12916, Brushton, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12916, Brushton, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.45 percent of residents in 12916 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Brushton, NY (ZIP Code 12916)

Considering a move to Brushton, New York (ZIP code 12916), and concerned about managing hypertension? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessing healthcare access, focusing on transportation options. Your ability to reach medical appointments is crucial for effective hypertension management. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of your healthcare journey.

Brushton, a rural community, presents unique transportation challenges. While the area boasts natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere, healthcare access requires careful consideration. This assessment delves into the practicalities of getting to your appointments, weighing the pros and cons of each transportation mode. The goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your health and well-being while moving to Brushton.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Brushton is the automobile. Primary roads include State Route 11, a major north-south artery connecting the area to larger towns and cities. State Route 195 offers east-west passage. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience seasonal weather-related delays, particularly during winter.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest hospital, Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 11. Specialized clinics and physician offices are often located in Malone or further afield, potentially increasing drive times. Traffic is typically light, but weather conditions can significantly impact travel times.

For residents without personal vehicles, or those seeking to avoid driving, alternative transportation options become paramount. The ability to navigate these roads and reach your appointments is a direct reflection of your healthcare access. This score will weigh the reliability and convenience of each mode.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Brushton is limited. Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation operates a dial-a-ride service, but its availability and frequency are restricted. This service requires advance booking and may have limited operating hours, potentially hindering access to time-sensitive medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. While the dial-a-ride service aims to provide accessible transportation, its ability to accommodate all needs requires confirmation. Confirming ADA features and availability with the Franklin County Public Transportation is essential before relying on this service.

Public transit, while offering a potential lifeline, often presents challenges in rural areas. The success of managing hypertension hinges on consistent access to care. The limited nature of public transit in Brushton necessitates exploring alternative options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Brushton. The sparse population and geographic isolation make it difficult for these services to operate profitably. This lack of ride-share options significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may involve fees. They are often tailored to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport.

Companies like Adirondack Medical Transportation and First Transit are potential options. However, availability and coverage areas vary. Researching and confirming service availability, pricing, and insurance coverage is vital before relying on medical transport. This underscores the importance of proactive planning for healthcare needs.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score is calculated based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities receive higher scores.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Reliable and frequent public transit services increase the score.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The presence of ride-share services boosts the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and affordability of medical transport services contribute positively.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options is essential.

A higher score indicates better healthcare access. A lower score highlights potential challenges and the need for careful planning. This score is not a definitive judgment but rather a guide to aid your decision-making process.

**Score Breakdown for Brushton (12916):**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Drive times to the nearest hospital are reasonable, but longer trips to specialized clinics are common.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The dial-a-ride service offers a basic level of service, but its limitations impact the score.
* **Ride-Share:** Unavailable. The absence of ride-share services significantly lowers the score.
* **Medical Transport:** Potentially available. Several companies offer medical transport, but availability and cost vary.
* **ADA Accessibility:** Requires verification. Confirming ADA features with the dial-a-ride service is crucial.

**Overall Hypertension Score for Brushton (12916):**

The overall Hypertension Score for Brushton is moderate. While drive times to the nearest hospital are manageable, the lack of ride-share services and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. Reliance on personal vehicles or careful planning for medical transport is essential.

**Recommendations for Managing Hypertension in Brushton:**

1. **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Secure a primary care physician in advance. This ensures continuity of care and facilitates referrals to specialists.
2. **Explore Medical Transport:** Research and identify reliable medical transport services. Obtain quotes and understand insurance coverage.
3. **Plan Appointments Strategically:** Schedule appointments to minimize travel time. Consider grouping appointments to reduce the number of trips.
4. **Maintain Your Vehicle:** Ensure your vehicle is in good working order. Regular maintenance is crucial, especially during winter.
5. **Consider Telehealth Options:** Explore telehealth options for routine check-ups and consultations. This can reduce the need for travel.
6. **Build a Support Network:** Develop a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can assist with transportation to medical appointments.

**Conclusion: Moving to Brushton and Healthcare Access:**

Moving to Brushton presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle, the limited transportation options require careful planning. By understanding the transportation landscape, proactively researching available services, and building a support network, you can successfully manage your hypertension and maintain your health while enjoying the benefits of living in Brushton. This Hypertension Score is designed to guide you through this process, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare and your future in this beautiful corner of New York.