13630, De Kalb Junction, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13630, De Kalb Junction, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 13630 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gouverneur Hospital with a distance of 14.03 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in De Kalb Junction (ZIP Code 13630)

The crisp air of De Kalb Junction, New York, a rural haven in St. Lawrence County, offers a certain charm. But for individuals managing asthma, the beauty of this environment must be balanced against the realities of accessing healthcare, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for residents of ZIP code 13630, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely healthcare access. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The cornerstone of assessing healthcare access in De Kalb Junction is understanding the primary routes to medical care. The nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities are located in the larger towns of Canton and Potsdam, requiring travel via the major thoroughfares. The most direct route to Canton, home to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, is primarily via **New York State Route 11**, a north-south artery. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Potsdam, another healthcare hub, is accessible via **New York State Route 11** and then **New York State Route 56**. This journey, which leads to St. Lawrence Health System's Potsdam Hospital, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can become problematic during an asthma attack, when every minute counts. Delays due to traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly impact a patient's condition and the effectiveness of treatment.

Public transportation options in De Kalb Junction are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system provides bus services, but the frequency and routes are not designed to prioritize rapid healthcare access. While the system does operate, the routes are not designed for rapid healthcare access. The primary route serving the area is the **Route 11/56** bus, which connects De Kalb Junction to Canton and Potsdam. However, the schedule is infrequent, with limited service on weekends and evenings.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma who may experience mobility issues during an attack, is a critical factor. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, including accessible buses and paratransit options. However, the availability of these services, particularly on short notice, can be a challenge in a rural setting. A person with asthma would need to plan ahead to utilize the accessible services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in De Kalb Junction. Their presence fluctuates based on driver availability and demand, making them an unreliable option for urgent healthcare needs. Relying on ride-sharing for transportation during an asthma emergency is not recommended. The lack of consistent availability and the potential for extended wait times significantly decrease the Asthma Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport, provide an alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services that offer transport to medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may not be readily available for sudden asthma exacerbations. The need to schedule these services in advance is a major drawback.

The Asthma Score for De Kalb Junction, therefore, reflects the challenges of accessing timely healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, combined with limited public transit options and the unreliability of ride-sharing services, significantly impacts the score. The drive times to Canton and Potsdam, while not excessively long, can be problematic during an asthma attack. The limited public transportation and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to De Kalb Junction, the Asthma Score should be a key consideration. Those with asthma must carefully evaluate their ability to manage their condition in an environment with limited transportation options. They should have a clear plan for accessing healthcare, including a backup plan for emergencies. This might include establishing relationships with local ambulance services, having a reliable personal vehicle, and understanding the limitations of public transit.

The impact of environmental factors on asthma control must also be considered. The air quality in De Kalb Junction is generally good, but seasonal changes, such as pollen counts and air pollution, can trigger asthma symptoms. Proactive measures, such as monitoring air quality reports and taking prescribed medications, are essential for managing asthma in this environment.

The Asthma Score is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the practical realities of living with asthma in a specific geographic location. In De Kalb Junction, the score is lower than in urban areas with robust public transportation and readily available ride-sharing services. The need for careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and awareness of environmental triggers are crucial for maintaining good asthma control.

The healthcare landscape in De Kalb Junction is not without its strengths. The presence of Canton-Potsdam Hospital and St. Lawrence Health System's Potsdam Hospital provides access to comprehensive medical care. However, the accessibility of these facilities, particularly during an asthma emergency, is a significant concern. The Asthma Score highlights the importance of proactive planning and the need for individuals with asthma to be well-prepared for potential challenges.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of De Kalb Junction, regardless of their health condition, have equitable access to healthcare. This requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of asthma management strategies. The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the current situation and identifying areas for improvement, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.