12148, Rexford, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12148, Rexford, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.97 percent of residents in 12148 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ellis Hospital with a distance of 3.84 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rexford, NY (ZIP Code 12148)

The quiet charm of Rexford, New York, nestled in the scenic Mohawk Valley, offers a desirable quality of life. However, for individuals managing hypertension, a critical factor in their daily existence is readily available healthcare. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 12148, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities in navigating the local healthcare landscape, crucial for those considering moving to Rexford or already residing here.

The core of the Hypertension Score hinges on the ease with which residents can reach healthcare providers, particularly those specializing in cardiology and internal medicine. This encompasses the time and effort required to attend appointments, access medications, and participate in essential monitoring. The availability of diverse transportation options, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, directly influences this score.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Map for Rexford Residents**

For many Rexford residents, the primary mode of transportation is a personal vehicle. The major arteries serving the area are key to understanding healthcare access. Route 146, a north-south thoroughfare, provides direct access to the neighboring town of Clifton Park, home to several medical facilities. The drive time to these facilities, such as the Community Care Physicians offices and Saratoga Hospital's Clifton Park campus, typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Interstate 87, also known as the Adirondack Northway, is another critical route. While offering faster travel, it requires navigating on-ramps and off-ramps, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those experiencing a hypertensive episode. The Northway provides access to larger medical centers in Albany, such as Albany Medical Center, which may be necessary for specialized care. Drive times to Albany can vary from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Local roads like Riverview Road and Grooms Road offer alternative routes, though they often involve slower speeds and potential for traffic congestion during peak hours. Careful consideration of these routes is essential when planning appointments, especially during inclement weather. The ease of parking at these facilities also impacts the Hypertension Score; ample, accessible parking is crucial.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) provides public transit services in the Rexford area. While the network offers a degree of healthcare access, its impact on the Hypertension Score is tempered by limitations. Several bus routes, including the #520 and #522, serve the area, connecting Rexford to nearby towns like Clifton Park and Schenectady.

However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals requiring regular appointments or needing immediate medical attention. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the CDTA buses is an important factor, with ramps and other features designed to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the time required to travel by bus, often longer than driving, may increase the stress associated with medical appointments, indirectly impacting blood pressure.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rexford area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services can be particularly useful for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive due to health reasons. However, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, potentially impacting healthcare access. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can add to the financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. These services often include door-to-door service and can be invaluable for individuals managing hypertension. The cost and availability of these services are factors in the Hypertension Score, as they can significantly impact the ease with which individuals can access healthcare.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Holistic View**

The Hypertension Score for Rexford, NY (12148) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to healthcare facilities in Clifton Park and the availability of ride-sharing services offer advantages. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for fluctuating costs associated with ride-sharing services and medical transport introduce challenges.

The score is also influenced by the availability of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services within the community. The presence of local pharmacies offering medication delivery services, for example, can improve the score by enhancing convenience and reducing the need for travel.

**Considerations for Moving to Rexford**

For individuals considering moving to Rexford, a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape is crucial. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the associated costs is essential. Those with hypertension should prioritize locations with convenient access to medical facilities, reliable transportation, and readily available pharmacies.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The Hypertension Score for Rexford, NY (12148) highlights the importance of considering transportation and healthcare access when evaluating a community. While Rexford offers a desirable quality of life, residents managing hypertension must carefully assess the available options for reaching healthcare providers. Continuous efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability of medical transport will enhance the Hypertension Score and improve the overall well-being of the community. By understanding the nuances of transportation and healthcare access, residents can make informed decisions and proactively manage their health.