14548, Shortsville, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14548, Shortsville, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.82 percent of residents in 14548 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Springs Hospital And Clinic with a distance of 4.64 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shortsville (ZIP Code 14548)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical component of overall well-being. In Shortsville, New York (ZIP Code 14548), the accessibility of specialized care is a significant factor for residents. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the available *transportation* options and the resulting *healthcare access* for individuals in this community. This is especially relevant for anyone *moving to Shortsville* or already residing there, seeking to understand the practicalities of managing their health.

The score considers several key elements: drive times to relevant medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the existence of medical transport options. Each category is weighted based on its impact on patient experience and the potential for timely intervention, crucial in the fight against lung cancer.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Care**

The primary method of *transportation* for many Shortsville residents is personal vehicle. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in Canandaigua and Rochester. The drive to Thompson Health in Canandaigua, a facility with oncology services, is generally manageable. Taking County Road 33, a scenic route, the trip is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a reasonable timeframe, allowing for relatively quick access to initial consultations, diagnostic testing, and some treatments.

Rochester, a larger metropolitan area, offers a wider range of specialized cancer care at facilities like the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). The journey to Rochester involves traveling on NY-96 and then connecting to I-490. This drive is significantly longer, typically taking between 45 minutes to an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic. This extended travel time could pose a challenge for frequent appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or in emergency situations.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can make the roads treacherous, increasing travel duration and potentially hindering access to care. Residents should factor in these seasonal considerations when evaluating their *healthcare access*.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Shortsville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Ontario County Public Transit (OCPT) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to medical facilities. The routes may not directly serve the hospitals in Canandaigua or Rochester, requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times.

The OCPT system is designed to be ADA-accessible, meaning that buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other debilitating side effects. The lack of readily available public transit emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative *transportation* methods.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rochester area, but their presence in Shortsville is less consistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable and potentially expensive, impacting *healthcare access*.

Medical *transportation* services are a more specialized option, designed specifically to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like LifeLine Ambulance and Rural Metro offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) in the region. These services can provide door-to-door *transportation*, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services can be a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans, creating a financial barrier for some patients.

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

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Shortsville (ZIP Code 14548) reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive to Canandaigua offers a degree of *healthcare access* for some services. However, the longer travel time to Rochester, the limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges.

The score is further impacted by the cost of medical *transportation* services and the dependence on personal vehicles. The score is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly re-evaluated, particularly as the individual's health needs evolve.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals *moving to Shortsville* or currently residing there, it is crucial to carefully assess their *transportation* needs and plan accordingly. Establishing a reliable *transportation* plan is essential. This might involve relying on family and friends, exploring medical *transportation* options, or investigating the availability of ride-sharing services.

Individuals should also familiarize themselves with the local healthcare system and the specific services available at each facility. Understanding the types of treatment offered, the appointment scheduling process, and the insurance coverage for *transportation* can significantly improve *healthcare access*.

The availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can also be a valuable resource. These groups can provide information, emotional support, and assistance with navigating the healthcare system.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not simply about distance; it's about the practical realities of getting to and from medical appointments. For residents of Shortsville, the journey to healthcare requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to *transportation*. By understanding the challenges and exploring the available options, individuals can improve their *healthcare access* and increase their chances of successful treatment. This information is vital for anyone considering *moving to Shortsville*.