13658, Lisbon, New York Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 13658, Lisbon, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.01 percent of residents in 13658 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center with a distance of 10.77 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lisbon, NY (ZIP Code 13658)

Considering a move to Lisbon, New York (ZIP code 13658)? For those managing arthritis, the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of commuting to essential medical services, focusing on transportation options available to residents. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for individuals with mobility challenges.

Lisbon, nestled in St. Lawrence County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The rural setting necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The availability of specialized medical care, particularly rheumatology, becomes a critical factor in the quality of life for individuals with arthritis. This analysis aims to equip prospective residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of transportation. Navigating the roads of Lisbon and its surrounding areas requires an understanding of the key routes. Interstate 81 (I-81) is a major north-south artery, offering a connection to Syracuse and beyond. However, it is not directly accessible from Lisbon.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Lisbon to larger towns and cities is New York State Route 37 (NY-37). This road serves as the lifeline for accessing healthcare facilities in Ogdensburg and Massena. Drive times are crucial. Reaching Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, a common destination for general medical needs, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via NY-37.

For specialized care, such as rheumatology, the journey may extend. Traveling to larger cities like Watertown or Syracuse, where more specialized medical practices are located, necessitates longer drives. Watertown, approximately an hour and a half away via NY-37 and I-81, offers a wider range of specialists. Syracuse, a two-and-a-half-hour drive, provides access to renowned medical centers.

Road conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice necessitate careful driving and may require adjusting travel plans. Considering the potential for inclement weather is vital for individuals with arthritis, as it can exacerbate pain and mobility issues.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Lisbon are limited. St. Lawrence County Public Transit (SLCPT) provides some service, but it's not as extensive as in urban areas. The availability of routes and schedules needs careful investigation.

SLCPT operates routes connecting various towns within the county, but the frequency of service may be infrequent. Riders with arthritis must confirm the availability of accessible vehicles, including those equipped with ramps or lifts, to accommodate mobility devices. Contacting SLCPT directly is essential to confirm ADA compliance on specific routes.

The lack of a robust public transit system underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods for accessing healthcare. Planning ahead and coordinating transportation becomes crucial.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Lisbon. Their presence can vary depending on driver availability and demand. Checking the app for service availability before relying on ride-sharing is essential.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to appointments. Several medical transport providers operate in the region. Researching and contacting these providers is critical.

Medical transport services often provide door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges. They may also be equipped to handle medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or walkers. The cost of medical transport can vary, so it's important to inquire about pricing and insurance coverage.

**Healthcare Access and the Lisbon Landscape**

The availability of healthcare providers within Lisbon itself is limited. Residents often rely on healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Ogdensburg. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

The Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg provides a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and some specialized services. Accessing these services is relatively straightforward, with a short drive via NY-37.

However, for specialized care, such as rheumatology, individuals may need to travel further afield. This underscores the importance of understanding transportation options and planning appointments accordingly.

**Moving to Lisbon: A Realistic Assessment**

For individuals with arthritis considering a move to Lisbon, a realistic assessment of healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges.

Relying on personal vehicles is often the most practical option. Planning for potential delays due to weather conditions is essential. Exploring medical transport services and confirming the availability of accessible public transit options is also important.

The "Arthritis Score" for Lisbon, NY (13658) reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures. The limited public transit and potential reliance on longer drives to access specialized care require a thoughtful approach to healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Mobility and Care**

Navigating healthcare in Lisbon requires a proactive approach. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial.

Prioritizing healthcare access involves researching healthcare providers, planning appointments in advance, and securing reliable transportation. Individuals with arthritis should prioritize mobility and consider the impact of travel on their condition.

By carefully evaluating transportation options and healthcare access, prospective residents can make informed decisions about moving to Lisbon, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being. The key is to be prepared, plan ahead, and proactively manage transportation needs to maintain a high quality of life.