14529, Perkinsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14529, Perkinsville, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 14529 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 28.79 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Perkinsville, NY (ZIP Code 14529)**

The air in Perkinsville, New York, whispers of rolling hills and quiet living. Yet, for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the serenity can be shattered by the complex reality of accessing specialized healthcare. This report, a “Lung Cancer Score,” analyzes the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 14529, assessing the ease of reaching vital medical services. We consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This is crucial information for residents and those considering moving to Perkinsville, as it directly impacts healthcare access.

The primary concern for a lung cancer patient is timely and consistent access to treatment. This includes diagnostic imaging, consultations with oncologists and pulmonologists, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up appointments. The ability to navigate the transportation network efficiently and affordably is therefore paramount.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

Perkinsville is a rural community. This geographic isolation significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers are located in the cities of Rochester and Buffalo, both requiring considerable travel.

Traveling by car is the most common method of transportation. From Perkinsville, the journey to Rochester, home to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and Strong Memorial Hospital, is approximately a 60-75 minute drive, depending on traffic. The primary route involves taking County Road 13 and then connecting to Interstate 390 North. This stretch of I-390 can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, particularly around the Rochester suburbs.

The drive to Buffalo, where Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is located, is a more arduous undertaking. This trip typically takes around two hours, primarily via I-390 North to I-90 West (New York State Thruway). This journey is significantly longer and more susceptible to delays due to weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Smaller, local hospitals, such as Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, are closer, offering some primary care and limited specialized services. However, they may not have the comprehensive oncology departments required for advanced lung cancer treatment.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options are limited in Perkinsville and the surrounding areas. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

The Regional Transit Service (RTS) does not directly serve Perkinsville. The closest RTS routes may be accessible in nearby towns like Dansville, but these routes typically offer limited service, often operating only during weekdays and with infrequent schedules. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) on these routes may vary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester and Buffalo areas, but their availability in Perkinsville is less reliable. The cost of using ride-sharing for frequent medical appointments can quickly become prohibitive.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance with transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides to and from medical appointments.

One such provider is CareRide, which offers transportation services within a wide radius. However, availability and cost can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the distance traveled. Other companies, such as Logisticare, often work with insurance providers to offer transportation benefits to eligible patients.

**The Score: Healthcare Access Assessment**

Given the transportation challenges, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Perkinsville, NY (14529) is moderately low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the long drive times to major medical centers, the limited public transportation options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to this score.

The score reflects a significant challenge for lung cancer patients in accessing timely and convenient healthcare. This situation underscores the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system.

**Considerations for Moving to Perkinsville**

For individuals considering moving to Perkinsville, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, the transportation landscape must be a primary consideration. The distance to specialized medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the limited availability of alternative transportation options can significantly impact the quality of life and access to treatment.

Potential residents should research the availability and cost of medical transportation services, assess the feasibility of driving to appointments, and consider the potential for relying on family members or friends for transportation assistance. Thoroughly evaluating these factors is essential before making a move.

**Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Perkinsville highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers the tranquility of country living, the challenges of transportation to specialized medical care must be acknowledged. The successful management of lung cancer in Perkinsville requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to navigating the transportation network. For those considering moving to Perkinsville, a comprehensive understanding of these factors is critical for ensuring access to the vital healthcare services needed for a healthy and fulfilling life. The journey to healthcare, therefore, becomes an integral part of the journey to recovery.