12924, Keeseville, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12924, Keeseville, New York is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.33 percent of residents in 12924 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 16.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keeseville (ZIP Code 12924)

Choosing a new home, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access. This analysis, focused on ZIP Code 12924 (Keeseville, New York), provides a "Hypertension Score" evaluating the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, particularly those crucial for managing high blood pressure. We'll examine transportation options, from driving times to public transit and ride-sharing, to paint a clear picture of the journey to healthcare. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Keeseville, ensuring informed decisions about their well-being.

The cornerstone of managing hypertension lies in regular medical check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments. Therefore, the ability to reach a doctor's office, pharmacy, and other healthcare facilities is paramount. The "Hypertension Score" will consider factors like distance, mode of transportation, and accessibility to determine a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access within and around Keeseville.

**Driving Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. In Keeseville, the primary roads dictate travel times. The Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87) serves as the major north-south artery. Driving south on I-87, residents can reach Plattsburgh, a regional hub with a greater concentration of healthcare providers, in approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive typically involves exiting the Northway at Exit 34 or 35, depending on the specific destination within Plattsburgh.

Heading north on I-87, the journey to larger hospitals in Burlington, Vermont, extends to roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. This trip necessitates crossing the border and navigating the Burlington area's traffic, adding to the overall travel time.

Within Keeseville itself, accessing local medical facilities is generally straightforward. The town's main thoroughfare, Route 9, provides direct access to local clinics and pharmacies. However, the availability of specialized care within Keeseville is limited, often necessitating travel to Plattsburgh or further afield.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Keeseville are limited, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) provides some service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly on weekends. The specific routes and their frequency can be checked through the CCPT website.

The CCPT buses may offer some level of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, including ramps or lifts for individuals with mobility challenges. However, it's crucial to confirm ADA features and schedule availability in advance, especially if relying on public transit for medical appointments. The limited service frequency could significantly impact the "Hypertension Score" for individuals reliant on public transportation.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Plattsburgh area, but their availability in Keeseville is less consistent. The distance and rural nature of the area might result in longer wait times or higher fares. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and potentially, pre-booking rides.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers, are available. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with associated costs, and the availability can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the service provider's capacity.

**Healthcare Access: The Pharmacy and Beyond**

Beyond the journey to the doctor's office, access to pharmacies is crucial for managing hypertension. Keeseville has local pharmacies that provide medication dispensing services. However, specialized medications or those requiring compounding might necessitate a trip to a larger pharmacy in Plattsburgh.

The availability of specialist care, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, is another critical factor. Keeseville itself may not have these specialists, requiring patients to travel to Plattsburgh or further afield. This travel time and distance significantly impact the "Hypertension Score," particularly for individuals requiring frequent specialist appointments.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context**

The "Hypertension Score" for Keeseville (ZIP Code 12924) reflects a mixed picture. While local healthcare facilities are accessible within the town, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care and pharmacies outside of Keeseville pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services is also inconsistent, and medical transport services add to the overall cost.

For individuals considering moving to Keeseville, a thorough evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with reliable access to a car and the ability to drive to Plattsburgh for specialist appointments will likely find the "Hypertension Score" more favorable. However, individuals reliant on public transportation or those with mobility limitations should carefully consider the limitations of the available services.

**Recommendations for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

To improve the "Hypertension Score" and enhance healthcare access in Keeseville, several initiatives could be beneficial. Increasing the frequency and expanding the routes of the CCPT, particularly on weekends, would significantly improve public transportation options. Encouraging ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area could also provide a more convenient alternative to personal vehicles.

Telehealth services offer another promising avenue for improving healthcare access. Increased availability of telehealth consultations with specialists could reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Keeseville presents a lifestyle choice with both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" highlights the importance of carefully evaluating individual needs and transportation capabilities. While local healthcare facilities are accessible, the limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care must be considered. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension while embracing the charm of Keeseville.