12917, Burke, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12917, Burke, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.97 percent of residents in 12917 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 12917

Burke, New York, nestled in the northeastern reaches of the state, offers a tranquil existence, a haven from the relentless pace of city life. However, the serenity of rural living can sometimes obscure the complexities of healthcare access, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 12917, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment based on commute times, available transportation options, and potential challenges. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Burke, offering insights into navigating the healthcare system.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, considering factors crucial for managing hypertension: timely access to appointments, regular medication refills, and the ability to reach specialists. The score is built on the premise that readily available and efficient transportation directly correlates with better healthcare outcomes.

**The Road Ahead: Driving and Commuting**

For many Burke residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in larger towns like Malone and Plattsburgh, necessitating a drive. The primary artery connecting Burke to these healthcare hubs is **New York State Route 122**, which merges with **New York State Route 11** heading towards Malone. The drive to Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, a critical healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This drive is manageable, offering relatively consistent access to essential medical services.

Plattsburgh, further afield, requires a drive along **Route 122** to **Route 11**, then connecting to **Interstate 87 (The Northway)**. This journey, to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), can stretch to an hour or more, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The longer commute time presents a challenge for individuals with hypertension, potentially impacting the ability to attend appointments promptly and regularly.

The condition of the roads is also a factor. While generally well-maintained, winter weather in the Adirondack region can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare. This is a crucial consideration for those managing hypertension, where consistent medication and monitoring are vital.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 12917 are limited. The Franklin County Transportation Department (FCTD) provides demand-response service, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This service is available within Franklin County, including Burke, and can transport individuals to medical appointments. However, this system requires careful planning and scheduling, potentially limiting spontaneity and flexibility.

The FCTD vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the availability of rides can be constrained by demand, and the travel times are often longer than driving, due to multiple stops and routing. This can be a significant drawback for individuals with hypertension, who may need to attend frequent appointments or require urgent medical attention.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Burke or the surrounding rural areas. This significantly limits transportation options, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle or who are unable to drive.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available. These services are primarily used for urgent medical needs or for individuals who cannot drive themselves. However, NEMT services often require pre-authorization and may have limited availability, depending on the insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 12917 reflects a mixed picture. While the drive to Malone offers relatively convenient access to healthcare, the longer commute to Plattsburgh and the limited public transportation options pose challenges. The absence of ride-sharing services further exacerbates the situation, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

For individuals moving to Burke, understanding these transportation limitations is essential. Careful consideration should be given to the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation assistance, and the potential impact of weather conditions on travel. Planning ahead, scheduling appointments in advance, and exploring all available transportation options are crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

To enhance healthcare access for Burke residents, several strategies could be considered. Expanding the FCTD service, increasing the frequency of routes, and improving the scheduling process could make public transportation more accessible and convenient. Exploring partnerships with neighboring counties to provide regional transportation services could also be beneficial.

Advocating for the expansion of ride-sharing services into the area could significantly improve transportation options, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. Supporting initiatives that promote telehealth and remote patient monitoring could also reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, improving healthcare access for individuals with hypertension.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Living in Burke offers a unique lifestyle, but it also presents challenges in accessing healthcare. For individuals with hypertension, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. While the drive to Malone offers reasonable access to healthcare, the limited public transit and absence of ride-sharing services require careful planning and proactive management.

By understanding the available transportation options, planning ahead, and leveraging available resources, residents of ZIP Code 12917 can successfully navigate the healthcare system and effectively manage their hypertension. Those considering moving to Burke should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure they can maintain optimal health and well-being in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.