12943, Keene Valley, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 12943, Keene Valley, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.41 percent of residents in 12943 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12943

Considering a move to the serene embrace of Keene Valley, New York (ZIP code 12943)? This assessment delves into the intricacies of healthcare access for individuals navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on transportation options. The ability to reach medical appointments reliably and safely is paramount for those with cognitive decline. This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score, a qualitative assessment of the ease and practicality of accessing healthcare from this location.

Keene Valley, nestled within the Adirondack Park, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The rugged terrain and sparse population influence the availability and accessibility of healthcare options. The primary determinant of the Alzheimer's Score is the efficiency of transportation, encompassing drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Keene Valley is via the scenic **NY-73**. This winding road, while beautiful, can present challenges during inclement weather, particularly in winter. The drive to the nearest hospital, Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, is approximately a 45-minute journey under ideal conditions. This drive time increases significantly with snow, ice, or heavy traffic, potentially exceeding an hour. The **NY-73** is generally well-maintained, but the mountainous terrain necessitates careful driving, especially for individuals with impaired cognitive function.

Further afield, the larger healthcare facilities in Plattsburgh, such as the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, are accessible via **NY-73** to **I-87 (the Northway)**. This adds significant travel time, potentially exceeding two hours. The Northway is a major highway, but the distance and potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel times, can be exhausting for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Drive times to specialized clinics in Burlington, Vermont, or Albany, New York, require further planning, often necessitating a multi-hour journey. This underscores the importance of local healthcare options and the need for readily available transportation alternatives.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Keene Valley are limited. The primary provider is the **Essex County Public Transportation**. Route availability and frequency should be confirmed with the county. This service may offer limited routes connecting Keene Valley to neighboring towns and potentially to healthcare facilities. However, schedules are often infrequent, and routes may not directly serve medical centers.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. Confirming the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses, ramps, and other accommodations is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. Furthermore, the ability to navigate the public transit system, including understanding schedules and routes, can be a significant challenge for those with Alzheimer's. The reliance on public transit necessitates careful planning, including arranging for assistance at bus stops and ensuring someone accompanies the individual to appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in some areas, but their presence in Keene Valley is sporadic. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more reliable option. Several companies specialize in transporting individuals to medical appointments, providing door-to-door service with trained drivers. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids and can provide assistance with getting in and out of vehicles.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Adirondack Medical Transport:** This local provider offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** While primarily an emergency service, AMR may offer non-emergency transport in some areas.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Contacting the local ambulance service can provide information about non-emergency transport options.

The cost of medical transport can vary considerably, depending on the distance, the type of service, and the specific needs of the individual.

**Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Keene Valley (12943) is **Moderate**. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing necessitate careful planning and potentially significant travel times.

**Recommendations for individuals considering a move to Keene Valley with Alzheimer's:**

* **Assess Driving Ability:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and independently. Consider the challenges of navigating winding roads and adverse weather conditions.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Establish relationships with reliable providers before moving.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Consider the proximity of healthcare facilities when choosing a residence. Prioritize locations closer to medical centers.
* **Caregiver Support:** Ensure the availability of a caregiver or support network who can assist with transportation and accompany the individual to appointments.
* **Local Healthcare Options:** Explore the availability of local healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and home healthcare options.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for emergency situations, including access to emergency medical services and transportation.

Moving to Keene Valley presents a unique set of considerations for individuals with Alzheimer's. While the area offers natural beauty and a tranquil lifestyle, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access require careful planning and proactive measures. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a starting point for evaluating the suitability of the location, and the recommendations provide guidance for ensuring access to essential healthcare services. The focus on **transportation** and **healthcare access** is critical when making the decision about **moving to Keene Valley** for those with Alzheimer's.