12928, Crown Point, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12928, Crown Point, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.57 percent of residents in 12928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 19.12 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crown Point (ZIP Code 12928)

Crown Point, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, offers stunning natural beauty and a close-knit community. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of healthcare access can be a complex equation. This write-up, designed to inform potential residents, provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP Code 12928, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare access. The goal is to help you understand the challenges and opportunities associated with moving to Crown Point, especially if you or a loved one require frequent medical attention.

The Asthma Score considers several factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability and efficiency of transportation options, and the availability of specialized services. We’ll evaluate drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the accessibility landscape. This information is crucial for individuals seeking to relocate and those already residing in the area, enabling informed decisions regarding their health management.

**Drive Times: The Road to Relief**

For residents of Crown Point, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is by car. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel on various roads. The most direct route to Elizabethtown Community Hospital, approximately 20 miles away, involves a journey on **US Route 9N** and **NY-9N**. Under ideal conditions, this drive takes around 30 minutes. However, weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling or tripling the duration.

Traveling to larger hospitals in Plattsburgh, such as the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), requires a longer drive. The journey, approximately 50 miles, involves taking **NY-9N** to **US Route 9** and then onto **Interstate 87 (the Northway)**. This drive typically takes about an hour, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or on weekends, can add considerable delays. This highlights the importance of planning for unexpected circumstances when scheduling medical appointments.

Furthermore, access to specialized pulmonology and allergy clinics may require travel to Burlington, Vermont, or Albany, New York, significantly increasing travel times. These longer distances necessitate careful consideration of potential travel fatigue and the impact on asthma management.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Crown Point are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the Clinton Essex Warren Washington (CEWW) Transportation System. However, their routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is not comprehensive. Service to Crown Point is available, but routes and schedules are limited, especially on weekends. The CEWW system offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent schedules and limited route coverage make public transit a less viable option for frequent healthcare visits, especially for those with acute asthma symptoms.

The lack of robust public transit options underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. For individuals unable to drive, this presents a significant challenge in accessing timely medical care. The absence of frequent and reliable public transit can exacerbate the challenges of managing asthma, particularly during exacerbations.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the Crown Point area. Availability may be sporadic, and wait times can be lengthy, making them unreliable for urgent medical needs. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services necessitates exploring alternative transportation options.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, the availability of these services and their response times can vary. Ambulance services are primarily for emergencies, while NEMT services cater to non-emergency medical appointments. Identifying reliable NEMT providers in advance is essential for individuals with asthma who may require transportation to regular check-ups or specialized treatments. Researching and establishing relationships with these services is a vital step in ensuring healthcare access.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Crown Point (ZIP Code 12928) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While the area offers scenic beauty and a strong sense of community, the limited transportation options pose challenges for individuals managing asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive measures.

The Asthma Score is also influenced by the distance to specialized care, the potential for weather-related travel delays, and the availability of medical transport services. Individuals with asthma should consider these factors carefully when making decisions about relocating to or residing in Crown Point.

**Recommendations for Asthma Management in Crown Point**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Crown Point, or for those already living there, several strategies can enhance healthcare access:

* **Establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician and pulmonologist.** Regular check-ups and proactive management are crucial.
* **Develop a comprehensive asthma action plan.** This plan should outline steps to take during exacerbations and include emergency contact information.
* **Explore and secure reliable transportation options.** This may involve relying on family members, friends, or pre-arranging medical transport services.
* **Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times.** Plan appointments accordingly and be prepared for potential delays.
* **Research and identify local pharmacies and their hours of operation.** Ensure access to necessary medications.
* **Advocate for improved public transportation services.** Increased frequency and expanded route coverage would significantly benefit residents.
* **Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and their response times.**

By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively addressing potential challenges, individuals with asthma can successfully manage their condition and enjoy the benefits of living in Crown Point. The Asthma Score is not a definitive judgment but a tool to facilitate informed decisions and promote proactive healthcare management. The beauty of the Adirondacks, the close-knit community, and the slower pace of life can be yours, even with the challenges of transportation.