12916, Brushton, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 12916, Brushton, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.45 percent of residents in 12916 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Brushton, NY (ZIP Code 12916)

The crisp air of Brushton, New York, might beckon those seeking respite, but for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of healthcare access are paramount. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for healthcare transportation within ZIP code 12916, providing a "COPD Score" based on commute times, available transportation options, and accessibility features. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Brushton, especially those with respiratory conditions.

Brushton, a rural community nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized pulmonary care, are located outside the immediate vicinity. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of travel times and modes of transportation for regular appointments, emergency situations, and access to essential medications. The "COPD Score" reflects the degree of difficulty in accessing healthcare, factoring in the limitations imposed by COPD itself.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation in Brushton is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars underscores the importance of reliable transportation for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms that can make driving difficult.

The closest major hospital, Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, NY, is approximately 20 miles from Brushton. The most direct route typically involves traveling south on **State Route 11**, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is approximately 30 to 40 minutes. This drive time, however, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice are prevalent.

Another option, although slightly longer, is to travel east on **County Route 28** and then south on **State Route 37**. This route, while potentially offering a more scenic drive, adds approximately 10-15 minutes to the overall travel time. The condition of these county roads varies, and they may not be as well-maintained as State Route 11, especially during inclement weather.

For specialized pulmonary care, individuals may need to travel to larger medical centers in Plattsburgh, NY, or even Burlington, VT. These trips, which involve driving on **Interstate 87 (The Northway)** and potentially crossing state lines, can extend travel times significantly. The drive to Plattsburgh, approximately 70 miles, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather. Burlington, VT, is about a 3-hour drive.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 12916 are extremely limited. The Franklin County Public Transportation system offers some services, but the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with COPD. The frequency of service is often infrequent, and the routes may not directly connect Brushton with key healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transportation is a critical concern. While federal regulations mandate ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that drivers are trained to assist passengers with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles in rural areas can be inconsistent. Individuals with COPD may require assistance with boarding and disembarking, and the lack of accessible features can significantly impede their ability to use public transportation.

Details about public transportation routes are available through the Franklin County Public Transportation website, but potential riders should thoroughly investigate routes, schedules, and accessibility features before relying on this option.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag of Availability**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Brushton. The rural nature of the area and the limited demand for these services mean that availability is often unreliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for individuals with COPD who require predictable and timely transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from healthcare appointments, are available, but their availability and cost vary. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, and the availability of vehicles equipped with oxygen or other medical equipment may be limited.

Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. Researching and contacting these providers in advance is crucial to understand their services, costs, and availability.

**The COPD Score: Evaluating Healthcare Access in Brushton**

Based on the factors discussed above, the "COPD Score" for Brushton (ZIP code 12916) is moderately challenging. The score reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** While the drive to Alice Hyde Medical Center is manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays increase the risk for individuals with COPD. Longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose a significant challenge.
* **Public Transportation:** The limited availability and inconsistent accessibility of public transportation severely restrict healthcare access for individuals with COPD.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The unreliability of ride-sharing and the potential cost and limited availability of medical transport services further compound the transportation challenges.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering Moving to Brushton**

Individuals with COPD considering moving to Brushton should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and develop a comprehensive plan for accessing healthcare. This plan should include:

* **Assessing Personal Transportation:** Ensuring access to a reliable vehicle and considering the potential impact of weather conditions on travel.
* **Exploring Medical Transportation Options:** Researching and contacting medical transportation providers to understand their services, costs, and availability.
* **Planning for Emergencies:** Developing a plan for emergency medical situations, including knowing the location of the nearest emergency room and having a backup transportation plan.
* **Building a Support Network:** Establishing a support network of family, friends, or caregivers who can assist with transportation to and from medical appointments.
* **Consulting with Healthcare Providers:** Discussing transportation challenges with healthcare providers and seeking their recommendations for managing healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Moving to Brushton offers the potential for a tranquil lifestyle, but individuals with COPD must carefully consider the challenges of healthcare access. While the community may offer a peaceful setting, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential cost of medical transportation services necessitate proactive planning and a commitment to ensuring reliable access to healthcare. Understanding these realities is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Brushton and for maintaining a high quality of life while managing COPD. The “COPD Score” emphasizes the importance of prioritizing healthcare access when considering the move.