13618, Cape Vincent, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13618, Cape Vincent, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.11 percent of residents in 13618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 22.23 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cape Vincent (ZIP Code 13618)

The tranquil beauty of Cape Vincent, New York (ZIP Code 13618), offers a compelling allure for those seeking a slower pace of life. Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, this charming village presents a unique blend of natural splendor and small-town charm. However, for individuals considering a move, particularly those prioritizing healthcare access, a thorough understanding of the local medical landscape is paramount. This write-up, focusing on prostate cancer care, aims to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering transportation options and healthcare facilities accessible from Cape Vincent.

The score will weigh factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and the presence of medical transportation options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the practical realities of accessing prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment for residents of Cape Vincent. This is crucial for making informed decisions, especially for those considering moving to this picturesque corner of New York.

**The Healthcare Landscape: Key Facilities**

The primary healthcare hub serving Cape Vincent is the River Hospital in Alexandria Bay, approximately a 20-minute drive. River Hospital offers primary care services, including basic screenings, and can serve as a crucial initial point of contact. For more specialized care, including urology and oncology, patients typically need to travel to larger hospitals in Watertown or Syracuse.

Watertown, about a 45-minute drive via NY-12, hosts Samaritan Medical Center. This facility offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, making it a critical destination for prostate cancer care. Syracuse, roughly a 1 hour and 45-minute drive via I-81, provides access to the advanced facilities of Upstate University Hospital and Crouse Hospital, offering specialized cancer treatment options.

**Transportation: A Critical Factor**

Transportation significantly influences healthcare access in Cape Vincent. The reliance on personal vehicles is substantial, given the rural nature of the area. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may be less readily available than in more urban settings.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary routes connecting Cape Vincent to essential healthcare facilities are well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters, can impact travel times and safety. A drive to River Hospital in Alexandria Bay typically takes around 20 minutes via NY-12E. The journey to Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, a crucial destination for specialized care, is approximately 45 minutes via NY-12.

For advanced cancer treatment, the drive to Syracuse, home to Upstate University Hospital and Crouse Hospital, is considerably longer, around 1 hour and 45 minutes via I-81. This extended travel time emphasizes the importance of planning and considering potential delays due to weather or traffic.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transit in Cape Vincent and the surrounding areas is extremely limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides some bus services within Jefferson County. However, the routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Cape Vincent or offer convenient connections to healthcare facilities.

The JCT does offer some routes to Watertown, but these may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on JCT buses, providing a crucial service for those with mobility limitations. However, the overall lack of comprehensive public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Cape Vincent and the surrounding areas. The reliance on these services for regular medical appointments is not advisable. Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available.

These services, often provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport companies, are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. Medical transport is often covered by insurance, but it’s essential to verify coverage and availability in advance.

**Prostate Cancer Score Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed, we can assess the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Cape Vincent residents.

* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive to River Hospital in Alexandria Bay provides convenient access to primary care. However, the longer drive times to Watertown and Syracuse for specialized care are a significant consideration.
* **Public Transit:** The limited public transit options present a major challenge, particularly for those without personal vehicles.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicates healthcare access.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial mitigating factor, offering an essential lifeline for those needing assistance.

**Overall Score and Recommendations**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Cape Vincent, New York (ZIP Code 13618), is moderate. While the proximity to River Hospital offers initial access, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and the limitations of public transit pose challenges.

**Recommendations for those considering moving to Cape Vincent or already residing there:**

1. **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or arrange for transportation. Consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.
2. **Establish a Healthcare Network:** Identify primary care physicians and specialists in advance. Confirm insurance coverage and appointment availability.
3. **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research and establish relationships with medical transportation providers.
4. **Plan for Long-Distance Travel:** Recognize the need for longer travel times to access specialized cancer treatment facilities in Watertown and Syracuse.
5. **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as volunteer driver programs or support groups, that may assist with transportation needs.

For those considering moving to Cape Vincent, understanding the healthcare access landscape is crucial. While the village offers a serene and appealing lifestyle, careful planning and consideration of transportation needs are essential to ensure adequate access to prostate cancer care. This "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions and proactively addressing potential healthcare challenges.