13646, Hammond, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13646, Hammond, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.18 percent of residents in 13646 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gouverneur Hospital with a distance of 13.04 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hammond, NY (ZIP Code 13646)

The decision to move, especially when facing a health concern like prostate cancer, demands careful consideration. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 13646 (Hammond, NY), examines the crucial element of healthcare access, specifically focusing on prostate cancer treatment options and the available transportation infrastructure. Understanding these factors is paramount for informed decision-making, allowing potential residents to assess the feasibility of receiving timely and effective care. This is a crucial element in the complex equation of moving to Hammond.

Hammond, nestled in St. Lawrence County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's relative remoteness, coupled with the specific demands of prostate cancer treatment, necessitates a detailed exploration of transportation options. Prostate cancer care often involves frequent appointments, including diagnostic tests, consultations, radiation therapy, and potential surgical procedures. Therefore, the ability to navigate the local and regional transportation networks becomes a critical determinant of the quality of life.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Hammond is the personal vehicle. The major roadways impacting healthcare access are State Route 37, State Route 12, and County Route 6. Driving times to healthcare facilities offering prostate cancer treatment vary significantly depending on the destination and the specific location within the ZIP code. Accessing specialized care necessitates understanding these travel times, especially during inclement weather common in the region.

For example, the drive to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, approximately 20 miles away, would typically take around 30 minutes via State Route 37. This time can fluctuate considerably due to traffic, weather conditions, and the driver's location within Hammond. Traveling to larger medical centers in Syracuse, roughly 150 miles away, could involve a drive time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, primarily utilizing Interstate 81. This longer journey necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential fatigue.

Public transportation options in Hammond are limited. St. Lawrence County Public Transit provides some services, but routes and schedules may be infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the accessibility of the specific routes and vehicles is essential for those requiring these accommodations.

Examining the specific routes and schedules offered by St. Lawrence County Public Transit is vital. Inquiries should be made regarding the frequency of service, the availability of routes connecting Hammond to major medical centers, and the presence of ADA-compliant vehicles. This information is crucial for individuals who rely on public transportation for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in the Hammond area. Their presence and reliability should be verified before relying on them for transportation to healthcare appointments. The cost and availability of these services can vary significantly depending on demand and the time of day.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may be available in the region. These services often cater to individuals with specific medical needs or mobility limitations. Researching the availability of medical transportation providers in the area is crucial.

The availability of these services and their ability to accommodate the specific needs of prostate cancer patients should be investigated. This includes confirming the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles, the ability to transport medical equipment, and the willingness to transport patients to and from radiation therapy appointments.

The distance to specialized prostate cancer treatment centers is another critical factor. While Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center offers some services, more advanced treatments, such as robotic-assisted surgery or specialized radiation therapy, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers in Syracuse or other regional hubs. The availability of these services within a reasonable driving distance is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access.

The quality of healthcare access is not solely determined by the availability of transportation. The presence of qualified medical professionals, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the overall quality of care are equally important. Researching the medical staff, the available technologies, and the patient satisfaction ratings of the local healthcare facilities is essential.

The patient's individual needs and preferences must be considered. Some patients may prefer to receive care closer to home, even if it means limited treatment options. Others may prioritize access to the most advanced technologies and specialized expertise, even if it requires longer travel times.

The financial implications of healthcare access should also be considered. Transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees, can add up quickly. The availability of insurance coverage for transportation services and the potential for financial assistance programs should be investigated.

The decision to move to Hammond, NY, with a prostate cancer diagnosis requires a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This analysis has provided a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape and the available healthcare resources. Further research, including direct contact with healthcare providers, transportation services, and local authorities, is essential to make an informed decision.

This evaluation highlights the importance of proactively planning for healthcare needs. The challenges of transportation and the potential distances to specialized care centers should be carefully considered. The goal is to ensure that individuals can access the necessary treatment and support services in a timely and convenient manner. Moving to Hammond should be a positive experience, and a thorough understanding of the healthcare landscape is essential to achieve this.