14617, Rochester, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14617, Rochester, New York is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.45 percent of residents in 14617 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rochester General Hospital with a distance of 2.15 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14617

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, a sentiment particularly poignant for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. In the heart of Rochester, New York, ZIP code 14617, the journey to healthcare access becomes a critical factor in the fight. This analysis unveils the landscape of transportation options, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" to illuminate the realities of navigating treatment and care. This score considers drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, ultimately providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Rochester.

The geography of 14617, a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial hubs, presents a unique challenge. The dominant roadways, including Interstate 490 (I-490) and the Rochester Inner Loop, serve as arteries, connecting residents to major healthcare providers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Imagine the urgency of a follow-up appointment, the anxiety amplified by a delay. The time spent in transit directly affects the patient's well-being, making efficient transportation an absolute necessity.

Drive times to key healthcare facilities, such as Strong Memorial Hospital and the Wilmot Cancer Institute, are crucial elements of the Lung Cancer Score. A short drive, ideally under 15 minutes, receives a high score, reflecting ease of access. Longer drives, especially those exceeding 30 minutes, necessitate a lower score, recognizing the increased burden on the patient. The score considers the impact of rush hour traffic on I-490 and the Inner Loop, factoring in potential delays that can significantly impact healthcare access.

Public transportation, provided by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), offers an alternative to driving. Several bus routes service 14617, including the number 1, 2, and 7, offering varying degrees of healthcare access. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the frequency of these routes, the proximity of bus stops to residential areas, and the overall reliability of the service. The presence of ADA-accessible features, such as ramps and audio-visual announcements, is factored in to ensure inclusivity for all patients.

However, public transportation in Rochester, while improving, still presents challenges. Bus routes may not always align perfectly with appointment schedules, requiring patients to factor in waiting times. Transfers between routes can further extend travel times. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges these limitations, adjusting the score to reflect the overall convenience and efficiency of public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of these services in 14617, as well as the average cost of rides to healthcare facilities. While ride-sharing offers convenience and flexibility, the cost can be a significant factor for patients, particularly those undergoing extended treatment. The score acknowledges the financial implications of these services, adjusting accordingly.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are crucial. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of medical transport providers in the area, such as Lifetime Assistance, Inc., and the cost and accessibility of their services. The score prioritizes the availability of these services, recognizing their vital role in ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 14617 is a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of all transportation options. The score is designed to be a dynamic tool, constantly evolving as transportation infrastructure and services improve. It is a critical consideration for anyone facing a lung cancer diagnosis, and for those considering moving to Rochester, it provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access.

The journey to healthcare access is not merely a matter of distance; it's a complex interplay of time, cost, and convenience. The Lung Cancer Score for 14617 aims to illuminate this landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. The score will be adjusted based on the evolving landscape of transportation in Rochester, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents.

The healthcare landscape in 14617 is shaped by the interplay of transportation infrastructure and service availability. The Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for navigating this landscape. It offers a realistic assessment of healthcare access, considering the drive times on I-490 and the Inner Loop, the reliability of RGRTA bus routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the specialized support offered by medical transportation providers.

The challenges are real. The traffic on I-490 can be a significant hurdle. The bus routes, while offering an alternative, may not always align with appointment schedules. The cost of ride-sharing can be a burden. The availability of medical transport services is critical, but not always readily accessible. The Lung Cancer Score acknowledges these realities, providing a balanced perspective on the transportation landscape.

The score is not just about numbers; it's about the human experience. It's about the patient facing a lung cancer diagnosis, navigating the complexities of treatment and care. It's about the need for timely appointments, convenient transportation, and accessible services. It's about the importance of healthcare access.

The Lung Cancer Score for 14617 is a living document, constantly evolving to reflect the changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access in Rochester. It is a valuable tool for patients, caregivers, and anyone considering moving to the area. It is a testament to the importance of healthcare access and the need for ongoing efforts to improve the lives of those facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The score is designed to be a catalyst for positive change, encouraging improvements in transportation infrastructure and service delivery. It is a call to action, urging the community to prioritize healthcare access and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive the care they need.