12847, Long Lake, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12847, Long Lake, New York is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.40 percent of residents in 12847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 38.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 32.04 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Long Lake, NY (ZIP Code 12847)

Considering a move to the serene beauty of Long Lake, New York (ZIP Code 12847)? This assessment provides an "Asthma Score" – a personalized evaluation of healthcare accessibility, crucial for individuals managing asthma. Factors like transportation options, drive times, and public transit availability are considered, offering a clear picture of navigating healthcare within this Adirondack haven. This information is particularly pertinent for those seeking relocation, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and consistent medical attention.

The "Asthma Score" isn't a numerical grade; it's a narrative framework. It weighs the practical realities of accessing healthcare against the backdrop of Long Lake's unique location. It acknowledges that living in a rural environment presents distinct challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access, specifically for those with chronic respiratory conditions. The aim is to empower informed decision-making, enabling a smoother transition and ensuring that healthcare needs are met.

### Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries

For residents of Long Lake, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access. The primary artery connecting Long Lake to the outside world is **New York State Route 30**, a scenic highway that winds through the Adirondack Park. Driving south on Route 30 leads to the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive. This hospital is a critical healthcare hub for the region, offering a comprehensive range of services, including specialized respiratory care.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 30 offers access to the town of Tupper Lake, roughly a 45-minute drive. While Tupper Lake may not have a full-service hospital, it does have medical clinics and urgent care facilities. The drive itself is generally pleasant, with minimal traffic congestion, except during peak tourist seasons. However, winter weather can significantly impact drive times and road conditions, necessitating careful planning and consideration for potential delays.

Another important route is **New York State Route 28**, which intersects with Route 30 near Blue Mountain Lake. Route 28 provides access to the more populated areas south of Long Lake, including the town of Inlet, and eventually leads to Utica, a larger city with a wider range of healthcare specialists. The drive to Utica, however, is a considerable undertaking, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This longer drive necessitates careful consideration for those needing frequent or urgent medical attention.

### Public Transit: Limited Options, ADA Considerations

Public transportation options in Long Lake and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus service operating within the town itself. The lack of readily available public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to their medical condition. This limitation directly impacts healthcare access, making it more difficult for those with asthma to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other essential services.

While there is no local public transit, the **North Country Public Transportation (NCPT)** might offer some limited services in the surrounding areas. The NCPT provides transportation within Franklin and Essex Counties, but service to Long Lake is infrequent and may not be a viable option for regular healthcare needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles should be confirmed with NCPT, as this is a critical factor for individuals with mobility limitations.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Long Lake. Their presence is sporadic and unreliable, making them an unsuitable option for scheduled medical appointments. This lack of ride-sharing options further emphasizes the dependence on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are available, though they may be limited in scope and availability. **Adirondack Medical Transport** and similar companies provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transport to and from medical appointments. These services often require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergency situations, should be carefully investigated.

### Healthcare Access: Considerations for Asthma Management

The primary healthcare facility in Long Lake is the **Long Lake Health Center**. This facility offers primary care services, including routine check-ups and management of chronic conditions like asthma. However, for specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, residents must travel to the Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake or further afield.

The availability of pharmacies in Long Lake is another crucial factor. The town has a local pharmacy, **Long Lake Pharmacy**, providing access to essential medications and asthma-related supplies. However, the pharmacy's hours and stock availability should be verified, especially for those with specific medication requirements. The distance to alternative pharmacies in other towns, such as Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake, should also be factored into healthcare planning.

### The Asthma Score: A Holistic Perspective

The "Asthma Score" for Long Lake (ZIP Code 12847) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the remoteness presents significant challenges for healthcare access. The lack of public transportation, limited ride-sharing options, and reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport necessitate careful planning and consideration for those with asthma.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly during winter months, require attention to ensure that medical needs can be met in a timely manner. The availability of specialized care and the accessibility of pharmacies are also crucial considerations.

### Moving to Long Lake: Planning for Healthcare

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Long Lake, proactive planning is essential. This includes:

* **Assessing personal transportation capabilities:** Ensuring reliable transportation is paramount.
* **Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider:** This facilitates ongoing care and medication management.
* **Researching medical transport options:** Identifying reliable services for non-emergency and emergency situations.
* **Understanding pharmacy access:** Confirming medication availability and refill procedures.
* **Considering seasonal weather impacts:** Planning for potential delays and road closures during winter.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about relocating to Long Lake, ensuring their healthcare needs are adequately addressed and their quality of life is maintained. The beauty of the Adirondacks can be enjoyed while managing asthma effectively, provided that adequate planning and preparation are undertaken. This "Asthma Score" write-up serves as a guide, helping individuals navigate the intricacies of healthcare access in this unique and beautiful location.