The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 12916, Brushton, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
81.45 percent of residents in 12916 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 12916, Brushton, New York
Alzheimers Score | 14 |
---|---|
People Score | 62 |
Provider Score | 20 |
Hospital Score | 24 |
Travel Score | 24 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 12916 | Brushton | New York |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.45 | 0.45 | 21.71 |
1 Car | 15.61 | 15.61 | 26.03 |
2 Cars | 43.55 | 43.55 | 30.36 |
3 or More Cars | 40.38 | 40.38 | 21.89 |
Vehicular Access in 12916, Brushton, New York
**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12916 (Brushton, NY)**
The journey to healthcare access for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease in Brushton, New York (ZIP Code 12916), presents a complex tapestry woven with challenges. This rural community, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, faces hurdles in transportation, a crucial element in ensuring timely medical care. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare facilities, considering the available transportation options and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments. We'll delve into the practicalities of navigating the roads, public transit, and alternative transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of the realities faced by residents dealing with this devastating illness.
The primary concern is the drive time to essential medical services. The nearest hospital, Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, NY, sits approximately 20 miles east of Brushton. The drive, typically taking around 30 minutes under optimal conditions, becomes a significant undertaking for someone with Alzheimer's. The route mainly involves navigating Route 11, a major thoroughfare, and then turning onto County Route 20. The mental strain of remembering directions, managing traffic, and processing the visual stimuli along the road can be overwhelming for those with cognitive decline.
For those unable to drive, the reliance on others for transportation increases the complexity. Family members, friends, or caregivers often shoulder the responsibility, adding to their already heavy burdens. This dependence can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and a decline in overall well-being for the individual with Alzheimer's. The unpredictable nature of the disease, including moments of confusion or disorientation, further complicates the process, making the simple act of getting to a doctor's appointment a major challenge.
Public transportation options in Brushton are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit (SLCPT) operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking and potentially lengthy wait times. While SLCPT strives to provide accessible transportation, including ADA-compliant vehicles, the limited service area and the need for pre-planning can be difficult for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The uncertainty of scheduling and the potential for delays can cause significant stress and anxiety, hindering healthcare access.
The absence of readily available public transit options highlights the critical need for alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in this rural area, leaving residents with fewer choices. The lack of these services further exacerbates the transportation challenges, particularly for those who are unable to drive or lack access to family or friends who can provide rides. This lack of readily available options creates a significant barrier to healthcare access.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, are another consideration. While these services exist, their availability and cost-effectiveness in Brushton require further investigation. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with limited incomes, adding another layer of complexity to the already difficult situation. The process of arranging and coordinating these services can also be challenging, requiring advanced planning and coordination.
The physical and cognitive demands of a medical journey can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer's. The drive itself, even a relatively short one, can be disorienting. The waiting room environment, with its noise, crowds, and unfamiliar surroundings, can trigger anxiety and confusion. The need to remember and communicate medical information, coupled with the potential for communication difficulties, further complicates the process. The entire experience can be a source of significant stress for both the individual and their caregivers.
The suitability of Brushton for individuals with Alzheimer's, particularly concerning healthcare access, is thus a mixed bag. While the community may offer a sense of peace and tranquility, the transportation challenges present a significant hurdle. The lack of readily available public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential cost and logistical complexities of medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score on the healthcare access index.
The journey to healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in Brushton is a complex one, requiring careful consideration of the available transportation options and their suitability. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with medical transportation services all highlight the need for a comprehensive approach. The community must strive to improve healthcare access by exploring innovative solutions, such as expanding public transportation options, supporting medical transportation services, and promoting caregiver support programs.
The challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's in Brushton are not unique. Rural communities across the country grapple with similar issues. The lack of readily available transportation options, coupled with the cognitive and physical limitations of the disease, creates a significant barrier to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies.
The availability of specialized care for Alzheimer's patients within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. The need for specialized memory care units, geriatric specialists, and support groups is paramount. The absence of these resources in close proximity to Brushton necessitates longer travel times, further compounding the transportation challenges. The need for specialized care is a critical component of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's.
The impact of transportation challenges on the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is significant. Missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress levels can lead to a decline in both physical and cognitive health. The isolation that can result from limited transportation options further exacerbates the situation, leading to social isolation and a reduced quality of life. The importance of addressing these transportation challenges cannot be overstated.
Moving to Brushton, while potentially offering a peaceful environment, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers must proactively assess the available transportation options and plan for potential challenges. The need for a reliable transportation plan is crucial to ensure timely access to medical care.
In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Brushton, NY (ZIP Code 12916) is significantly impacted by transportation limitations. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with medical transportation services all contribute to a lower score. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including expanding public transportation options, supporting medical transportation services, and promoting caregiver support programs. The ability to navigate the roads, public transit, and alternative transport services is crucial for ensuring timely medical care for individuals with Alzheimer's in Brushton.
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