10928, Highland Falls, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 10928, Highland Falls, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 10928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highland Falls (ZIP Code 10928)

The crisp air of the Hudson Highlands, a siren song for those seeking respite from urban clamor, also presents a unique challenge for residents of Highland Falls, New York (ZIP Code 10928), particularly those managing asthma. While the beauty of the landscape is undeniable, the practicalities of accessing healthcare, especially during an asthma exacerbation, demand careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around Highland Falls, evaluating the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for current residents and those considering moving to Highland Falls, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access are readily available.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Highland Falls is, of course, the ability to reach a medical facility. The primary healthcare provider within the immediate vicinity is the Garnet Health Doctors practice, located at 213 Main Street. This facility offers primary care services, potentially mitigating the need for emergency room visits for routine asthma management. However, specialized care, such as pulmonology, may necessitate travel outside the town limits.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for residents of Highland Falls. The primary arteries for navigating the area are the Palisades Interstate Parkway (PIP) and Route 9W. The PIP, a scenic highway offering stunning views of the Hudson River, provides a direct route south towards larger medical centers in the New York City metropolitan area. However, the PIP is known for its potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. Route 9W, a more local road, offers an alternative, though it can be slower due to traffic lights and more frequent stops.

The drive time to Garnet Health Doctors from most locations within Highland Falls is generally under ten minutes. For specialized care, the drive time to larger hospitals in the region, such as Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown (approximately 25 miles), or the hospitals in Westchester County, can range from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. These longer travel times can pose a significant challenge during an asthma attack, emphasizing the importance of rapid access to emergency medical services.

Public transportation options in Highland Falls are more limited. The primary provider is the Transport of Rockland (TOR), offering bus routes throughout Rockland County and into Orange County. The specific routes serving Highland Falls include the 1, 1A, and 19. These buses connect Highland Falls to larger transportation hubs, like the Metro-North Railroad station in Garrison, providing access to New York City. However, bus frequency can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially extending travel times to healthcare appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with asthma, especially those who may experience mobility limitations during an exacerbation. TOR buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the ease of boarding and disembarking can vary depending on the bus and the specific route.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Highland Falls area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation, particularly for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are essential for individuals with asthma who require assistance getting to medical appointments or during an emergency. In Highland Falls, ambulance services are provided by the Highland Falls Ambulance Corps. NEMT providers, such as Access Transportation and MedRide, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, including doctor's visits and physical therapy.

The availability and response times of emergency medical services are critical for managing asthma. The Highland Falls Ambulance Corps provides 24/7 coverage, ensuring rapid response to medical emergencies. The proximity of the ambulance station to residential areas is a positive factor in terms of response times.

When assessing the "Asthma Score" for Highland Falls, the following factors are paramount. The relatively short drive time to local healthcare providers is a positive. However, the longer travel times to specialized care facilities and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers provides additional options, but the cost and availability of these services must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Highland Falls with asthma, a thorough understanding of the transportation options and their limitations is essential. The proximity to major highways, such as the PIP, provides access to a wider range of healthcare services, but the potential for traffic congestion must be factored in. The availability of public transportation, while limited, offers an alternative for those who do not drive. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional options, but these services may not always be readily available or affordable.

The "Asthma Score" for Highland Falls reflects a mixed bag. While the town offers a degree of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create potential barriers for individuals with asthma. The importance of planning for transportation needs, particularly during an asthma exacerbation, cannot be overstated.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Highland Falls is a personal one. However, prospective residents with asthma should carefully weigh the transportation challenges against the town's other attractions, such as its proximity to nature and its small-town charm. A proactive approach to healthcare access, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and exploring transportation options, is crucial for managing asthma effectively in Highland Falls.

The ideal scenario would be a robust public transportation system with frequent service, connecting Highland Falls to specialized healthcare providers in the region. Until that becomes a reality, residents with asthma must rely on a combination of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers to ensure timely access to medical care. The strategic use of these resources, coupled with a strong understanding of the local healthcare landscape, will contribute to a higher quality of life for individuals with asthma in Highland Falls.