12847, Long Lake, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12847, Long Lake, New York is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.40 percent of residents in 12847 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Long Lake (ZIP Code 12847)

Considering a move to the picturesque Adirondack community of Long Lake, New York (ZIP Code 12847)? Beyond the stunning vistas and tranquil lifestyle, it’s crucial to understand the realities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up provides a “Hypertension Score” assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. We'll dissect the available routes, drive times, and accessibility features to help you make an informed decision about your well-being in this remote yet rewarding environment.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value; it's a holistic evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. It considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical services, factoring in the specific needs of those managing hypertension. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and the potential for urgent care visits. Understanding these factors is paramount when considering a move to Long Lake.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Long Lake is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The Adirondack region is characterized by its vastness and limited public transit. Your primary routes to healthcare will involve navigating the scenic but sometimes challenging roads.

The primary route to healthcare access for Long Lake residents involves traveling south on **New York State Route 30**. This road, a vital artery, winds its way through the heart of the Adirondacks, offering breathtaking views but also demanding careful driving, especially during winter months. The closest hospital with a comprehensive cardiology department is **Adirondack Medical Center** in Saranac Lake, approximately 50 miles south. Drive time on Route 30 to Saranac Lake can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another option is to travel east on **New York State Route 28N**, which connects to Route 28. Route 28 will take you to the **Glens Falls Hospital** in Glens Falls, approximately 80 miles away. This route can take up to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond the Main Roads**

Within Long Lake itself, healthcare options are limited. The **Long Lake Health Center**, a local clinic, provides primary care services, which is crucial for regular hypertension monitoring. However, the Health Center may not have the specialized cardiology services or advanced diagnostic capabilities found in larger hospitals. This means that for specialized care, you will need to travel.

The distance to these facilities highlights a critical consideration for individuals with hypertension. The longer travel times increase the potential for delays in receiving timely care, especially during emergencies. This is a significant factor to consider when evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for Long Lake.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Long Lake are extremely limited. There is no dedicated bus service within the town. The **Adirondack Trailways** bus line provides service along Route 28, but this service is infrequent and may not align with healthcare appointments. The bus stop is located at the Long Lake Diner. This option is not ideal for individuals with hypertension, as it requires careful planning and significant travel time.

For individuals with disabilities, ADA-accessible features on Adirondack Trailways buses are available, but the limited frequency and long travel times remain a challenge. It is important to check the bus schedule for ADA accessibility.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in Long Lake. Their presence is sporadic and depends on driver availability. This is a significant drawback for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive.

Medical transport services, such as **Adirondack Ambulance Service**, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily for emergencies and are not typically used for routine appointments. The response time for an ambulance can be longer in remote areas, which is another factor to consider.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Long Lake (ZIP Code 12847) presents a mixed picture. The scenic beauty and tranquil lifestyle are undeniable, but the remoteness and limited transportation options pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Strengths:**

* Local primary care at the Long Lake Health Center.
* Emergency medical services are available.
* Access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, but limited public transportation.

**Weaknesses:**

* Long drive times to specialized cardiology services.
* Limited public transit options.
* Unreliable ride-sharing services.
* Potential for delayed access to care due to travel time and weather conditions.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension Considering Moving to Long Lake:**

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Ensure you are comfortable and capable of driving long distances, especially during inclement weather.
* **Develop a Transportation Plan:** Identify backup transportation options, such as friends, family, or pre-booked medical transport services, for appointments.
* **Establish a Relationship with a Cardiologist:** Seek to establish a relationship with a cardiologist at Adirondack Medical Center or Glens Falls Hospital before moving.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Factor the distance to healthcare facilities into your housing decisions.
* **Ensure Adequate Medication Supplies:** Plan for medication refills and consider mail-order pharmacies to avoid travel.

**Conclusion: A Calculated Decision**

Moving to Long Lake requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs, particularly if you have hypertension. While the community offers a unique lifestyle, the limited transportation options and distance to specialized medical care necessitate proactive planning. By understanding the "Hypertension Score" and taking the recommended precautions, you can make an informed decision and ensure your health and well-being in this beautiful Adirondack community. The decision to move to Long Lake is a personal one, and this assessment aims to provide a realistic perspective on the transportation and healthcare access challenges you may face.