13638, Felts Mills, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 13638, Felts Mills, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.74 percent of residents in 13638 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.50 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13638

Zip code 13638, Felts Mills, New York, presents a unique landscape for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. The disease, characterized by progressive cognitive decline, necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, especially concerning transportation. This write-up provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the transportation infrastructure and options available for residents seeking medical care within and around Felts Mills. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those affected by Alzheimer's, considering their specific needs and limitations.

The primary concern for individuals with Alzheimer's is the ability to maintain independence while accessing essential healthcare services. This often hinges on the availability and accessibility of transportation. For residents of 13638, the vast, rural geography of the area presents significant challenges. The "Alzheimer's Score" in this context will focus on the reliability, convenience, and suitability of various transportation options.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

Felts Mills is situated in Jefferson County, New York, a region characterized by its rural character and limited public transportation. The primary means of transportation is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest major medical center is Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via NY-3 and NY-12. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to inclement weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can significantly impact driving times and safety, making travel challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments. The NY-3 and NY-12 corridors also experience varying traffic volumes, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and day of the week.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are located within Watertown, increasing the potential for shorter drive times. However, these facilities may not offer the comprehensive services available at a larger hospital. The condition of secondary roads, such as County Route 75 and County Route 68, which provide access to Felts Mills from surrounding areas, should also be considered. These roads are often less well-maintained and can be more difficult to navigate, especially for individuals with impaired vision or cognitive function.

**Public Transit: Sparse and Limited:**

Public transportation options in 13638 are extremely limited. The Jefferson County Public Transit (JCPT) system operates within the county, but its service area and frequency are restricted. JCPT primarily serves the city of Watertown and surrounding areas. Service to Felts Mills is infrequent and may not be readily available for those needing immediate medical attention. The JCPT website states that ADA-accessible vehicles are available, providing a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules may make public transit an impractical option for many residents of Felts Mills, especially those with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Watertown and the surrounding areas. However, their availability in Felts Mills itself can be unpredictable. The lack of consistent coverage and the potential for longer wait times can present significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's who require prompt and reliable transportation. Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs and location.

**Healthcare Access and the Alzheimer's Score:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation in 13638 reflects the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's. The score would be negatively impacted by the following factors:

* **Limited public transportation:** Infrequent routes and limited service area restrict access.
* **Long drive times:** Dependence on personal vehicles and potential weather-related delays.
* **Unreliable ride-sharing:** Inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Cost of medical transportation:** Financial constraints of medical transportation services.
* **Rural geography:** Distance to healthcare facilities and limited local resources.

Conversely, the score would be positively influenced by:

* **ADA-accessible public transit:** Availability of accessible vehicles for those with mobility limitations.
* **Proximity to Watertown:** The relatively close proximity to a major medical center.
* **Availability of medical transportation:** The existence of medical transportation services.

**Moving to Felts Mills and Healthcare Considerations:**

For families considering a move to Felts Mills with a loved one affected by Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. Before making a decision, families should carefully evaluate the following:

* **Driving capabilities:** Assess the individual's ability to drive safely and independently.
* **Access to healthcare:** Ensure access to a comprehensive range of medical services.
* **Transportation alternatives:** Identify and evaluate the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Support network:** Determine the availability of family members, friends, or caregivers who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Develop a plan for emergencies, including access to medical care.

**Conclusion:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation in 13638 highlights the need for careful planning and consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's. The rural environment presents significant challenges, particularly regarding access to healthcare. While some options exist, such as medical transportation and the proximity to Watertown, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services require proactive strategies. Families and individuals should carefully assess their transportation needs and develop comprehensive plans to ensure safe and reliable access to healthcare. This includes exploring all available resources, building a strong support network, and being prepared for potential challenges. The goal is to enable individuals with Alzheimer's to maintain their independence and quality of life while receiving the necessary medical care in the Felts Mills community.