12942, Keene, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 12942, Keene, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.61 percent of residents in 12942 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: Keene, NY (ZIP Code 12942)**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis necessitates a multifaceted approach, and access to timely and appropriate healthcare is paramount. This analysis assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding Keene, NY (ZIP Code 12942), offering a "Prostate Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access vital medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. It is crucial to remember that this is a snapshot, and individual needs may vary.

Keene, nestled within the Adirondack Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. The area's relative remoteness impacts healthcare access, especially for those requiring specialized treatments like prostate cancer care. The goal is to paint a clear picture for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Keene, and those seeking to understand the complexities of healthcare access in this picturesque region.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Keene are the New York State Route 73 and the New York State Route 9N. These roadways, while scenic, can become congested during peak tourist seasons, potentially extending travel times to medical appointments.

For those residing in Keene, the nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in Plattsburgh, NY, and Burlington, VT. The drive to Plattsburgh, utilizing Route 9N and then Interstate 87 (the Northway), typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. Burlington, accessible via Route 73, Route 9N, and then Interstate 87 and Route 104, entails a drive of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. These estimates do not account for potential delays caused by weather, which can be a significant factor in the Adirondacks, particularly during winter.

The drive to larger medical centers in Albany, NY, or even Boston, MA, becomes a significantly longer undertaking, making them less practical for routine appointments or urgent care needs. The time commitment for these longer journeys could impact the overall healthcare experience.

**Public Transit Perspectives**

Public transportation options in Keene are limited. The primary provider is the Essex County Public Transportation System (ECPT), which offers a dial-a-ride service. However, this service may require advance booking and has limited operational hours, potentially posing challenges for those needing unscheduled or early morning appointments. The ECPT does not have fixed routes within Keene, making it less convenient for spontaneous travel.

The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While the ECPT strives to provide accessible transportation, availability may be constrained, and it is essential to confirm ADA-compliant features when scheduling rides. The lack of a robust public transit system is a significant factor impacting the Prostate Cancer Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Landscape**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in the Adirondack region, including Keene. Availability is sporadic, and wait times can be considerable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is not a reliable option in this area.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several providers offer non-emergency medical transport, including ambulance services and private companies specializing in patient transport. These services can be pre-booked for scheduled appointments and may offer door-to-door service. However, these services can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies. It is essential to investigate insurance coverage and explore all available options when considering medical transportation.

**Prostate Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Keene, NY (ZIP Code 12942), reflects the challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The score is based on the following factors: drive times to cancer care facilities, public transit availability, ride-sharing reliability, and medical transportation options.

Given the drive times to Plattsburgh and Burlington, the limited public transit, and the unreliable ride-sharing options, the score is negatively impacted. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial, albeit costly, alternative.

The score also considers the impact of weather and seasonal variations on travel times. The Adirondack region experiences harsh winters, which can significantly increase travel times and make transportation more difficult.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer or those seeking to move to Keene, a thorough evaluation of transportation needs is crucial.

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** Consider the location of medical facilities and the feasibility of accessing them regularly.
* **Investigate medical transportation options:** Explore available medical transport services and understand insurance coverage.
* **Plan for potential delays:** Account for weather-related delays and traffic congestion when scheduling appointments.
* **Explore carpooling and support networks:** Connect with local support groups and explore carpooling options to share transportation responsibilities.
* **Consider telehealth options:** Utilize telehealth services for routine check-ups and consultations when feasible.

**Conclusion**

The Prostate Cancer Score for Keene, NY (ZIP Code 12942), highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness in navigating healthcare access. While the natural beauty of the Adirondacks is undeniable, the remoteness of the region presents challenges for those seeking convenient and timely medical care. Understanding the transportation landscape is vital for ensuring a positive healthcare experience and maintaining quality of life. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Keene and seeking to understand the implications of healthcare access.