12861, Putnam Station, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12861, Putnam Station, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.04 percent of residents in 12861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saratoga Hospital with a distance of 49.24 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Putnam Station (ZIP Code 12861)

Putnam Station, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique blend of natural beauty and rural living. For individuals managing asthma, the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** becomes a critical factor in daily life. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for residents of ZIP Code 12861, considering the challenges and opportunities in navigating to essential medical services.

The primary challenge for Putnam Station residents lies in its remoteness. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in Glens Falls and Saratoga Springs, both requiring travel. This geographic isolation necessitates a detailed examination of **transportation** options and their impact on the asthma sufferer.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** for residents. The primary route to Glens Falls, approximately 25 miles east, involves navigating Route 149. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and weekends. The drive, typically taking 30-45 minutes, can be stressful, potentially triggering asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals. The return journey, often undertaken after a medical appointment, could be further complicated by fatigue and the lingering effects of any medication.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Route 22, which runs north and south, to access Route 9. Route 9 offers a more direct route to Glens Falls, but it also experiences higher traffic volumes. This route, while potentially faster, exposes drivers to increased exhaust fumes, a known asthma trigger. The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, could also contribute to a bumpy ride, exacerbating respiratory issues.

For those seeking **healthcare access** in Saratoga Springs, roughly 40 miles southeast, the journey involves a combination of Route 149 and Interstate 87 (the Northway). The Northway offers a faster, more efficient commute, but it also exposes drivers to higher speeds and potentially more aggressive driving behaviors. The drive time, typically around 45 minutes to an hour, can be a significant undertaking, particularly for frequent appointments or emergency situations.

Public **transportation** options in Putnam Station are limited. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) system provides some bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving the city of Glens Falls. There is no direct bus service to Putnam Station. This lack of public **transportation** significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The GGFT system, while offering some ADA-accessible buses, does not fully address the needs of asthma sufferers. The long travel times and potential exposure to environmental triggers within the buses themselves can be problematic. The absence of dedicated asthma-friendly routes further complicates the situation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Putnam Station is inconsistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for many residents. Furthermore, the vehicles themselves might not be maintained to the standards necessary to minimize asthma triggers, such as dust and allergens.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while offering a more comfortable and controlled environment, can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services in Putnam Station needs to be confirmed.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Putnam Station residents is negatively impacted by the lack of readily available and reliable **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public **transportation** and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services, creates challenges for those managing asthma.

The absence of direct public **transportation** to healthcare facilities is a significant concern. The long drive times, exposure to traffic congestion and exhaust fumes, and the potential for stressful driving conditions all contribute to a less-than-ideal environment for asthma sufferers.

The cost of **transportation** also plays a crucial role. The expense of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services can create a financial burden, especially for individuals with chronic health conditions.

The **moving to Putnam Station** decision requires careful consideration for individuals with asthma. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** must be weighed against the potential benefits.

To improve the "Asthma Score" for Putnam Station, several strategies are needed. Expanding public **transportation** options, including dedicated routes to healthcare facilities, would be a significant step forward. Subsidizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services could also help improve **healthcare access** for those with limited financial resources.

Promoting carpooling and encouraging the use of electric vehicles could help reduce air pollution and minimize exposure to asthma triggers. Educating residents about asthma management and providing resources for accessing healthcare services are also essential.

Finally, advocating for the development of telemedicine and telehealth services could help bridge the gap in **healthcare access**, particularly for routine appointments and follow-up care. By addressing these challenges, Putnam Station can strive to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all its residents, including those managing asthma.