12929, Dannemora, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12929, Dannemora, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.83 percent of residents in 12929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 12.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dannemora (ZIP Code 12929)

Dannemora, New York, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a “Hypertension Score” write-up, delves into the complexities of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 12929, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Dannemora. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of how readily available and convenient these options are, specifically concerning appointments for hypertension management.

The foundation of this score hinges on the understanding that consistent healthcare access is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist visits are crucial. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact the ability to maintain these essential appointments. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, assigning a score based on their accessibility and suitability for individuals with hypertension.

**Driving Times: The Arteries of Dannemora**

For those with personal vehicles, the primary routes for healthcare access in Dannemora involve navigating the local road network. The most direct route to Plattsburgh, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities, is generally via **NY-374** and then **US-9**. Travel time to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a major healthcare provider, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Another option involves taking **NY-374** and then **NY-22**, offering a slightly longer route, but potentially providing alternative access points. Driving to smaller clinics and medical offices within the immediate vicinity of Dannemora, like the Clinton County Health Department clinic, is usually a quick trip, often taking less than 10 minutes. However, the limited scope of services available locally necessitates travel to Plattsburgh for specialized care, including cardiology appointments and comprehensive hypertension management.

The reliability of these driving times is affected by the harsh Adirondack winters. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those taking medications that can affect driving abilities. Therefore, individuals considering moving to Dannemora should factor in the potential for seasonal delays when assessing their ability to access healthcare.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Terrain**

Public transportation options in and around Dannemora are limited. The Clinton County Public Transportation system (CCPT) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. The primary route relevant to healthcare access is the one connecting Dannemora to Plattsburgh. However, the bus schedule may not align with the needs of medical appointments, potentially requiring long wait times or necessitating alternative transportation arrangements.

The CCPT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for extended travel times can still pose challenges for those with hypertension, particularly if they experience fatigue or other symptoms related to their condition.

The availability of public transit is a significant consideration for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive due to health reasons. The limited options in Dannemora highlight the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions for healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Dannemora is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not always a dependable solution.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedTrans or local ambulance services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have other health concerns. However, medical transport services can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less convenient for urgent or unplanned medical needs.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access. These expenses can add significantly to the overall cost of managing hypertension, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

**Hypertension Score Considerations**

The "Hypertension Score" for Dannemora, ZIP Code 12929, would reflect the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While Plattsburgh is relatively close, seasonal weather conditions can impact travel times.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. Infrequent service and potential scheduling conflicts pose challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable. Availability is inconsistent, and wait times can be unpredictable.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Offers specialized services, but cost and advance booking are factors.

**Overall, the score would be moderate, with a bias towards challenges. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive alternative transportation services present obstacles to consistent and convenient healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. Those considering moving to Dannemora should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.**

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Dannemora requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing the frequency and reliability of public transportation, particularly routes connecting to Plattsburgh, would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to ensure more consistent service availability could also be considered. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those who qualify could help bridge the gap in transportation options.

Finally, the provision of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with hypertension in Dannemora. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management, ultimately improving the quality of life for those managing their condition. Careful planning and consideration of transportation needs are essential for a successful move to Dannemora.