14541, Romulus, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14541, Romulus, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.02 percent of residents in 14541 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Soldiers And Sailors Memorial Hospital Of Yates with a distance of 12.41 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Romulus, NY (ZIP Code 14541)

The specter of a lung cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Romulus, New York (ZIP Code 14541), the ability to reach specialized medical care is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This analysis delves into the nuances of **transportation** options available, assessing their impact on **healthcare access** and ultimately, constructing a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by those needing timely treatment. This is especially relevant for individuals **moving to Romulus**, who must understand the local healthcare landscape.

Romulus, a rural community nestled in the Finger Lakes region, presents unique challenges for healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger urban centers, necessitating travel. The **transportation** infrastructure, therefore, becomes a crucial determinant of patient outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services.

The primary arteries connecting Romulus to healthcare hubs are the New York State Thruway (I-90) and Route 96. Driving to the Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester Medical Center, a premier cancer treatment facility, typically takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering roughly 60 miles. This drive, primarily on I-90, can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. Route 96 provides an alternative, albeit a slower, route, offering scenic views but adding considerable time to the journey.

The drive to Guthrie Corning Hospital, another potential healthcare destination, is shorter, around 1 hour, covering approximately 50 miles. This route primarily involves Route 96 and Route 14, which may experience delays due to seasonal tourism or local events. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the need for efficient **transportation** planning, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transit options within Romulus are limited. The Seneca County Transit System (SCTS) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically tailored to medical appointments. Ridership is limited to certain days and times. Accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is a significant concern. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on some buses, but the overall network coverage and frequency may pose challenges for individuals requiring regular healthcare visits. The lack of readily accessible public **transportation** highlights a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural regions. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for long-distance trips to cancer centers, may be difficult. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, adding to the stress of a cancer diagnosis. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services are critical factors in assessing the **healthcare access** landscape in Romulus.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. Companies like Rural/Metro Medical Services and other local providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services provide door-to-door assistance, alleviating some of the burdens of traveling to appointments. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other **transportation** options and may require advance booking, potentially creating delays in accessing care.

The Lung Cancer Score for Romulus, NY (ZIP Code 14541) is constructed based on the following weighted factors: Drive time to major cancer centers (40%), public transit accessibility (20%), ride-sharing availability and cost (20%), and medical transport options (20%). Each factor is assessed on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access.

Drive times are evaluated based on average travel times to the Wilmot Cancer Institute and Guthrie Corning Hospital, considering potential delays due to traffic or weather. Public transit is assessed based on route frequency, accessibility features, and coverage. Ride-sharing is scored based on availability, cost, and reliability. Medical transport services are evaluated based on availability, cost, and the level of support offered.

The Lung Cancer Score for Romulus reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While drive times to major cancer centers are manageable, the lack of robust public **transportation** options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net, but their cost and the need for advance booking can create barriers.

For individuals **moving to Romulus**, this score provides a realistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. It underscores the importance of having a reliable personal vehicle or exploring the medical transport options. It also highlights the need to plan appointments well in advance, considering potential delays and the availability of **transportation** services.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static metric. It is subject to change based on evolving **transportation** infrastructure, the introduction of new services, and improvements in public transit. As the population ages and the prevalence of cancer increases, the need for accessible and affordable **transportation** to healthcare facilities will only intensify.

The challenges faced by Romulus residents underscore the importance of proactive measures to improve **healthcare access**. This includes advocating for expanded public transit services, supporting the growth of ride-sharing options, and ensuring the affordability and availability of medical transport services.

Further research is needed to assess the specific needs of lung cancer patients in Romulus. This could involve surveys to understand their **transportation** challenges, their experiences with different **transportation** options, and their preferences for improving **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Romulus, NY (ZIP Code 14541) reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access**, with drive times to major cancer centers being a primary consideration. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net, but their cost and the need for advance booking can create barriers. For individuals **moving to Romulus**, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring timely and effective cancer care. Continuous efforts to improve **transportation** infrastructure and expand healthcare resources are crucial for improving the quality of life for all residents.