12143, Ravena, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12143, Ravena, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.38 percent of residents in 12143 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Albany Va Medical Center with a distance of 12.29 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12143 (Ravena, NY)**

Assessing healthcare access within ZIP code 12143, a rural area encompassing the charming village of Ravena, necessitates a deep dive into transportation options, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This score will evaluate the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities, crucial for consistent care and medication adherence. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, aiding individuals considering moving to Ravena and highlighting potential challenges for current residents.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Ravena is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the roadways, residents rely heavily on the major arteries of US Route 9W and New York State Route 143. US Route 9W provides a north-south corridor, connecting Ravena to Albany in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 143, running east-west, offers a direct route to the village of Coeymans and links to Interstate 87, a major north-south highway.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are generally located within Ravena itself, ensuring quick access for routine appointments and medication refills. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, often necessitates travel to Albany or surrounding areas. The Albany Medical Center, a comprehensive healthcare provider, is accessible via a 30-45 minute drive, mainly via US Route 9W. This drive time, while manageable, can be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

Public transportation options in Ravena are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles. The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) operates a bus route, the #353, which serves the Ravena area. This route primarily connects Ravena to Albany, with limited frequency, especially during evenings and weekends. The route's schedule and frequency may not be sufficient for timely access to medical appointments, particularly for those requiring regular check-ups or emergency care.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the #353 bus is a crucial consideration. CDTA strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. However, the availability of accessible buses on every run and the physical accessibility of bus stops throughout the route can vary. This variability can pose a significant barrier for individuals with mobility impairments, making healthcare access more challenging.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Albany area, including Ravena. However, their availability and reliability in a rural setting can be unpredictable. Surge pricing, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, can make ride-sharing an expensive option, particularly for those on fixed incomes. The availability of drivers in Ravena may also be limited, potentially resulting in longer wait times or difficulty securing a ride, especially for urgent medical needs.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with limited mobility or medical conditions that prevent them from driving or using public transit. Several medical transport providers operate in the Albany area, including ambulance services for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, dialysis treatments, and other healthcare-related needs.

The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the service provider, the distance traveled, and the type of service required. While some insurance plans cover NEMT services, others may not, potentially creating a financial burden for patients. The need to pre-arrange medical transportation, often with advance notice, can also be a challenge, particularly for individuals experiencing unexpected health issues.

For individuals considering moving to Ravena, the transportation landscape for healthcare access should be a primary consideration. While the village offers some local healthcare options, access to specialized care often requires travel to Albany or surrounding areas. The limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of personal transportation needs.

The overall Hypertension Score for Ravena, NY (ZIP code 12143) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score will be influenced by drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing challenges, and the availability of medical transportation services. The score will also consider the affordability and accessibility of these transportation options, particularly for individuals managing hypertension.

The Hypertension Score will be a valuable tool for residents and prospective movers. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the current transportation infrastructure and serve as a guide for individuals seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare access. The score will underscore the importance of personal vehicles and the need for improvements in public transit and ride-sharing options to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents of Ravena.

In conclusion, the ability to readily access healthcare is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. The transportation landscape in Ravena, NY, presents both opportunities and challenges. While drive times to some facilities are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations. Understanding these factors is essential for assessing the overall Hypertension Score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.