13637, Evans Mills, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13637, Evans Mills, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.84 percent of residents in 13637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Evans Mills, NY (ZIP Code 13637)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is monumental. For individuals contemplating a move to Evans Mills, New York (ZIP Code 13637), and concerned about prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, understanding the local transportation landscape is crucial. This analysis provides a "Prostate Cancer Score," a subjective assessment of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit, and ride-share options, all vital components of a comprehensive healthcare strategy.

Evans Mills, a charming community in Jefferson County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger towns. However, the availability of specialized healthcare services, including those for prostate cancer, can be a significant factor in a move. This score considers the journey to potential treatment centers, factoring in the practicality of various transportation options.

**The Score's Foundation: Accessibility and Transportation**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" isn't a numerical value but a narrative evaluation. It weighs the ease of getting to medical appointments, the reliability of transportation, and the overall convenience for patients. This is particularly important for individuals undergoing treatment, which can involve frequent visits, potentially impacting their quality of life. The score’s foundation rests on the understanding that healthcare access is inextricably linked to transportation.

**Driving the Healthcare Route: Navigating the Roads**

For residents of Evans Mills, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The journey to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the region's roads. The closest major medical center, Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via NY-37. This route is generally well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth commute.

However, depending on the specific specialist or treatment required, patients might need to travel further. Syracuse, approximately 80 miles south, offers more specialized care options, including those for prostate cancer. The drive to Syracuse involves utilizing I-81 South, a journey that can take between 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The Adirondack Northway (I-87) is another option, but it is further east and not a direct route. Weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Upstate New York winters, can significantly impact drive times and road safety. Therefore, residents must factor in the potential for delays when planning appointments and considering the reliability of personal transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Evans Mills are limited. Jefferson County operates a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed for convenient access to specialized healthcare services. While the system might offer some routes to Watertown, the schedules may not align with medical appointments, and direct routes to Syracuse are unavailable.

For individuals with mobility limitations, ADA-compliant features on buses are essential. It is crucial to confirm the availability and reliability of these features when planning transportation. Public transit, while potentially affordable, may not be a practical or timely solution for many prostate cancer patients requiring frequent appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their availability in Evans Mills can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments might not be feasible due to potential delays, limited availability, and higher costs compared to personal transportation.

Medical transportation services, like those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer an alternative. These services cater specifically to patients with medical needs, providing door-to-door transportation and assistance. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements, making them suitable for scheduled appointments but less convenient for urgent needs.

**Considering the "Prostate Cancer Score" for Evans Mills**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Evans Mills, considering the available transportation options, is moderate. While the proximity to Watertown offers relatively easy access to basic medical care, the limited public transit and ride-sharing options, coupled with the need to travel to Syracuse for specialized prostate cancer treatment, present challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for travel delays due to weather are significant considerations. Patients contemplating a move to Evans Mills must factor in the time, cost, and potential stress associated with transportation when assessing their healthcare access.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is influenced by several factors:

* **Proximity to specialized care:** The distance to comprehensive prostate cancer treatment centers, such as those in Syracuse, significantly impacts the score.
* **Reliability of transportation:** The dependability of personal vehicles, public transit, and ride-sharing services plays a crucial role.
* **Accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is essential for patients with physical challenges.
* **Cost of transportation:** The financial burden associated with travel, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport costs, affects the overall score.
* **Weather conditions:** The impact of harsh winters on road safety and travel times is a significant consideration in Upstate New York.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals considering a move to Evans Mills and concerned about prostate cancer treatment should:

* **Assess their transportation needs:** Evaluate their ability to drive, the reliability of their vehicle, and the availability of backup transportation options.
* **Research local healthcare providers:** Identify the closest urologists, oncologists, and treatment centers and determine their transportation requirements.
* **Explore medical transportation options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area.
* **Consider the impact of weather:** Plan for potential travel delays due to winter weather conditions.
* **Factor in the cost of transportation:** Budget for travel expenses, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport costs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to a new community is a complex decision, and healthcare access is a critical factor. For individuals considering Evans Mills and concerned about prostate cancer, understanding the local transportation landscape is essential. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit and the need to travel to Syracuse for specialized care require careful consideration. By carefully assessing their transportation needs, researching local healthcare providers, and planning for potential challenges, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Evans Mills is the right place for them. The "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a guide, encouraging individuals to prioritize healthcare access and transportation when evaluating a potential relocation.