14485, Lima, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14485, Lima, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.39 percent of residents in 14485 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.69 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lima, NY (ZIP Code 14485)

The air in Lima, New York, crisp and clean, often whispers of a life lived close to nature. But even in this tranquil setting, the specter of lung cancer can cast a long shadow. Understanding your **healthcare access** is paramount, especially when facing a diagnosis that demands swift and consistent care. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options within and surrounding ZIP Code 14485, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of the challenges and opportunities you might encounter while seeking lung cancer treatment.

This score is not a scientific metric, but rather a practical guide, acknowledging the realities of navigating a rural landscape. It considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative **transportation** services. We'll assess the landscape to provide a clearer picture of **healthcare access** for anyone **moving to Lima**, or already residing within the 14485 ZIP code.

**The Lung Cancer Score is a 1-5 scale, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 the most readily available.**

**Driving Times: The Backbone of Access (Score: 3)**

Lima's location, nestled in the heart of Ontario County, dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments. The primary artery connecting Lima to the larger healthcare hubs is Route 15A, a two-lane highway that can become congested during peak hours. The drive to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, a major cancer treatment center, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 20A provides an alternate route, but it is a winding road with limited shoulders, potentially challenging for patients with mobility issues.

The drive to Thompson Health in Canandaigua, another option for cancer care, is closer, around 20-30 minutes via Route 15A and Route 5 & 20. This proximity offers a significant advantage, especially for those needing frequent appointments. However, these estimates don’t account for the potential for inclement weather, which can significantly impact travel times, particularly during the winter months.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option (Score: 1)**

Public **transportation** options in Lima are severely limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Ontario County Public Transit (OCPT) offers fixed-route services, but coverage in Lima is infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to larger towns like Canandaigua and Geneva. These routes may not directly serve medical facilities, necessitating multiple transfers and extended travel times.

Furthermore, the OCPT system may not have extensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on all its buses, which could create significant challenges for patients with mobility limitations. Information on specific ADA features, like wheelchair lifts or ramps, is available on the OCPT website, but it is vital to verify the availability on the specific routes and times needed. The lack of robust public transit is a major impediment to **healthcare access** for those unable to drive.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps (Score: 3)**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential solution for those unable to drive. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Surge pricing during peak demand can also significantly increase the cost of **transportation**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide a more reliable option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and can be expensive, but they offer a crucial lifeline for patients who cannot drive or use public transit. Investigating the insurance coverage for these services is essential, as it may alleviate some of the financial burden.

**Special Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

Lung cancer treatment often involves frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. This constant need for **transportation** can quickly become overwhelming. Patients may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and other side effects that make driving difficult or impossible.

The need for timely access to care is critical. Delays in treatment can negatively impact outcomes. Therefore, the reliability and accessibility of **transportation** options are paramount.

**The Lung Cancer Score for Lima, NY (14485): 2.3**

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Lima, NY, reflects a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. While the proximity to healthcare facilities like Thompson Health offers a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create considerable obstacles. The availability of medical **transportation** services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and the need for advance booking must be considered.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Lung Cancer in Lima:**

* **Prioritize a Reliable Transportation Plan:** Develop a comprehensive plan for **transportation** to and from medical appointments, including backup options.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Services:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services and determine if they are covered by insurance.
* **Utilize Support Networks:** Lean on family, friends, and community resources for assistance with **transportation**.
* **Consider Relocation:** If **moving to Lima**, carefully consider the **transportation** limitations and their impact on **healthcare access**.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public **transportation** options in the area, advocating for increased frequency, expanded routes, and enhanced ADA accessibility.

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a challenging journey. Understanding the **transportation** landscape in Lima, NY, is a crucial step in ensuring timely access to the care needed to fight this disease. By carefully evaluating your options and planning accordingly, you can improve your chances of a positive outcome.