12942, Keene, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12942, Keene, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.61 percent of residents in 12942 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keene, NY (ZIP Code 12942)

The crisp mountain air of Keene, New York, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, also presents a unique challenge for residents managing asthma. This write-up, a critical component of an “Asthma Score” assessment, delves into the intricacies of healthcare access within ZIP Code 12942, specifically focusing on **transportation** options. Understanding these options is paramount for individuals considering **moving to Keene**, especially those with respiratory sensitivities. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the accessibility of healthcare services, impacting the overall quality of life.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities. In Keene, this is largely dictated by the geography. The town, nestled within the Adirondack Mountains, boasts stunning scenery but presents **transportation** hurdles. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle. Drive times to key healthcare providers are essential to understand.

The closest hospital, Adirondack Medical Center (AMC) in Saranac Lake, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Keene, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. The route typically involves traveling on Route 73, a scenic but winding road, connecting Keene to the more major Route 86. Route 73, while offering breathtaking views, can be challenging during winter months, potentially increasing travel times and impacting **healthcare access**.

For specialized care, residents often need to travel further afield. Plattsburgh, approximately an hour and a half away, offers a wider range of medical specialists and services. This journey typically involves Route 73 to Interstate 87 (the Northway), a major north-south artery. The Northway provides a faster, more direct route, but weather conditions, particularly snow and ice, can significantly impact travel times.

Burlington, Vermont, roughly a two-hour drive, offers additional healthcare options. This route involves crossing state lines, adding to the complexity of planning for medical appointments. The journey typically involves Route 73 to Route 9N, then connecting to the ferry system across Lake Champlain, or using the longer route via the Northway and Interstate 89.

Public **transportation** options in Keene are limited. The primary public **transportation** option is the Essex County Public Transit (ECPT). ECPT provides bus services within Essex County, but its routes and schedules are limited, especially for rural areas. Service frequency is often reduced on weekends and holidays, potentially creating challenges for those needing urgent medical care. The ECPT routes that may be relevant for healthcare access would need to be carefully researched for specific schedules and stops within ZIP Code 12942. Information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, including features like wheelchair lifts, is crucial for assessing suitability for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability in Keene is highly variable. Demand, driver availability, and the remote location can significantly impact wait times and costs. Reliance on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments is not recommended.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Several companies provide ambulance and non-emergency medical **transportation** services in the area. These services, such as LifeNet, are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public **transportation**. Costs can vary depending on the distance, the type of service required, and insurance coverage.

For individuals **moving to Keene** with asthma, the availability and reliability of these **transportation** options are crucial. The Asthma Score must factor in the time required to reach medical facilities, the accessibility of public **transportation**, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical **transportation** options.

The impact of seasonal changes on **transportation** must be considered. Winter weather, with its snow, ice, and reduced visibility, can significantly increase travel times and the risk of accidents. This can impact **healthcare access** during the most challenging times.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Keene is also influenced by the availability of local pharmacies and urgent care facilities. While Keene does have local pharmacies, the availability of specialized asthma medications or equipment may require travel to larger towns. The presence of urgent care facilities, offering immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions, can significantly improve **healthcare access** during off-hours or when primary care physicians are unavailable.

The Asthma Score must also consider the potential impact of environmental factors. The air quality in Keene is generally good, but seasonal changes and potential air pollution from wood-burning stoves can trigger asthma symptoms. The score should include an assessment of local air quality monitoring data and the availability of resources for managing environmental triggers.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 12942 must provide a comprehensive assessment of **transportation** options, considering drive times, public **transportation** limitations, ride-sharing variability, and the availability of medical **transportation**. The score must also account for seasonal changes, environmental factors, and the availability of local healthcare resources. This information is vital for individuals with asthma considering **moving to Keene**, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score should also highlight the importance of proactive planning and preparation to ensure reliable **healthcare access**, particularly during emergencies or adverse weather conditions. This holistic approach will provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for managing asthma in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, Adirondack community.