12979, Rouses Point, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12979, Rouses Point, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.09 percent of residents in 12979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 20.45 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rouses Point (ZIP Code 12979)

Considering a move to Rouses Point, New York (ZIP Code 12979), and managing asthma? Assessing the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an “Asthma Score,” evaluating transportation options to medical facilities, acknowledging the critical role of timely healthcare access for individuals with respiratory conditions. This write-up will explore the transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.

The primary concern is swift access to medical care during an asthma exacerbation. Delays can be life-threatening. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure and available resources is crucial for residents of Rouses Point. This assessment prioritizes the journey to healthcare providers, considering the potential impact of transportation on asthma management.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Rouses Point's location, nestled near the Canadian border, dictates its transportation network. The primary artery is Interstate 87 (I-87), also known as the Adirondack Northway, providing north-south access. Heading south on I-87 offers the quickest route to Plattsburgh, the closest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. Expect a drive time of approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

The journey to Plattsburgh involves navigating exits and potential bottlenecks, especially during peak hours. Route 9, a parallel road to I-87, offers an alternative, though it is typically slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. Route 9B, a more local road, provides another option, but it is not ideal for urgent medical needs.

For specialized care, Montreal, Canada, is accessible via the Route 129/Route 223 crossing. However, this route involves international border crossings, potentially adding significant time to the journey. This factor must be considered when planning for medical appointments or emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Rouses Point are limited. The Clinton County Public Transportation system (CCPT) operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service is not designed for emergencies. It is essential to note that the CCPT's routes and schedules are subject to change.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Confirming the availability and accessibility of CCPT vehicles is essential. The lack of frequent, fixed-route public transit poses a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. This reality significantly impacts healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Plattsburgh area, though their presence in Rouses Point may be less consistent. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments. Companies such as MedTrans Corporation and others provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and offer door-to-door assistance. However, their availability and cost should be thoroughly investigated.

**Healthcare Facilities and Access:**

The nearest major healthcare facility is the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh. CVPH offers comprehensive services, including an emergency room, pulmonology specialists, and respiratory therapy. This proximity is a significant advantage for Rouses Point residents.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in Rouses Point and nearby communities. These facilities can provide routine care and initial assessments. However, they may not have the specialized resources needed for severe asthma exacerbations.

**Assessing the Asthma Score:**

The “Asthma Score” considers several factors: drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing reliability, and the availability of medical transport. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease of access to healthcare.

* **Drive Times:** The relatively short drive to Plattsburgh (25-30 minutes) to CVPH is a positive factor. However, reliance on personal vehicles is a necessity.
* **Public Transit:** The lack of reliable public transit significantly reduces healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Ride-sharing services offer a potential backup, but their availability and reliability in Rouses Point are uncertain.
* **Medical Transport:** Medical transport services provide a dedicated option, but their cost and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

**Recommendations for Asthma Management in Rouses Point:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Rouses Point, several recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize Proximity:** Choose housing near major roadways (I-87) for quicker access to Plattsburgh.
* **Vehicle Dependency:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential.
* **Emergency Planning:** Develop a comprehensive asthma action plan with your physician.
* **Medical Transport:** Research and establish a relationship with a medical transport provider.
* **Local Resources:** Identify local primary care physicians and urgent care facilities.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure a sufficient supply of asthma medications and emergency inhalers.

**Conclusion:**

Rouses Point offers relatively good access to healthcare, primarily due to its proximity to Plattsburgh and the presence of I-87. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. Individuals with asthma must proactively plan for transportation, prioritize emergency preparedness, and establish relationships with healthcare providers. By understanding the transportation landscape and taking appropriate precautions, residents of Rouses Point can effectively manage their asthma and access the healthcare they need. This "Asthma Score" assessment highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access, providing crucial insights for those considering moving to this community.