13685, Sackets Harbor, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13685, Sackets Harbor, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 13685 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 9.90 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13685

The crisp air of Sackets Harbor, New York, in ZIP Code 13685, beckons with its historical charm and stunning views of Lake Ontario. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), however, the idyllic setting demands a rigorous assessment of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**. This write-up offers a COPD Score analysis, considering the challenges of commuting to medical appointments, a critical factor for respiratory health. The score evaluates the feasibility of reaching necessary healthcare facilities, impacting the decision of **moving to Sackets Harbor**.

The primary challenge in 13685 lies in its rural nature. While the village itself is compact, surrounding areas necessitate travel for specialized care. Drive times are a significant consideration. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive pulmonary services are located in Watertown, approximately 15 miles east. This journey primarily involves navigating Route 3, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. Expect a drive time of around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

For those requiring specialized pulmonary care or emergency services, the drive to Carthage Area Hospital, roughly 30 miles south via Route 26, presents a longer commute. This route, while scenic, is primarily rural and can take up to an hour, particularly during inclement weather. These extended travel times, especially during a COPD exacerbation, can pose a significant risk.

Public **transportation** options are limited in 13685. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides some bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, with limited service to Watertown and even less to Carthage. The JCT system does offer ADA-accessible buses, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of service and potential for long wait times make public transit a less reliable option for urgent medical needs. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts the COPD Score, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Sackets Harbor is less certain. Availability can fluctuate, and wait times might be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could prove unreliable and costly. Furthermore, the driver’s familiarity with COPD patients' needs and potential emergencies is not guaranteed.

Medical **transportation** services, designed specifically for patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeNet provide non-emergency medical **transportation** and ambulance services in the region. These services are equipped to handle patients with respiratory conditions, offering trained personnel and specialized equipment. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, potentially impacting the financial burden of managing COPD.

The COPD Score also considers the location of pharmacies. While Sackets Harbor has a local pharmacy, access to a wider range of medications and specialized respiratory equipment might require a trip to Watertown. This adds another layer of complexity to **transportation** needs. The availability of oxygen and other respiratory aids at the local pharmacy is a crucial factor in the COPD Score.

The overall COPD Score for 13685 reflects the challenges of accessing **healthcare access**. The score will be impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs and unreliability of ride-sharing services. While medical **transportation** services offer a viable solution, their expense can be a significant barrier.

For individuals considering **moving to Sackets Harbor** with COPD, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and capabilities is paramount. Factors to consider include the severity of their condition, their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide **transportation**, and their financial resources to cover medical **transportation** costs.

The COPD Score is not just a numerical value; it is a reflection of the practical realities of managing a chronic respiratory illness in a rural setting. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and understanding the potential challenges of accessing medical care.

The score is influenced by the availability of home healthcare services. Having access to in-home respiratory therapists and nurses can significantly reduce the need for frequent trips to the hospital or clinic. Assessing the availability and quality of these services is crucial for the COPD Score.

The location of urgent care facilities is another factor. While Watertown has several urgent care centers, their proximity to Sackets Harbor is a consideration. The ability to quickly access urgent care for a COPD exacerbation can significantly impact outcomes.

The COPD Score is not static; it can change over time. As the individual's condition progresses, their **transportation** needs might evolve. Regular reassessment of the score and adjustments to the **transportation** plan are essential.

The COPD Score should also consider the availability of support groups and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs can provide valuable resources and support for individuals managing COPD. The ease of access to these programs can impact the overall quality of life and influence the COPD Score.

The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for individuals with COPD considering **moving to Sackets Harbor**. It allows them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and plan for their **transportation** requirements. It emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and understanding the potential challenges of accessing medical care in a rural environment. The score highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to managing COPD, considering not only medical care but also the practicalities of daily living.

The final COPD Score for 13685 is a composite of all these factors. It serves as a critical tool for individuals with COPD and underscores the necessity of careful planning and informed decision-making when considering a move to this beautiful but geographically challenging location. The score is not a condemnation, but a call for preparation.