13636, Ellisburg, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 13636, Ellisburg, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.26 percent of residents in 13636 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 19.17 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13636

The decision to move to a new location, particularly when navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. This assessment, tailored for ZIP code 13636 (Ellisburg, New York), offers a comprehensive overview of transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors in determining the suitability of a location for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers. We'll explore the practical realities of getting to medical appointments, a critical component of maintaining quality of life and managing the disease.

Ellisburg, nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique landscape. Its rural character influences transportation options, requiring a nuanced understanding of available resources. The ability to access healthcare is paramount, and this analysis seeks to illuminate the pathways, both literal and figurative, to medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery through Ellisburg is Route 3, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling west on Route 3 leads to Watertown, the county seat, where the Samaritan Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, is located. The drive to Watertown typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage, particularly for frequent appointments or in emergencies.

Other important roadways include County Route 75, which provides north-south access, and various local roads that weave through the rural landscape. These roads, while offering scenic routes, can be prone to snow and ice during the winter months, potentially impacting travel times and safety. Careful consideration of seasonal driving conditions is vital.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Ellisburg are limited. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve the needs of the broader county population, not necessarily those in Ellisburg. The availability of regular routes directly serving Ellisburg is uncertain, and the frequency of service may be limited.

The JCTS buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on public transit necessitates careful planning, including understanding route schedules, potential delays, and the need for transfers. The convenience of door-to-door service, especially for those with mobility challenges, may be lacking.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Ellisburg itself is less certain. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires advance planning and the potential for delays.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by private companies, are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. They typically offer door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and a level of comfort and care that can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Several medical transportation providers serve the Watertown area, including, but not limited to, local ambulance services and private transportation companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport. Researching these providers and understanding their services, costs, and availability is crucial.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The proximity to Samaritan Medical Center is a significant asset for residents of Ellisburg. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including specialized care for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Access to specialists, diagnostic testing, and emergency care is readily available.

Beyond the hospital, the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services within the Watertown area is essential. Consider the location of doctors' offices, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of home healthcare services.

**Moving to Ellisburg with Alzheimer's: A Holistic Approach:**

Choosing to move to Ellisburg requires a comprehensive assessment of the individual's needs and capabilities. The relative ease of access to healthcare, primarily through driving, is a positive factor. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing necessitate careful consideration.

Caregivers must be prepared to provide transportation, or to arrange for medical transportation services. The availability of support services, such as home healthcare, adult day care, and respite care, is crucial for maintaining the individual's quality of life and supporting the caregiver.

**The Alzheimer's Score:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Ellisburg (ZIP code 13636) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Samaritan Medical Center, with its comprehensive healthcare services, is a major advantage. The relatively short drive times to Watertown are also positive. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential uncertainties of ride-sharing represent challenges.

The score also considers the importance of caregiver support, the availability of home healthcare, and the overall accessibility of the community.

**Recommendations:**

For individuals with Alzheimer's considering a move to Ellisburg, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Prioritize access to a reliable vehicle and the ability to drive, or make arrangements for medical transportation.

Research the availability of medical transportation services in the area, and understand their costs and services. Explore the availability of home healthcare, adult day care, and respite care to support the caregiver.

Engage with local healthcare providers to understand the availability of specialized care for Alzheimer's disease. Consider the location of doctors' offices and the ease of scheduling appointments.

By carefully weighing these factors, individuals and their caregivers can make an informed decision about the suitability of Ellisburg as a place to live and receive care. The Alzheimer's Score is not a definitive judgment, but a framework for informed decision-making, ensuring that the move aligns with the individual's needs and promotes their well-being.