13807, Milford, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13807, Milford, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.42 percent of residents in 13807 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bassett Healthcare with a distance of 6.54 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13807 (Milford, NY)

The shadow of a prostate cancer diagnosis hangs heavy, and the ability to access timely and effective healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis, tailored for residents of ZIP Code 13807 (Milford, NY), delves into the crucial factor of transportation. It examines the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We'll assess the commute, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. This information provides a vital “Prostate Cancer Score” reflecting the accessibility of healthcare within this rural community.

Milford, nestled in the heart of Otsego County, offers a picturesque landscape but presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The town's relative isolation necessitates a careful consideration of transportation options. The ability to swiftly reach a specialist, undergo diagnostic imaging, or receive radiation therapy can significantly impact a patient's prognosis and overall well-being. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape within and around Milford, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The primary method of transportation in Milford is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Driving times to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers are critical determinants of healthcare access. The closest major medical facility is Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive. This journey typically involves traveling along **NY-28 South**, a well-maintained two-lane highway. Traffic is generally light, making for a relatively predictable commute. However, winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling or tripling the journey duration due to snow and ice.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. The Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia or Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo are also options. These trips, however, necessitate significantly longer drives, often exceeding three hours. These extended travel times underscore the importance of early detection and prompt treatment at closer facilities. These longer journeys, primarily via **I-88 East** or **I-88 West** and connecting highways, place a greater burden on patients and their families, especially during periods of treatment.

Public transportation options in Milford are limited. The Otsego County Public Transportation (OCPT) provides some services, but their routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to medical appointments. The OCPT does offer a demand-response service, requiring advance booking, but it is not guaranteed to reach all medical facilities or accommodate the specific needs of cancer patients. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is also a major concern, with limited ADA-compliant features on available routes.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Milford. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can also make these services cost-prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available ride-sharing options presents a significant challenge for those who cannot drive themselves or rely on family members for transportation.

Medical transport services are another potential option. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services in Milford and the surrounding areas needs investigation. However, these services often provide a more reliable and accessible means of transportation than ride-sharing or public transit for individuals with mobility limitations.

The “Prostate Cancer Score” for ZIP Code 13807 is therefore influenced by the following factors: the relatively short drive to Bassett Medical Center, the limited public transportation options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential expense of medical transport. The reliance on personal vehicles and the challenges posed by weather conditions contribute to a moderate score. The rural nature of the community necessitates careful planning and proactive arrangements for healthcare transportation.

For those considering moving to Milford, healthcare access should be a crucial consideration. Prospective residents should research the availability of transportation options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the potential for support from family and friends. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is essential. The need for reliable personal transportation or the ability to access medical transport services is paramount.

The Prostate Cancer Score for Milford is not simply a number; it’s a reflection of the community's ability to support its residents in their healthcare journeys. While the drive to Bassett Medical Center is relatively short, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing prostate cancer. Residents of Milford must proactively address transportation concerns to ensure timely access to the care they need. This includes exploring all available options, from carpooling with neighbors to investigating medical transport services.

The future of healthcare access in Milford may involve initiatives to improve public transit, such as expanding the OCPT's routes or increasing the frequency of service. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Telemedicine, while not a substitute for in-person care, can reduce the need for travel for some appointments and consultations.

In conclusion, while Milford offers a beautiful and peaceful environment, its rural location presents challenges regarding healthcare access, particularly for those facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The “Prostate Cancer Score” is a call to action, urging residents to proactively address transportation concerns and advocating for improvements in healthcare access within the community. Understanding the limitations and exploring all available options is critical to ensuring that all residents of ZIP Code 13807 can receive the timely and effective care they deserve.