12934, Ellenburg Center, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12934, Ellenburg Center, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.28 percent of residents in 12934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 19.76 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Ellenburg Center (ZIP Code 12934)**

Ellenburg Center, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The Hypertension Score, a metric reflecting the ease of reaching medical care for residents managing hypertension, considers transportation infrastructure, travel times, and available options. This analysis focuses on the practicalities of accessing healthcare within and from ZIP Code 12934, crucial for residents seeking to manage their health.

The primary challenge for residents in Ellenburg Center lies in its rural setting. The sparse population and vast distances between towns influence transportation options. Driving is the dominant mode, relying heavily on state routes and county roads. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services may be inconsistent. This reliance on personal vehicles can pose difficulties for those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive.

The central question is: how easily can someone in Ellenburg Center reach a doctor, clinic, or pharmacy to manage hypertension? The answer is a complex equation of distance, road conditions, and available transport.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

The main arterial route for healthcare access is NY-190, which snakes through the area. Traveling south on NY-190 can lead to Plattsburgh, the nearest city with significant healthcare resources. A drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a major healthcare provider, averages about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.

Alternatively, heading north on NY-190 offers access to smaller clinics and pharmacies in towns like Chazy, which is a shorter drive of around 15 to 20 minutes. This option provides a quicker route for routine checkups or medication refills.

Other roads, such as County Route 23 and County Route 24, provide access to local healthcare facilities. However, these roads are often less well-maintained, especially during winter, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents. The condition of these roads directly impacts the Hypertension Score.

The drive times are crucial. The quicker the access, the higher the score. A shorter commute reduces the stress associated with managing hypertension, improving the patient’s ability to adhere to medical advice. Long drives can be a significant barrier, especially for those with limited mobility or chronic conditions.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transit in Ellenburg Center is extremely limited. The Clinton County Public Transportation system (CCPT) operates some routes, but these are often infrequent and may not directly serve Ellenburg Center. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Hypertension Score, as it offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles.

The CCPT's routes are subject to change, so checking their website for the most up-to-date information is vital. ADA-accessible vehicles are available on some routes, offering a crucial service for those with mobility challenges. However, the limited frequency and routes may make public transit impractical for many residents.

The lack of robust public transit negatively impacts the Hypertension Score. It reduces healthcare access for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The absence of a reliable public transit system underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Ellenburg Center is inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver presence and demand. This unpredictability makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergencies. However, these services are not designed for routine appointments. The cost and limited availability of medical transport can further restrict healthcare access.

The inconsistent presence of ride-sharing and the specialized nature of medical transport lower the Hypertension Score. These services are not a dependable solution for the average resident needing regular healthcare.

**Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation limitations in Ellenburg Center directly impact healthcare access for residents managing hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the inconsistent ride-sharing options create barriers to timely and consistent medical care.

These challenges can lead to delayed appointments, missed medication refills, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. This, in turn, can negatively affect blood pressure control, increasing the risk of complications associated with hypertension.

The Hypertension Score reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in this setting. The score is influenced by the distance to healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

**Considerations for Moving to Ellenburg Center**

For individuals considering moving to Ellenburg Center, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Those with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to drive, the availability of support networks, and the potential for alternative transportation options.

The ability to manage hypertension effectively depends on consistent access to medical care. Prospective residents should factor in the travel times to healthcare providers, the availability of pharmacies, and the potential need for assistance with transportation.

The Hypertension Score is a crucial consideration for those seeking a healthy lifestyle in Ellenburg Center. It highlights the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration of healthcare access when making a move.

**Conclusion**

The Hypertension Score for Ellenburg Center (ZIP Code 12934) is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the inconsistent ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access. Improving the Hypertension Score requires addressing these transportation challenges, potentially through expanded public transit, ride-sharing incentives, or community-based transportation programs. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and prospective residents alike, ensuring the ability to manage hypertension effectively in this unique rural environment.