14605, Rochester, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14605, Rochester, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.37 percent of residents in 14605 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rochester General Hospital with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14605**

The journey to healthcare, a vital lifeline for residents, takes on heightened significance when considering a diagnosis like lung cancer. The complexities of treatment, the frequency of appointments, and the emotional toll of the disease necessitate seamless transportation. This write-up examines the accessibility of lung cancer care within the 14605 ZIP code, offering a “Lung Cancer Score” based on transportation options and their potential impact on patients. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Rochester, seeking to understand healthcare access in their new community.

The 14605 ZIP code, encompassing a vibrant section of Rochester, New York, presents a mixed bag of transportation possibilities. The area's urban landscape, with its historic neighborhoods and bustling commercial districts, influences the availability and efficiency of various modes of travel. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Driving the Distance:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the drive times to major healthcare facilities are a primary concern. The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a leading cancer treatment center, is a central destination. From various points within 14605, the drive to URMC typically involves navigating the city streets and potentially utilizing the Inner Loop (Route 490). Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time. Expect a 10-20 minute drive, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the time of day.

Other important facilities, such as Rochester General Hospital, are also accessible by car. This journey often involves navigating East Avenue and Goodman Street, potentially encountering traffic congestion. The drive time to Rochester General Hospital from 14605 might range from 15 to 25 minutes, influenced by traffic patterns.

The availability of parking at these facilities is another factor to consider. Both URMC and Rochester General Hospital offer parking garages and surface lots, but these can fill up quickly, especially during busy times. Patients and their families should factor in potential delays in finding parking when planning their appointments.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public transportation options within 14605. Several bus routes traverse the area, offering access to healthcare facilities. The specific routes and their frequency are crucial for assessing their suitability for lung cancer patients.

Route 1, a major thoroughfare, connects to URMC and other medical centers. Route 2, Route 7, and Route 19 also provide access to healthcare facilities, albeit with varying degrees of convenience. The frequency of these routes is a critical factor. Waiting times, especially during off-peak hours, can be lengthy, potentially adding to the physical and emotional strain on patients.

The accessibility of RTS buses is another consideration. All RTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, navigating bus stops, especially in inclement weather, can be challenging for some patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need for parking and potentially reducing travel time. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are another option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, easing the burden on patients and their families. However, these services typically require prior scheduling and can have associated costs.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment:**

The “Lung Cancer Score” for 14605 is not a numerical value but a holistic assessment of transportation access, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each mode of transportation. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive times to major healthcare facilities, factoring in traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA features of RTS routes.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** The accessibility, cost, and convenience of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* **Parking Availability:** The availability and ease of parking at healthcare facilities.
* **Cost:** The financial implications of each transportation option.
* **Patient Needs:** The individual needs and preferences of lung cancer patients, including mobility limitations and emotional considerations.

Based on this assessment, the “Lung Cancer Score” for 14605 is **moderate**. While the area offers a variety of transportation options, each has its limitations. Driving provides the most flexibility but is subject to traffic and parking challenges. Public transit is accessible but may involve longer travel times and waiting periods. Ride-sharing and medical transport offer convenience but come with associated costs.

**Implications for Moving to Rochester:**

For individuals considering moving to Rochester and specifically to the 14605 ZIP code, this “Lung Cancer Score” provides valuable insights into healthcare access. The score highlights the importance of considering transportation needs when choosing a residence. Proximity to bus routes, the availability of parking, and the ease of accessing ride-sharing services should be important considerations.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Individual Needs:** Lung cancer patients should carefully assess their individual transportation needs, considering their physical condition, treatment schedule, and financial resources.
* **Explore All Options:** Patients should explore all available transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.
* **Plan Ahead:** Advance planning is crucial. Patients should schedule appointments in advance, factor in travel time, and arrange for transportation accordingly.
* **Utilize Support Services:** Patients should take advantage of support services offered by healthcare facilities and community organizations, such as transportation assistance programs and patient navigators.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Residents should advocate for improvements in public transportation and healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

Navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment is challenging. Ensuring reliable and accessible transportation is a critical aspect of providing quality care. The “Lung Cancer Score” for 14605 provides a framework for understanding transportation access, empowering patients and their families to make informed decisions and navigate their healthcare journey with greater ease and confidence. By carefully considering transportation needs, individuals can enhance their healthcare experience and improve their quality of life.