18850, Ulster, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18850, Ulster, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.90 percent of residents in 18850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 9.14 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: A Transportation Analysis for Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 18850**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing a diagnosis like lung cancer, requires a comprehensive understanding of available transportation options. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 18850, a region in Ulster County, New York, assessing its transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing vital medical care. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a metric reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare facilities specializing in lung cancer treatment, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Ulster, particularly those with or at risk of developing lung cancer.

The location of ZIP Code 18850 presents unique challenges. It is a rural area, and the availability of robust public transportation is limited. The nearest major medical centers specializing in oncology are located in larger towns and cities, creating a need for reliable and efficient transportation solutions. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider these factors, offering a practical assessment of the area's healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in 18850 will be personal vehicles. The road network, while scenic, can present challenges. The main thoroughfares are the New York State Route 28 and the New York State Route 214. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak travel times and inclement weather.

The drive to the nearest major hospitals with oncology departments, such as HealthAlliance Hospital in Kingston, NY, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP Code. This drive primarily involves using Route 28. Further specialized care, such as that offered at the Albany Medical Center, requires a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via the New York State Thruway (I-87).

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact these drive times. Snow and ice can lead to delays and make travel hazardous, highlighting the importance of a reliable vehicle and preparedness for adverse weather conditions. This is a critical factor in the "Lung Cancer Score," as delays can negatively affect timely access to treatment.

**Public Transit Accessibility**

Public transportation options in 18850 are limited. The Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially in the more rural areas of the ZIP Code. The primary UCAT routes serving the area may not directly connect to major medical facilities, necessitating transfers or requiring significant walking distances.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on UCAT buses varies. While all buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, service frequency and route coverage may not fully accommodate the needs of individuals with mobility limitations. This limitation further reduces the viability of public transit as a primary mode of transportation for lung cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatment and experiencing fatigue or other side effects. The lack of comprehensive public transit options significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their reliability and availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, are available, but their cost can be substantial. These services often provide door-to-door transport, which is beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. However, the limited number of providers and the cost of these services can be a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

**Medical Transportation Brands**

Several medical transportation brands operate in the Ulster County area, including:

* **AmbuBus:** A well-known provider offering non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Care Ride:** Another option for medical transport, often used by insurance providers.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergencies, some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transport.

The availability and cost of these services are crucial considerations in the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Lung Cancer Score Calculation and Interpretation**

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above:

* **Drive Times:** Weighting will be based on the average drive time to major hospitals with oncology departments. Shorter drive times will receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of public transit will be assessed. Higher scores will be given to areas with more comprehensive and accessible public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will be evaluated. Areas with more accessible and affordable options will receive higher scores.

The final score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing very poor access and 10 representing excellent access. This score provides a practical assessment of the transportation challenges faced by lung cancer patients in 18850.

**Implications for Moving to Ulster and Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Ulster County, particularly those with a history of or risk factors for lung cancer, this analysis is critical. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable tool for assessing the area's suitability, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

The score will also highlight areas where improvements in transportation infrastructure and healthcare services are needed. This information can be used by local authorities and healthcare providers to advocate for better public transit options, expanded ride-sharing services, and increased availability of affordable medical transportation.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 18850 is a crucial metric for understanding the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in this rural area. The score, derived from an evaluation of transportation options, serves as a valuable resource for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers, ultimately contributing to better healthcare outcomes for individuals facing lung cancer. The assessment underscores the vital connection between effective transportation and the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.