12944, Keeseville, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12944, Keeseville, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.54 percent of residents in 12944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 14.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keeseville (ZIP Code 12944)

Considering a move to Keeseville, New York (ZIP code 12944)? This charming Adirondack community offers a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town living. However, before you pack your bags, especially if you or a loved one manages hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to facilitate healthcare appointments and medication refills.

The ability to efficiently access healthcare is crucial for managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication adherence. This score considers the availability and accessibility of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, to key healthcare providers within and around Keeseville. This analysis will help prospective residents evaluate the practicality of maintaining their health regimen in this location.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

Keeseville's location, nestled amidst the Adirondack Mountains, influences its transportation infrastructure. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are the Northway (Interstate 87), Route 9, and Route 22. The proximity to these routes significantly impacts drive times to healthcare facilities.

For routine appointments and pharmacy visits, residents can access the Keeseville Family Health Center, located within the town. Drive times within Keeseville are generally short, often under 10 minutes. However, for specialized care, the journey becomes more complex.

The nearest major healthcare hub is the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles north. Driving via the Northway (I-87) offers the most direct route, with drive times typically ranging from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Route 9 provides an alternative, albeit slower, route, averaging 35 to 50 minutes.

Traveling south to healthcare facilities in the Lake Placid area, such as Adirondack Health, requires navigating Route 9N and Route 73. This drive, approximately 30 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, influenced by winding roads and seasonal traffic, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Keeseville are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) operates a fixed-route service. However, this service primarily focuses on connecting Plattsburgh and surrounding towns.

The CCPT does not offer a direct, frequent route to Keeseville. Residents would likely need to rely on a combination of routes, involving transfers, to access healthcare facilities in Plattsburgh. This could significantly increase travel time, potentially exceeding an hour, making it less practical for regular appointments.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. CCPT offers ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other accommodations. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for transfers can still pose challenges.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, potentially offering a viable transportation option. However, their availability in Keeseville is less consistent. Securing a ride might require advanced planning and could be subject to surge pricing, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide a more reliable option. Companies such as MedTrans Corporation and Adirondack Medical Transport offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may involve a cost, but they provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably.

**Pharmacy Access: A Vital Component**

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is a crucial aspect of hypertension management. Keeseville has a local pharmacy, providing convenient access to medications. However, for specialized medications or a wider selection, residents may need to travel to pharmacies in Plattsburgh. Drive times, as previously mentioned, will dictate the ease of access.

**Hypertension Score: Assessing the Landscape**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, a "Hypertension Score" for Keeseville (ZIP code 12944) would reflect a moderate level of healthcare access. While the town offers local healthcare options and pharmacy access, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and the limitations of public transit present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides alternative solutions, but they may involve additional costs and require advance planning. Prospective residents with hypertension should carefully consider these factors when evaluating the practicality of moving to Keeseville.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to Keeseville should prioritize the following:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate the reliability of your vehicle and your ability to drive, especially during inclement weather.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research and establish contact with medical transportation providers in the area.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time, considering potential traffic delays.
* **Consider Medication Management:** Explore options for mail-order prescriptions or medication delivery services to minimize pharmacy trips.
* **Network with Local Healthcare Providers:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician in Keeseville to facilitate referrals and coordinate care.

By carefully considering these factors and utilizing available resources, residents with hypertension can successfully manage their health while enjoying the benefits of living in the beautiful community of Keeseville. The key to successful healthcare access is proactive planning and utilizing the available transportation options to ensure timely and consistent medical care.