13613, Brasher Falls, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13613, Brasher Falls, New York is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.52 percent of residents in 13613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Massena Hospital Inc with a distance of 9.72 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Brasher Falls, NY (ZIP Code 13613)

Brasher Falls, nestled in the heart of St. Lawrence County, New York, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The COPD Score, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, is crucial for residents and those contemplating a move to the area. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 13613, examining the viability of commuting to healthcare facilities, recognizing the critical link between transportation and the ability to manage COPD effectively.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Brasher Falls is the ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and respiratory therapy sessions. This is particularly significant for COPD patients who require regular check-ups, medication refills, and potentially, frequent hospital visits. A reliable and efficient transportation network is not merely a convenience; it is a necessity for maintaining quality of life and preventing exacerbations.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Brasher Falls is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents some considerations for COPD patients. Driving distances to healthcare facilities can be substantial, especially for specialized care.

The most direct route to healthcare in the region often involves traveling on **New York State Route 11B**, a two-lane highway that runs through the heart of Brasher Falls. Depending on the destination, this route may lead to **Potsdam**, approximately 15 miles away, or to **Massena**, roughly 20 miles distant. These towns host the nearest hospitals and specialized clinics.

Driving to Potsdam typically takes around 20-30 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snowfalls common in the region, drive times can significantly increase, potentially impacting the ability of a COPD patient to reach medical care promptly. Furthermore, the rural nature of the roads means that ambulance response times could be longer than in more urban areas.

Travel to Massena, while slightly longer, offers access to additional healthcare resources. The journey often involves utilizing **New York State Route 37**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and can take approximately 30-40 minutes. This route, like Route 11B, can be affected by weather conditions, and the longer drive time necessitates careful planning for appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Brasher Falls are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. Currently, the primary public transit provider in St. Lawrence County is the **St. Lawrence County Public Transportation (SLCPT)**. However, SLCPT services in the Brasher Falls area are not extensive.

SLCPT operates several routes, but their frequency and coverage in the 13613 ZIP code may be limited. Individuals with COPD should contact SLCPT directly to inquire about specific routes and schedules that serve Brasher Falls and connect to healthcare facilities.

It is crucial to ascertain the availability of **ADA-accessible** buses. Patients with COPD may experience mobility limitations or require assistance, and accessible transportation is essential for their healthcare access. Confirming the availability of wheelchair lifts, ramps, and other accommodations is a prerequisite.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of St. Lawrence County, but their presence in Brasher Falls is uncertain. The availability of these services can fluctuate based on driver availability and demand. Patients should investigate whether ride-sharing services are consistently accessible in the area and whether drivers are familiar with medical facilities.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with COPD who require assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility.

Some of the medical transport brands that serve the area include **Ambu-Bus**, **Medicaid Transportation Services**, and **North Country Medical Transportation**. These services often require advance booking, and it is essential to verify their coverage area, fees, and any special accommodations they provide, such as oxygen support.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Brasher Falls:**

The COPD Score for Brasher Falls, 13613, reveals a complex interplay of factors affecting healthcare access. While the road network provides the primary mode of transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those unable to drive or those facing mobility limitations. The limited public transportation options further exacerbate these challenges.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Brasher Falls, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. The availability of reliable transportation to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in maintaining health and well-being.

Before making a move, potential residents should:

* **Assess their ability to drive and maintain a vehicle.**
* **Investigate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.**
* **Contact SLCPT to determine the scope of their services in Brasher Falls.**
* **Research medical transport options and their associated costs.**
* **Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times.**

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Brasher Falls highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing COPD. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they have the necessary support to maintain their health and quality of life while living in Brasher Falls. The future of healthcare access in this region depends on improving public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of accessible and affordable medical transport options.