13672, Parishville, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 13672, Parishville, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.92 percent of residents in 13672 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Canton-Potsdam Hospital with a distance of 13.55 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Parishville, NY (ZIP Code 13672)

Choosing a new home, especially when navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape of Parishville, New York (ZIP Code 13672), offering a glimpse into **healthcare access** and the challenges and opportunities it presents for individuals and families considering **moving to Parishville**. We'll examine the practicalities of getting to appointments, the availability of support services, and the overall ease of managing healthcare needs within this rural community. This "Alzheimer's Score" will help illuminate the realities of **transportation** options.

Parishville, nestled in the heart of the Adirondack region, is a place of natural beauty, but its rural setting presents unique challenges regarding healthcare. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns, requiring travel that can be difficult for those with cognitive impairments. Assessing the accessibility of these facilities is paramount.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery connecting Parishville to the outside world is State Route 72. This two-lane road provides the most direct route to Potsdam, approximately 20 miles away, where the primary healthcare provider, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, is located. Expect a drive time of roughly 30-40 minutes under normal conditions. During winter, this can easily double due to snow and ice. Navigating Route 72 requires vigilance, particularly during periods of reduced visibility.

Another significant route is State Route 3, which offers access to larger towns like Tupper Lake, approximately 35 miles away, and Saranac Lake, about 50 miles distant. These towns offer additional medical resources, including specialized clinics and rehabilitation centers. The drive to Tupper Lake typically takes around an hour, while Saranac Lake can require a journey of an hour and fifteen minutes, again, depending on weather.

The roads in this region are generally well-maintained, but the remoteness means emergency services response times can be longer than in urban areas. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may require urgent medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Parishville are extremely limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transportation system (SLCPT) provides some service, but it is not readily accessible within Parishville itself. The SLCPT's routes primarily serve larger towns and cities, and the frequency of service is often limited, particularly on weekends and evenings.

The SLCPT does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the need for advance booking, the limited route coverage, and the potential for lengthy travel times make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many individuals with Alzheimer's. Confirming routes and schedules requires contacting the SLCPT directly.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually nonexistent in Parishville and the surrounding areas. This lack of readily available transportation significantly impacts **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services are available, but their availability and cost can vary. These services are often booked in advance and may involve significant wait times. Researching local medical transport providers, their service areas, and their pricing structures is essential.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

While specific medical transport brands fluctuate, the following options are likely to be available in the region:

* **Ambulance Services:** Emergency medical services are available in Parishville. However, these are for emergencies.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):** Companies specializing in NEMT may offer transportation to and from medical appointments. Researching local providers is crucial.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services:**

The Canton-Potsdam Hospital is the primary healthcare provider for residents of Parishville. It offers a range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. However, access to specialized Alzheimer's care, such as memory care clinics or support groups, may require travel to larger cities like Syracuse or Albany.

Other healthcare facilities in the area include:

* **Physician Offices:** Local physician offices offer primary care services.
* **Specialist Clinics:** Specialist clinics in Potsdam and surrounding areas provide specialized care.
* **Pharmacies:** Local pharmacies provide prescription and over-the-counter medications.

**Support Services and Resources:**

Access to support services is crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The St. Lawrence County Office for the Aging provides resources and support for seniors, including information on caregiving, respite care, and other relevant services.

Other resources include:

* **Alzheimer's Association:** The Alzheimer's Association offers support groups, educational programs, and advocacy services.
* **Caregiver Support Groups:** Local support groups provide a safe space for caregivers to share experiences and receive emotional support.
* **Home Healthcare Agencies:** Home healthcare agencies offer in-home care services, including personal care, medication management, and companionship.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Living in Parishville presents several challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's:

* **Limited Transportation Options:** The lack of public transit and ride-sharing services makes it difficult to access medical appointments and other essential services.
* **Long Travel Times:** The distance to healthcare facilities can be a significant burden, especially during inclement weather.
* **Social Isolation:** The rural setting can lead to social isolation, which can exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer's.
* **Access to Specialized Care:** Access to specialized Alzheimer's care, such as memory care clinics and support groups, may require travel to larger cities.

**Recommendations:**

For individuals and families considering **moving to Parishville** with a loved one with Alzheimer's, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Carefully evaluate the individual's transportation needs and develop a plan for accessing medical appointments and other essential services.
* **Research Medical Transport Options:** Identify and contact local medical transport providers to determine their availability, pricing, and service areas.
* **Explore Home Healthcare Services:** Investigate the availability of home healthcare services to provide in-home care and support.
* **Connect with Support Services:** Reach out to the St. Lawrence County Office for the Aging and the Alzheimer's Association to access support services and resources.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, choose a residence that is located near healthcare facilities or within a reasonable distance of medical transport services.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Parishville, NY (ZIP Code 13672) requires careful planning and a proactive approach. While the natural beauty and peaceful environment of this rural community may be appealing, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to healthcare facilities pose significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. Thoroughly assessing **healthcare access**, exploring available resources, and developing a comprehensive care plan are essential for ensuring the well-being of those affected by this disease. The key is to be prepared, proactive, and to seek out the available support systems to make the best of the situation.