportation options, assessing their reliability and cost, and establishing a support network to assist with appointments and treatments. The availability of family, friends, or community resources to provide transportation support is critical. Patients should also explore options for telemedicine appointments, when appropriate, to reduce the need for frequent travel.

Furthermore, proactive communication with healthcare providers is vital. Discussing transportation needs and potential challenges with the oncology team can help develop a personalized care plan that addresses these concerns. This may involve coordinating appointments to minimize travel time, exploring options for home healthcare, or seeking assistance from social workers or patient navigators who can help identify and access available resources.

The decision to relocate to Keuka Park, or to remain there while facing a lung cancer diagnosis, requires a holistic approach. While the area offers a peaceful and enriching environment, the logistical challenges of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. By understanding the transportation landscape, planning proactively, and leveraging available resources, residents can navigate these challenges and ensure timely access to the care they need. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of careful consideration and proactive planning when it comes to healthcare access in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, Finger Lakes community.