13615, Brownville, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13615, Brownville, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.29 percent of residents in 13615 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 4.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in Brownville, NY (ZIP Code 13615)

The crisp air of Brownville, New York, nestled along the Black River, offers a scenic escape. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting demands careful consideration. This Asthma Score analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically examining the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation options within and around ZIP Code 13615. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is paramount for asthma sufferers, making transportation infrastructure a vital determinant of quality of life. This write-up explores the available modes, from personal vehicles to public transit, assessing their strengths and weaknesses in relation to healthcare accessibility.

The primary focus will be on commute times to healthcare facilities equipped to treat asthma-related emergencies and routine care. This includes hospitals, urgent care clinics, and pulmonologists' offices. We will assess the impact of traffic, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transport options on the overall accessibility of healthcare services. For those considering moving to Brownville, understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in this area. The primary thoroughfare serving Brownville is **New York State Route 12**, which offers a direct route to Watertown, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. The drive to Samaritan Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this commute can easily extend to 30 minutes or more. **County Route 192** and local roads provide alternative routes, but these can be less direct and may involve navigating rural roads, potentially increasing travel time.

The condition of these roads, particularly during the winter months, poses a significant challenge. Snow and ice can severely impact travel times and increase the risk of accidents, especially for those with compromised respiratory systems. Road maintenance and snow removal efforts, therefore, directly influence healthcare access for asthma sufferers. Residents must be prepared for potential delays and consider the need for a reliable vehicle equipped for winter driving.

Public transportation options in Brownville are limited. The primary provider is the **Jefferson County Transit (JCT)**. While the JCT offers bus routes, their service frequency and coverage within ZIP Code 13615 are limited. Specific route numbers and schedules are crucial for determining their utility. The JCT does provide ADA-accessible buses, which are essential for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can make it challenging to reach healthcare appointments promptly, especially during off-peak hours or emergencies. The lack of late-night or weekend service further compounds these difficulties.

The JCT website should be consulted for specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA features. Access to healthcare is directly tied to the availability and reliability of public transportation, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities also impacts accessibility, as walking distances can be a significant burden for asthma sufferers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, offering a potentially more flexible transportation option. However, their availability in Brownville itself may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can significantly increase costs. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly in rural areas, is also a concern. The time it takes for a ride to arrive can be critical during an asthma attack.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for urgent medical needs or for individuals with specific medical requirements. However, the availability and response times of these services are crucial.

The distance to the nearest emergency room and the time it takes for an ambulance to arrive can be the difference between life and death for an asthma sufferer experiencing a severe attack. The coordination between emergency services, hospitals, and transportation providers is, therefore, a critical factor in assessing healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Brownville with asthma, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity to healthcare facilities, understanding the transportation options available, and evaluating the potential impact of weather conditions are crucial steps. The ability to drive or have access to a reliable vehicle is a significant advantage. Exploring the availability of ride-sharing services and understanding the limitations of public transportation are also necessary.

Furthermore, researching the availability of medical transportation services and understanding their response times is critical. The presence of a support network, including family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance, can also significantly improve healthcare access.

The Asthma Score for Brownville, NY (ZIP Code 13615) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Watertown offers access to comprehensive healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The impact of weather conditions and the availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the assessment. For individuals with asthma, the decision to move to Brownville should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation-related factors and a proactive plan to ensure reliable healthcare access. The overall score should be considered moderate, with the need for careful planning and preparedness to mitigate potential risks.