13646, Hammond, New York Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 13646, Hammond, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.18 percent of residents in 13646 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gouverneur Hospital with a distance of 13.04 miles from the area.

**Arthritis Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13646 (Hammond, NY)**

The crisp air of the St. Lawrence River Valley embraces the small town of Hammond, New York (ZIP code 13646). Nestled near the Canadian border, its rural charm offers a peaceful existence, but for those managing arthritis, the serenity can be challenged by the realities of healthcare access. This report assesses the transportation landscape, providing an “Arthritis Score” to help potential residents understand the ease or difficulty of commuting to medical appointments. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, all critical factors for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Arthritis Score is not a numerical grade but a narrative assessment, painting a picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities within and surrounding Hammond. It acknowledges that arthritis can significantly impact mobility, making reliable and accessible transportation a necessity for maintaining health. This write-up is designed to inform individuals considering a move to Hammond, ensuring they can make an informed decision about their healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions**

The primary mode of transportation in Hammond is the personal vehicle. The town's location necessitates car travel for most errands, including accessing healthcare. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, requiring varying drive times.

For general practitioners and basic medical services, residents often travel to Ogdensburg, approximately 20 miles away. The journey typically involves using New York State Route 37, a major east-west artery. Drive times to Ogdensburg average 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 37 is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can create hazardous conditions, particularly for those with arthritis who may experience increased pain and stiffness in cold temperatures.

Specialized care, such as rheumatology or orthopedic services, often necessitates travel to Watertown, about 60 miles from Hammond. This commute involves using Route 37 east and then connecting to Interstate 81 south. The drive to Watertown can take 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Interstate 81 is a major highway, but it can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, adding to the stress of travel for individuals with arthritis.

Road conditions, particularly during winter, pose a significant challenge. Snow and ice can make driving difficult and dangerous. The physical act of driving, including gripping the steering wheel and operating the pedals, can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Therefore, winter driving requires careful planning and consideration of weather forecasts.

**Public Transportation**

Public transportation options in Hammond are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transportation system (SLCPT) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The SLCPT operates a demand-response system, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance.

The SLCPT offers ADA-accessible vehicles, equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements can make it challenging for individuals with arthritis to access healthcare. The need to book rides in advance, combined with potential delays, can add to the stress and fatigue associated with medical appointments. The SLCPT's service area may not extend to all the healthcare providers needed, further limiting its usefulness.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in the Hammond area. Availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore not a reliable option.

Medical transportation services are available, but their cost and availability vary. These services often cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves and may offer door-to-door transportation. However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant burden, particularly for those on fixed incomes. Booking these services often requires advance notice, further complicating the process.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

The availability of healthcare providers within Hammond is limited. Residents must travel to nearby towns and cities for most medical services. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The physical act of traveling, including the time spent in a car, can exacerbate arthritis symptoms.

The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities is another important consideration. Individuals with mobility limitations require parking spaces close to the entrance. The availability of these spaces can vary, and it is advisable to contact the medical facility in advance to inquire about parking arrangements.

**Arthritis Score Summary**

The Arthritis Score for commuting to healthcare in Hammond, NY (ZIP code 13646) is moderately challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transportation and ride-sharing options, presents difficulties for individuals with arthritis. Drive times to healthcare facilities can be significant, particularly for specialized care. Winter weather conditions can further complicate travel.

While the SLCPT offers ADA-accessible vehicles, its limited service area and scheduling requirements restrict its usefulness. Ride-sharing services are unreliable, and medical transportation can be costly. Healthcare access in Hammond requires careful planning, consideration of weather conditions, and potential reliance on family or friends for transportation assistance.

**Moving to Hammond with Arthritis**

Individuals with arthritis considering a move to Hammond should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. The rural nature of the area necessitates proactive planning to ensure consistent access to medical care.

Before moving, it is advisable to research the availability of healthcare providers in the surrounding areas, including Ogdensburg and Watertown. Contacting medical facilities to inquire about accessible parking and transportation assistance is also recommended.

Exploring options for home healthcare services, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, may be beneficial. These services can help manage arthritis symptoms and reduce the need for frequent travel.

Building a support network of family, friends, or community members can also be invaluable. Having someone available to provide transportation assistance or accompany you to medical appointments can significantly improve your quality of life.

Living with arthritis in Hammond requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of commuting to medical appointments necessitate proactive planning and a willingness to adapt. By understanding the transportation landscape and exploring available resources, individuals with arthritis can successfully navigate the healthcare system and maintain their health and well-being. The ability to access healthcare is a crucial component of a healthy life, and it is important to consider these factors when moving to a new area.