12910, Altona, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12910, Altona, New York is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.02 percent of residents in 12910 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 15.13 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Altona, NY (ZIP Code 12910)

The journey to manage hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, is significantly impacted by the ease with which individuals can access healthcare. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 12910 (Altona, NY), assesses the challenges and opportunities surrounding transportation and healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of obtaining necessary medical care. This score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Altona.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Altona is the Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route for private **transportation** involves a drive along US Route 9, a major north-south artery. Traffic flow on Route 9 is generally moderate, but during peak commuting hours or inclement weather, drive times can fluctuate. Expect a typical drive time of around 20-30 minutes under normal conditions. Another option is taking Route 374, which can add a few minutes to the journey.

For those without personal vehicles, public **transportation** options are limited. The Clinton County Public Transit (CCPT) operates a fixed-route bus system, though its service within Altona is infrequent. Residents may need to rely on a combination of routes or potentially arrange for a ride to a central hub. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features can be found on the CCPT website. The availability of reliable public transit is a crucial factor in the Hypertension Score, as it directly affects **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Altona is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be longer than in more populated areas. This variable nature adds complexity to the **transportation** equation, potentially creating barriers to timely medical appointments and follow-up care. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a key consideration in evaluating the overall Hypertension Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies in the region provide this service, including specialized medical transport providers. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. The availability and affordability of medical **transportation** are essential elements in determining the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack other **transportation** options.

The geographic isolation of Altona, coupled with the limited **transportation** infrastructure, presents challenges to **healthcare access**. The distance to CVPH in Plattsburgh necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, infrequent public transit, or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services. This situation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, which can negatively impact the management of hypertension.

The Hypertension Score considers the cumulative effect of these factors. It weighs the drive times, the frequency and reliability of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical **transportation** options. The score also considers the presence of any specific programs or initiatives designed to improve **healthcare access** for residents of Altona.

For example, if the CCPT offers a dedicated route to CVPH with frequent service and ADA-compliant vehicles, this would positively influence the score. Conversely, if ride-sharing services are consistently unavailable or if medical **transportation** is prohibitively expensive, the score would be negatively affected. The score is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the real-world challenges and opportunities faced by residents of Altona in their quest to manage their hypertension.

When considering **moving to Altona**, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and their ability to access healthcare. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic conditions should prioritize locations with easy access to medical care. This means considering the availability of reliable **transportation** options, whether it's a personal vehicle, public transit, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation**.

The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the **healthcare access** landscape in Altona. It provides a framework for understanding the complexities of **transportation** and its impact on health outcomes. By carefully analyzing the factors influencing the score, residents and potential newcomers can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and their ability to thrive in this community.

The absence of a local clinic in Altona necessitates a journey to Plattsburgh for most medical needs. US Route 9, while the most direct route, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Alternate routes, such as Route 374, may offer a slightly different driving experience. However, the primary challenge remains the distance and the reliance on personal vehicles or less-frequent public **transportation**.

The CCPT's route structure and schedule are crucial. The frequency of service, the proximity of bus stops to residential areas, and the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles all contribute to the overall accessibility of public **transportation**. Residents need to be aware of the CCPT's routes and schedules to effectively utilize this option.

Ride-sharing services can offer a convenient alternative, but their availability in Altona is not guaranteed. Residents should not rely solely on ride-sharing for essential medical appointments. The potential for longer wait times and higher costs must be considered.

Medical **transportation** services are a vital resource, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. These services can provide door-to-door **transportation**, ensuring that patients can reach their medical appointments safely and efficiently. The cost and availability of these services are essential factors in assessing the overall **healthcare access**.

The Hypertension Score, therefore, becomes a multifaceted assessment. It considers the average drive times on US Route 9 and Route 374, the frequency and reliability of CCPT services, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost and accessibility of medical **transportation** services. This comprehensive approach provides a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access** in Altona.

When considering **moving to Altona**, prospective residents must carefully assess their **transportation** needs and their ability to manage their hypertension. The distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing services are all crucial factors. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the overall **healthcare access** landscape and making informed decisions about one's health and well-being in this community.