10928, Highland Falls, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 10928, Highland Falls, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 10928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Highland Falls (ZIP Code 10928)

The crisp air of the Hudson Highlands, the historic charm of West Point, and the quietude of Highland Falls – these are the alluring elements that draw people to ZIP Code 10928. But beyond the scenic beauty lies a critical consideration for residents, particularly those managing hypertension: healthcare access. This write-up explores the transportation landscape and its impact on accessing medical care, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential services.

For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical appointments, medication refills, and diagnostic tests is paramount. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure efficiently and reliably directly influences health outcomes. This analysis delves into the specific transportation options available within and around Highland Falls, weighing their advantages and disadvantages to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Highland Falls is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The town is relatively compact, but accessing specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. The major thoroughfare is **Route 9W**, which winds its way through the heart of Highland Falls, offering direct access to local businesses and connecting to neighboring towns. However, Route 9W can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, potentially delaying access to critical appointments.

Further afield, **Interstate 87 (the New York State Thruway)** provides a faster route to destinations south, including the bustling medical centers of New York City. The drive to these facilities, however, can be lengthy, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Northbound, the Thruway leads to hospitals in Albany, a journey of approximately 2 hours.

**Route 218** provides a scenic but winding alternative, connecting Highland Falls to the US Military Academy at West Point and offering access to the Hudson River. While beautiful, this route is not ideal for those seeking rapid transport to medical facilities due to its narrow lanes and potential for delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Highland Falls are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Metro-North Railroad** offers service from the nearby Garrison station, providing access to New York City. However, the station is located approximately 10-15 minutes away from Highland Falls by car, adding an extra layer of complexity for those reliant on public transit.

The **Transport of Rockland (TOR)** bus system offers limited service within the county, but routes directly serving Highland Falls are infrequent and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, and it is essential to confirm the specific features of each route before relying on public transit.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for residents who are elderly, disabled, or unable to drive. The reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-sharing services can create barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative to driving. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden for individuals on fixed incomes, further impacting their ability to access healthcare.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance with medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While offering a valuable service, these options can be costly, and the availability of providers may be limited in the Highland Falls area.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Medicaid Transportation:** Medicaid recipients may have access to non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Ambulette Services:** Ambulettes provide transportation for patients who can sit upright but need assistance.
* **Wheelchair-Accessible Services:** Specialized services are available for individuals requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Hypertension Score" for Highland Falls reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potentially costly ride-sharing and medical transport services create a mixed landscape.

For those with access to a car, healthcare access is generally manageable, though travel times to specialized care facilities can be significant. However, for those without a vehicle, the challenges are amplified. The limited public transit, coupled with the potential expense of ride-sharing and medical transport, can create significant barriers to accessing timely and consistent medical care.

**Moving to Highland Falls: A Healthcare Consideration**

Individuals considering moving to Highland Falls should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. Those managing hypertension or other chronic conditions should prioritize proximity to healthcare providers or assess the feasibility of utilizing available transportation services.

The availability of telehealth services and the potential for home healthcare visits can mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, these options may not fully replace the need for in-person appointments, especially for diagnostic testing or specialized treatments.

**Conclusion: A Score Reflecting the Reality**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 10928, considering the transportation landscape, would likely fall in the moderate range. While driving offers relatively easy access to local healthcare and regional centers, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport create challenges for some residents.

The score highlights the importance of careful planning for individuals managing hypertension and other chronic conditions. Understanding the transportation options, their limitations, and their associated costs is crucial for ensuring consistent access to the medical care necessary for maintaining optimal health and well-being in the beautiful, yet transportation-challenged, community of Highland Falls.