12443, Hurley, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12443, Hurley, New York is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.99 percent of residents in 12443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Healthalliance Hospital Marys Avenue Campus with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12443 (Hurley, NY)

The crisp air of Hurley, New York (ZIP Code 12443), nestled amidst the Catskill Mountains, offers a certain allure. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting necessitates a thorough examination of healthcare access. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," evaluates the ease of reaching medical facilities, a critical component of managing respiratory conditions. The ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare is paramount, especially during an asthma exacerbation. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to determine the accessibility of medical care for residents.

The primary determinant of the Asthma Score is the drive time to the nearest emergency room and specialist care. The closest hospital with an emergency department is HealthAlliance Hospital – Broadway Campus in Kingston, approximately 8.5 miles away. The most direct route involves navigating **Route 28** east, then merging onto **Route 209** south. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase this time. The **Route 28** corridor, a vital transportation artery, can experience delays, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the region.

Specialist care, including pulmonologists and allergists, often requires travel to Kingston or even further afield. Kingston offers a variety of specialists. Accessing these appointments necessitates careful planning. The **Route 28/209** route remains the most common. The journey to Albany, approximately 60 miles away, presents another option, though it requires a longer commute, potentially exceeding an hour via the **New York State Thruway (I-87)**. This longer commute could be a significant burden during an asthma flare-up.

Public transportation in Hurley presents a limited option. The Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent, and their coverage within Hurley is sparse. Route J, connecting Kingston and Woodstock, offers a potential connection, but the frequency is limited. Furthermore, the UCAT system's accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with respiratory challenges, is a critical consideration. All UCAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, reliance on public transit adds considerable time to any healthcare journey, potentially exacerbating the stress of an asthma attack.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kingston area. However, their availability in Hurley can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Securing a ride during an emergency might prove challenging, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or emergency visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. These services, often provided by private companies, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and LifeNet are available in the region. However, these services typically require prior arrangements and can be costly. Their availability for urgent situations is not guaranteed, and they might not be the most practical solution during a sudden asthma attack.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of pharmacies. Several pharmacies are located in Kingston, accessible via the aforementioned routes. The ease of obtaining prescription medications is a vital component of asthma management. The ability to quickly and conveniently refill prescriptions is crucial for maintaining control of the condition.

Another factor is the availability of urgent care facilities. While the emergency room is the primary option for acute asthma exacerbations, urgent care centers can provide timely care for less severe episodes. Several urgent care facilities are available in Kingston, offering an alternative to the emergency room for certain situations.

Finally, the Asthma Score accounts for the presence of asthma-related support services. The American Lung Association and other organizations offer resources and support for individuals with asthma. Access to these resources, whether online or in person, can be invaluable for managing the condition.

Moving to Hurley, while offering the potential for a tranquil lifestyle, requires careful consideration for those with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access is high. Public transportation offers limited options, and ride-sharing availability is inconsistent. The drive times to emergency care and specialist appointments are manageable but susceptible to traffic delays. The availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities in Kingston provides some reassurance.

The Asthma Score for ZIP Code 12443 is, therefore, moderate. While healthcare access is available, it necessitates careful planning and reliance on personal transportation. The limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays during peak hours or adverse weather conditions are significant considerations. Individuals with asthma should carefully weigh these factors when considering a move to Hurley, ensuring they have a comprehensive plan for managing their condition, including readily accessible transportation and a clear understanding of healthcare access in the area. This plan should include a primary care physician in the area, as well as an emergency plan for asthma attacks.