14533, Piffard, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14533, Piffard, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.76 percent of residents in 14533 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wyoming County Community Hospital with a distance of 14.87 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Piffard, NY (ZIP Code 14533)

The air in Piffard, New York (ZIP code 14533), whispers tales of rolling hills and a close-knit community. But for those facing the daunting reality of a lung cancer diagnosis, the beauty of the landscape can be overshadowed by the crucial question: how easily can I access the healthcare I need? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation and healthcare access, essential factors for anyone considering moving to Piffard or already residing within its boundaries.

Our score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. We evaluate the potential challenges and opportunities for patients needing regular appointments, treatments, and specialized care. This information is crucial for informed decision-making, especially when battling a disease that demands timely and consistent medical attention.

**The Geography of Care: Drive Times and Highways**

Piffard, nestled in Livingston County, is a rural community. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest major hospitals and cancer centers are not immediately accessible. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents.

The primary artery for travel is New York State Route 390, a vital north-south corridor. To reach the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a major healthcare hub with comprehensive cancer care, a drive south on Route 390 is required. Expect a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive can be particularly challenging during winter months due to potential snow and ice.

Alternatively, heading east on Route 390 and connecting to Interstate 90 (the New York State Thruway) can provide access to healthcare facilities in Syracuse, though this adds significant travel time, typically exceeding 90 minutes. This option might be considered for specialized treatments not available locally.

Smaller hospitals and clinics are located in nearby towns like Geneseo, accessible via Route 20A and Route 39. These facilities offer primary care and some outpatient services, but generally lack the specialized oncology resources of larger hospitals. Drive times to Geneseo are typically under 20 minutes, making them a more accessible option for routine appointments.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Challenges**

Public transportation options in Piffard are limited, representing a significant challenge for individuals reliant on alternatives to driving. The Livingston Area Transportation Service (LATS) provides bus services within Livingston County. However, routes and schedules are infrequent, and service areas are restricted.

LATS routes might offer limited connectivity to Geneseo and other surrounding towns, but direct routes to Rochester or Syracuse are unlikely. The lack of direct and frequent public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. LATS vehicles are equipped with accessibility features like ramps and lifts. However, the limited route options and infrequent schedules pose a significant barrier for those needing regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Piffard is less consistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive.

Medical transport services offer a dedicated solution for patients needing assistance with transportation. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, medical transport services can be costly and require advance booking.

Several medical transport providers serve the Rochester and surrounding areas. These services often cater to patients needing transportation to dialysis, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other medical appointments. Researching and securing a reliable medical transport provider is crucial for individuals in Piffard facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

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

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Piffard, NY (ZIP code 14533) is moderate. While the area offers a sense of community and natural beauty, its rural location presents significant challenges to healthcare access.

The primary concern is the reliance on private vehicles for transportation. The drive times to major cancer centers in Rochester are substantial, and public transit options are severely limited. Ride-sharing services may be unreliable, and medical transport services add to the financial burden.

The score acknowledges the availability of local clinics and hospitals in nearby towns, providing access to primary care and some outpatient services. However, the lack of specialized oncology resources necessitates travel to larger facilities, increasing the complexity of healthcare access.

**Factors to Consider for Those Moving to Piffard**

Individuals considering moving to Piffard, especially those with a history of lung cancer or other serious health conditions, must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges. The following points are crucial:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Assess the distance and accessibility of cancer centers and hospitals.
* **Transportation Alternatives:** Identify reliable transportation options, including ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential for family or friend support.
* **Financial Planning:** Factor in the costs of transportation, including gas, car maintenance, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport services.
* **Support Network:** Cultivate a strong support network of family, friends, and community members who can assist with transportation and other needs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road to Recovery**

For residents of Piffard facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the journey to recovery involves more than just medical treatment. It requires careful planning and proactive strategies to overcome the challenges of transportation and healthcare access.

While the rural setting presents obstacles, a combination of careful planning, utilizing available resources, and building a strong support network can help individuals navigate the complexities of healthcare access. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of considering these factors when making decisions about where to live and how to receive the care needed to fight this challenging disease.