13691, Theresa, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13691, Theresa, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.94 percent of residents in 13691 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 10.19 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Theresa, NY (ZIP Code 13691)

The sun-drenched landscape of Theresa, New York, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, offers a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. But beneath the idyllic veneer lies a critical consideration for any prospective resident, especially those approaching or exceeding the age of 50: **healthcare access**, specifically for the timely diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. This write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** options within and beyond ZIP code 13691, providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" to help you assess the ease of reaching vital medical services.

The score is not a definitive medical assessment. It’s a practical guide, reflecting the practical challenges of getting to appointments, especially when time is of the essence. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a realistic picture of what it means to navigate the healthcare landscape in this charming, yet geographically isolated, corner of New York. This is crucial information for anyone **moving to Theresa**, considering the potential impact on their health and well-being.

**The Prostate Cancer Score Framework**

Our score considers several factors: proximity to urologists and cancer specialists, drive times, public transportation reliability, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options. Each factor is weighted based on its impact on timely access to care. The final score will be a composite, reflecting the overall ease or difficulty of accessing prostate cancer-related healthcare in ZIP code 13691.

**Driving Distances and Roadways**

Theresa, NY, is a rural community. The primary mode of **transportation** is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The nearest hospitals with urology departments are in Watertown, approximately 20 miles away. The drive, predominantly along NY-37 and NY-26, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice are common, potentially adding considerable delays, and even making travel hazardous. The drive to Syracuse, where more specialized cancer centers are located, is roughly 80 miles, predominantly via I-81. This journey can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a significant time commitment for routine check-ups and treatments.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Theresa are limited. The Jefferson County Public Transit (JCPT) provides some services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily serving the Watertown area. The current routes do not directly serve the medical facilities with urology departments.

ADA-accessible vehicles are available, but advance booking is required. This severely limits the spontaneity of appointments. Relying solely on public **transportation** for prostate cancer care would be exceptionally challenging, requiring careful planning and potentially significant waiting times.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Theresa. This further restricts **transportation** options, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The lack of these services leaves a considerable gap in the **transportation** infrastructure.

Medical **transportation** services are available, but they can be costly and may require pre-authorization. These services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are primarily designed for those who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. They are often booked in advance and may not be suitable for urgent appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Closer Look**

The primary healthcare providers in Theresa are general practitioners. While these doctors can provide initial screenings and referrals, specialized care for prostate cancer requires access to urologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists.

The nearest urologists are located in Watertown, making it a necessary destination for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Cancer treatment centers, including radiation therapy, are primarily found in Watertown and Syracuse. The drive times, coupled with the limited **transportation** options, can create significant challenges for patients undergoing treatment.

**The Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP Code 13691**

Based on the above analysis, the Prostate Cancer Score for ZIP code 13691 is moderately low. The score reflects the challenges related to **transportation**, limited access to specialists, and the potential for delays due to weather or lack of **transportation** alternatives.

**Scoring Breakdown:**

* **Proximity to Specialists:** Moderate. Watertown offers urologists, but more specialized care requires travel to Syracuse.
* **Drive Times:** Moderate. Watertown is accessible within a reasonable timeframe, but Syracuse requires a longer journey.
* **Public Transportation:** Very Low. Limited routes and infrequent schedules.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Very Low. No readily available services.
* **Medical Transport:** Moderate. Available but potentially costly and requiring advance booking.

**Overall Score: 4/10**

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For those **moving to Theresa** or already residing in the area, proactive planning is essential. Consider the following:

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician** in Theresa and ensure they are aware of your medical history and any potential risk factors for prostate cancer.
* **Familiarize yourself with the healthcare facilities** in Watertown and Syracuse, including their urology departments and cancer centers.
* **Assess your **transportation** options**. Do you have a reliable vehicle? Are you comfortable driving in all weather conditions?
* **Explore medical **transportation** options** and understand their costs and procedures.
* **Plan for appointments in advance**, accounting for travel time and potential delays.
* **Advocate for improved public **transportation** services** in the area, particularly for medical appointments.

Living in Theresa offers a unique lifestyle, but it's crucial to acknowledge the limitations in healthcare **access**. By understanding the challenges and planning accordingly, residents can mitigate the impact on their health and well-being, ensuring timely access to critical prostate cancer care. This knowledge is essential for anyone considering **moving to Theresa**, allowing for informed decisions about their healthcare needs and **transportation** requirements.