13602, Fort Drum, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13602, Fort Drum, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

98.08 percent of residents in 13602 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 7.91 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 13602

The crisp air of Northern New York, a landscape sculpted by the St. Lawrence River and the Adirondack Mountains, often beckons those seeking a change of pace. For families, especially those with health considerations like asthma, a move to ZIP Code 13602, encompassing the city of Watertown and its environs, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, a critical factor influencing the quality of life for individuals managing respiratory conditions. It considers the accessibility of medical facilities, a crucial element for anyone contemplating moving to Fort Drum or the surrounding area.

The primary challenge in 13602 lies in its relative remoteness. While Watertown offers a welcoming community, the distances to specialized medical care, particularly for asthma, can be significant. This is especially true for those without reliable personal transportation. The local infrastructure, while improving, presents a unique set of hurdles for those reliant on public transit or facing transportation limitations.

Driving, the dominant mode of transportation, necessitates understanding the local road network. Interstate 81 (I-81) serves as the major north-south artery, connecting Watertown to Syracuse and beyond. The drive to Syracuse, home to advanced medical centers like Upstate University Hospital, can take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in ideal conditions. This drive, however, can be significantly impacted by weather, particularly during the harsh winters that characterize the region.

Route 12, another critical thoroughfare, runs parallel to the Black River, providing access to local services and connecting Watertown to smaller communities. Route 3, also a major road, offers access to the east, towards the Adirondack Park. The time of day and traffic conditions, even on these seemingly less congested roads, can dramatically alter travel times, a critical factor when managing an asthma exacerbation.

Public transportation options are available, but they are limited. The Watertown Urban Transit Authority (WUTA) operates several bus routes within the city. These routes, while offering a degree of mobility, may not directly serve all medical facilities or provide the flexibility needed for frequent appointments or emergency situations. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. ADA-accessible buses are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the overall network is not as extensive as those found in larger metropolitan areas.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in Watertown, offering an alternative to public transportation and personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also add up, particularly for frequent medical appointments, potentially creating a financial burden for individuals with chronic conditions.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another option. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare systems, can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, availability and cost can vary, and it is essential to research the options and ensure they meet the specific needs of the individual.

Healthcare access in 13602 is centered around Samaritan Medical Center, the primary hospital in Watertown. The hospital offers a range of services, including an emergency room and specialists. However, for specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, patients may need to travel to Syracuse or other regional medical centers. This travel time adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The Asthma Score for 13602, therefore, is influenced by a combination of factors. The remoteness of the area necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or, in their absence, potentially less-reliable public transit or ride-sharing options. The availability of specialized asthma care within a reasonable driving distance is another critical consideration. The harsh winters, with their potential for snow and ice, can further complicate transportation and impact healthcare access.

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Fort Drum or the Watertown area, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is crucial. This includes evaluating the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and their ability to drive or access alternative transportation options. The availability of support networks, such as family or friends who can provide transportation assistance, is also a significant factor.

The decision to relocate to 13602 must be made with a clear understanding of the potential challenges related to healthcare access. While Watertown offers a welcoming community and access to essential services, the limitations of the transportation infrastructure and the need for travel to specialized medical facilities can present obstacles for individuals managing asthma. Careful planning, research, and a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation are essential for ensuring a good quality of life and effective healthcare management. This includes exploring all available options, from personal vehicles to ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers, and understanding the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times. Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 13602 reflects the need for careful consideration and proactive planning to ensure that healthcare access is readily available and manageable for individuals with asthma.