13672, Parishville, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13672, Parishville, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.92 percent of residents in 13672 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 13.55 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parishville, NY (ZIP Code 13672)

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be a life-altering event, demanding prompt and consistent healthcare. For residents of Parishville, New York (ZIP Code 13672), the ability to access specialized medical care is a critical factor in their overall well-being. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape and healthcare access in the area, providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" to help assess the ease with which residents can receive necessary treatment and support. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Parishville, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. In Parishville, a rural community, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The closest comprehensive cancer care is located in Potsdam, approximately 20 miles away. The journey to Potsdam, the primary healthcare hub for the area, typically involves traveling along **State Route 190** and then **State Route 56**. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive can be completed in about 30 minutes. However, winter weather, common in upstate New York, can significantly impact drive times, potentially doubling or tripling the travel duration due to snow and ice.

Other options for prostate cancer care might involve traveling to larger cities like Watertown or Syracuse. These trips, however, would be considerably longer. Watertown, home to Samaritan Medical Center, is roughly 70 miles away, necessitating a drive of about an hour and a half, primarily utilizing **State Route 56** and **Interstate 81**. Syracuse, with its numerous specialized cancer centers, is approximately 140 miles away, a drive of over two hours, primarily on **State Route 56** and **Interstate 81**. These longer travel times can pose significant challenges, especially for individuals undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or require frequent appointments.

Public transportation options in Parishville are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system, while offering some services, does not have regular routes that directly serve the needs of cancer patients traveling to Potsdam or other distant medical centers. The current system primarily focuses on providing transportation within the county, rather than facilitating long-distance commutes. ADA-accessible vehicles are available within the county system, but the infrequent service and the need for advance booking make it a less-than-ideal solution for regular medical appointments. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Parishville. This further restricts transportation options, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This lack of ride-share options compounds the transportation challenges faced by individuals requiring regular medical care, making it more difficult to attend appointments, access treatment, and receive support.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, are an option, though their availability and cost vary. Companies like Rural Health Transportation, while serving the broader region, may have limited capacity and require advance booking. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, adding a significant financial burden to patients already dealing with the expenses of cancer treatment. The availability of these services can fluctuate, and it is essential to investigate their coverage and accessibility well in advance of needing them.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Parishville, NY (ZIP Code 13672) reflects the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking prostate cancer care. The score considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-share accessibility, and medical transport options. Due to the dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the absence of ride-sharing services, the score is moderately low.

The score is not meant to discourage individuals from moving to Parishville. Instead, it is intended to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and considerations associated with healthcare access. Those contemplating a move should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and plan accordingly. This may involve maintaining a personal vehicle, exploring medical transport options, or relying on the support of family and friends.

For those considering moving to Parishville, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. Researching local medical facilities, understanding insurance coverage, and establishing a transportation plan are crucial steps. Contacting the St. Lawrence County Public Transit to inquire about any potential future expansions or changes in service is also recommended.

The Parishville community is known for its close-knit nature and supportive environment. However, the geographical isolation and limited transportation options present challenges for residents requiring specialized medical care. While the drive to Potsdam is manageable under normal conditions, the lack of alternative transportation options and the potential for weather-related delays necessitate careful planning and preparation.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" serves as a tool to inform decision-making and promote proactive healthcare planning. It highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, particularly for those facing the challenges of prostate cancer. By recognizing these factors, residents and prospective residents can make informed choices and ensure they have the support they need to navigate their healthcare journey effectively.