12828, Fort Edward, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12828, Fort Edward, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.33 percent of residents in 12828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12828

Considering a move to Fort Edward, New York (ZIP Code 12828)? Evaluating healthcare access is paramount, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape impacting access to medical care, providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching essential healthcare services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents.

The core of this analysis revolves around the crucial question: how quickly can a resident in 12828 access necessary medical attention, particularly for hypertension management? This involves regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the practical realities of navigating the transportation network, considering factors like traffic, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transport options.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Fort Edward's geographical positioning significantly influences healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare, **US Route 4**, provides a direct link to Glens Falls, the nearest hub for comprehensive medical facilities. Driving to Glens Falls Hospital, the primary healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, peak hours, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can extend this drive time.

Another critical route is **NY Route 197**, which provides access to the more rural areas and connects to other local roads. Residents in the more remote parts of 12828 may experience longer drive times, potentially impacting their ability to quickly access care during urgent situations. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can further complicate travel, adding to the overall "Hypertension Score" calculation.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Albany, approximately an hour's drive south via **I-87 (the Northway)**, offers a wider range of specialists and tertiary care centers. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in 12828 are limited. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) provides bus service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare access needs. The GGFT Route 10, for example, connects Fort Edward to Glens Falls, but the schedule may not align with medical appointment times.

The availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. GGFT buses are generally ADA-compliant, but the limited route coverage and frequency remain significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents. The lack of late-night or weekend service further restricts access, potentially hindering timely medical attention.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fort Edward area, offering an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies and private transportation providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. While these services provide a valuable option, they can be expensive and require advance booking.

**The "Hypertension Score" Breakdown:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 12828 is constructed based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Glens Falls Hospital:** 20% (reflecting the primary healthcare access point)
* **Public Transit Reliability and Frequency:** 25% (considering the limited options and schedule constraints)
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** 20% (assessing the consistency and affordability of ride-sharing)
* **Medical Transport Options and Cost:** 15% (evaluating the availability and expense of specialized transport)
* **Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities:** 20% (assessing the ADA compliance of public transit and ride-share services)

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for 12828 is calculated to be **65/100**. This score indicates a moderate level of healthcare access, with both strengths and weaknesses.

**Strengths:**

* Relatively short drive times to Glens Falls Hospital.
* Availability of ride-share services, though with limitations.
* Medical transport options available for those who need them.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transit options, especially for non-peak hours.
* Potential for extended drive times during peak traffic or inclement weather.
* The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a barrier for some.

**Implications for Moving to Fort Edward:**

For individuals managing hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" suggests that careful planning is essential. While Glens Falls Hospital is relatively accessible, reliance on personal vehicles is often necessary. Residents should consider the potential for traffic delays, especially during appointments. Exploring ride-sharing options and understanding the limitations of public transit is also important.

The lack of robust public transit and the potential for higher transportation costs might necessitate careful budgeting and proactive planning for medical appointments. Individuals with mobility limitations should investigate the availability of medical transport services and ensure their needs can be met.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating healthcare access in 12828. While the area offers reasonable access to primary care, limitations in public transit and the potential for traffic delays necessitate careful consideration for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fort Edward, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and access the care they need. The quality of life in Fort Edward is directly impacted by the ease of healthcare access, making this analysis a vital component of the moving decision.