13903, Binghamton, New York Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 13903, Binghamton, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.88 percent of residents in 13903 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Health Services Hospitals, Inc with a distance of 0.89 miles from the area.

**Prostate Cancer Score: ZIP Code 13903 – A Transportation and Healthcare Access Analysis**

Considering a move to Binghamton, New York, specifically ZIP code 13903? This analysis delves into the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access, focusing on prostate cancer care. Understanding the ease of navigating the healthcare landscape, especially for specialized needs, is paramount when making such a significant life decision. This report evaluates the options for patients in 13903 seeking prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, providing a "Prostate Cancer Score" based on transportation infrastructure and healthcare availability.

The geographical heart of this analysis lies in Binghamton, a city nestled in the Southern Tier of New York State. The 13903 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of the city, including residential areas, commercial districts, and access points to major transportation arteries. The success of prostate cancer treatment often hinges on timely access to specialists, diagnostic tools, and treatment facilities. This score will assess the feasibility of this access within the context of the available transportation options.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Automotive Advantage**

For residents of 13903, the automobile remains a primary mode of transportation. Several key roadways facilitate access to healthcare facilities. Interstate 81 (I-81) serves as a major north-south artery, providing relatively quick access to healthcare providers located in Binghamton and beyond. The drive time to UHS Wilson Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, is generally under 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

State Route 17 (also known as the Southern Tier Expressway) offers an east-west connection, providing access to hospitals and specialist clinics. Navigating the local road network, including Court Street and Main Street, is crucial for reaching specific medical offices. Drive times within Binghamton are typically manageable, but peak-hour traffic can extend these times, particularly near downtown areas and major intersections. The availability of ample parking at medical facilities is another factor to consider.

For residents seeking specialized care outside of Binghamton, drive times increase. Syracuse, with its comprehensive medical centers, is approximately a 1.5-hour drive north via I-81. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for frequent appointments. Similar considerations apply to travel south toward Scranton, Pennsylvania, which is also accessible via I-81.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City on Wheels**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) system provides public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. Several bus routes serve the 13903 ZIP code, offering a potentially affordable alternative to driving. However, the frequency of bus service and the routes' coverage are crucial considerations for healthcare access.

Route 7, for example, often provides access to downtown Binghamton, where several medical offices and clinics are located. Route 12 may serve areas closer to UHS Wilson Medical Center. The BCT system is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, with accessible buses equipped with ramps and other features. However, the limitations of public transit, such as fixed routes and schedules, can pose challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring urgent care.

Commuting to healthcare via public transit necessitates careful planning. Checking bus schedules, accounting for potential delays, and considering the walking distance between bus stops and medical facilities are essential. For patients undergoing treatment, the physical toll of public transit, including waiting times and transfers, needs careful evaluation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a flexible transportation option in Binghamton. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive. The availability of ride-sharing services is generally reliable, although surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand is a factor to consider.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another valuable resource. These services, like CareRide and others, often provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Medical transport services are particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment that may impair their ability to drive or use public transit.

**Healthcare Access in Binghamton: A Landscape of Options**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 13903 ZIP code include UHS Wilson Medical Center and Lourdes Hospital. Both hospitals offer comprehensive medical services, including urology departments and cancer care centers. These facilities provide diagnostic testing, treatment options (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy), and supportive care for prostate cancer patients.

Numerous private practices and specialist clinics in Binghamton also offer urological services and prostate cancer care. These clinics often provide a more personalized approach to care and may offer specialized treatments. Accessing these clinics may involve navigating the local road network or utilizing public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.

The availability of specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technology (MRI, PET scans) and radiation therapy equipment, is crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these resources to the 13903 ZIP code is a significant factor in assessing healthcare access.

**Prostate Cancer Score: A Summary and Assessment**

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP code 13903 is a composite assessment, reflecting the transportation options available and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. Based on the factors discussed above, the score is considered "Good."

* **Roadways:** The well-maintained road network, including I-81 and Route 17, provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities within Binghamton and the surrounding region.
* **Public Transit:** The BCT system offers a viable, albeit less convenient, transportation option, particularly for residents without access to a car.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional flexibility and support for patients.
* **Healthcare Facilities:** The presence of major hospitals (UHS Wilson Medical Center, Lourdes Hospital) and numerous specialist clinics within Binghamton ensures a reasonable level of healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Residents**

For individuals considering moving to 13903 or currently residing there, several recommendations can improve healthcare access:

* **Familiarize yourself with the local road network and traffic patterns.**
* **Explore the BCT bus routes and schedules, particularly those serving medical facilities.**
* **Research ride-sharing and medical transport options.**
* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician and a urologist.**
* **Inquire about the availability of specialized prostate cancer care services, including advanced imaging and treatment options.**

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Binghamton and residing in the 13903 ZIP code offers a relatively favorable environment for healthcare access, particularly for prostate cancer patients. The combination of a well-developed road network, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and the presence of major healthcare providers creates a landscape where healthcare access is generally achievable. However, individuals should proactively plan their transportation strategies and familiarize themselves with the healthcare options available to ensure a smooth and effective healthcare journey. This "Prostate Cancer Score" provides a valuable starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this region.