14510, Mount Morris, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14510, Mount Morris, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.15 percent of residents in 14510 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 13.06 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14510

Considering a move to Mount Morris, New York (ZIP Code 14510)? This assessment delves into the critical element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on lung cancer care, and how the local transportation infrastructure impacts that access. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing capabilities to paint a comprehensive picture, ultimately assigning a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the ease of navigating healthcare within this community.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer treatment is timely access to specialized care. This includes diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), consultations with oncologists and pulmonologists, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The ability to reach these services quickly and reliably is paramount, particularly for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis and its associated anxieties.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Mount Morris, nestled in Livingston County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary artery for accessing healthcare is undoubtedly Interstate 390 (I-390). This north-south highway provides a direct route to the major medical centers in Rochester, approximately 35-45 miles away. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times.

Heading south, I-390 offers access to medical facilities in Dansville, a shorter journey of about 15-20 minutes. However, the scope of specialized lung cancer care in Dansville is limited compared to Rochester.

Secondary roads play a vital role. Route 36, running north-south, serves as an alternative to I-390, offering a more scenic but potentially slower route. County Route 404 and Route 408 provide access to local communities and can be used to bypass congestion on the main highways.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in 14510 are limited. The Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS) provides demand-response transportation within Livingston County. While LATS offers ADA-compliant vehicles, its services are primarily for appointments and errands within the county. Direct routes to Rochester medical facilities are not typically available, necessitating a transfer or a combination of services.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive due to their health condition or financial constraints. Relying on LATS requires advance scheduling and can significantly extend travel times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Mount Morris is less consistent. Availability can be dependent on driver density and time of day. Securing a ride, especially for early morning appointments or after late-day treatments, might prove challenging.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transportation providers, offer a more reliable option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access Assessment:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 14510 considers several factors: the distance to comprehensive cancer care facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the affordability of those options.

The proximity to Rochester's medical centers, including Strong Memorial Hospital and the Wilmot Cancer Institute, offers a significant advantage. These facilities provide a full spectrum of lung cancer services, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services introduces a degree of uncertainty.

The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with medical transportation services further impact the score. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle face significant challenges in accessing timely and affordable care.

**The Lung Cancer Score:**

Considering the factors above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 14510 is a **6 out of 10**. This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Proximity to excellent cancer care facilities in Rochester (I-390 access).
* **Weaknesses:** Limited public transit, reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score" and enhance healthcare access for residents of 14510, several initiatives could be considered:

* **Advocacy for expanded public transit:** Working with LATS or other regional transportation providers to establish more frequent and direct routes to Rochester medical facilities, including weekend and evening service.
* **Partnerships with ride-sharing services:** Negotiating agreements with Uber and Lyft to ensure reliable service in Mount Morris, potentially offering subsidized rides for medical appointments.
* **Community outreach and education:** Raising awareness about available transportation options, including medical transportation services, and assisting individuals in navigating the healthcare system.
* **Telehealth integration:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education to reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Conclusion: Moving to Mount Morris**

Moving to Mount Morris offers a blend of rural charm and proximity to urban amenities. However, individuals considering a move, particularly those with a history of lung cancer or other health concerns, should carefully evaluate the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. While the availability of comprehensive cancer care in Rochester is a significant advantage, the limitations in public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or costlier transportation options warrant careful consideration. Planning ahead and exploring all available transportation alternatives is crucial for ensuring timely and convenient access to vital healthcare services. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about relocating to this community, especially when healthcare access is a primary concern.