14618, Rochester, New York Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 14618, Rochester, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.56 percent of residents in 14618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland Hospital with a distance of 2.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14618

Considering a move to Rochester, New York, specifically the 14618 ZIP code? This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score," a hypothetical metric assessing ease of access to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, focusing on transportation options. This score is crucial, as timely access to healthcare significantly impacts outcomes. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a picture of healthcare access within this community.

The 14618 ZIP code, nestled in the heart of Rochester, presents a unique blend of urban and suburban landscapes. Its central location offers proximity to major healthcare providers, but transportation realities significantly shape the patient experience. Our "Lung Cancer Score" considers these realities, emphasizing the practicalities of getting to appointments, undergoing treatments, and accessing support services.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Accessing healthcare in 14618 often involves navigating Rochester's network of roads. The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), a leading cancer center, is a central destination. From 14618, reaching URMC typically involves a drive of 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

The primary routes are the I-490, a major east-west artery, and the Inner Loop, which circumnavigates the city. Navigating these highways, particularly during rush hour, can add considerable time to the journey. The I-390 offers another route, especially for those residing on the western side of the ZIP code. Smaller roads like West Henrietta Road and East Henrietta Road provide alternative, albeit slower, routes.

The drive to Strong Memorial Hospital, a key component of URMC, is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion can be a significant factor, especially during morning and evening commutes. Consider the time of day when scheduling appointments and factor in potential delays.

**Public Transit: The Bus Routes and Their Challenges**

The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes serve the 14618 area, offering a potentially affordable alternative to driving. However, public transit presents its own set of challenges, particularly for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

The primary routes serving 14618 include routes 1, 2, 3, and 7. These routes offer varying levels of service frequency and coverage. While the RTS strives for accessibility, the reality is that travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Waiting times at bus stops, transfers between routes, and potential delays due to traffic or weather can add considerable stress to an already challenging situation.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. All RTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, navigating the system, especially for those experiencing fatigue or mobility issues related to cancer treatment, can be difficult. Planning ahead, checking schedules, and considering the physical demands of the journey are essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Options and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an on-demand transportation option. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The availability of ride-sharing services in 14618 is generally good, but prices can fluctuate based on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, provide a more specialized service. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs, offering door-to-door transportation and assistance with mobility. While these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they offer a higher level of support and convenience.

**The "Lung Cancer Score" and its Implications**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 14618, considering the factors above, would likely reflect a mixed picture. The proximity to major healthcare providers is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on driving, the limitations of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation all contribute to a complex picture.

For individuals with lung cancer, or those at high risk, the ease of transportation directly impacts healthcare access. Delays in diagnosis or treatment can significantly affect outcomes. Therefore, a thorough understanding of transportation options is critical.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** The close proximity of URMC and other medical centers is a significant positive factor.
* **Drive times:** The potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can negatively impact the score.
* **Public transit accessibility:** The availability of bus routes is a positive, but the longer travel times and potential challenges of navigating the system can detract from the score.
* **Ride-sharing availability and cost:** The availability of ride-sharing services offers flexibility, but the cost can be a barrier for some.
* **Medical transportation options:** The availability of specialized medical transportation services provides a valuable resource, but the cost can be a limiting factor.
* **ADA accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Moving to Rochester and Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Rochester, the 14618 ZIP code offers a good balance of urban convenience and access to healthcare. However, it's essential to carefully evaluate transportation needs and preferences. If driving is not an option, or if traffic congestion is a concern, exploring public transit routes, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services is crucial.

**Conclusion: A Call for Proactive Planning**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 14618 highlights the importance of proactive planning. Individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, or those at high risk, should thoroughly investigate transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Planning ahead, considering potential delays, and understanding the financial implications of each option will significantly enhance healthcare access and improve the overall patient experience. The availability of healthcare in Rochester is strong, but the journey to that care requires careful consideration of transportation realities.