12952, Lyon Mountain, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12952, Lyon Mountain, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

15.00 percent of residents in 12952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 20.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lyon Mountain (ZIP Code 12952)

The picturesque village of Lyon Mountain, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. For residents managing hypertension, the ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is paramount. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 12952, evaluating the ease and potential difficulties of commuting to necessary healthcare services. The ultimate goal is to provide prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Lyon Mountain, with a clear understanding of their healthcare transportation options.

The foundation of our assessment rests on the understanding that consistent and timely access to medical care is critical for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency situations necessitate reliable transportation. Therefore, our analysis will consider various modes of transportation, their accessibility, and the potential impact on the overall health and well-being of individuals living with hypertension.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of Lyon Mountain are Route 374 and Route 192. Route 374, a winding two-lane road, connects Lyon Mountain to the larger towns of Plattsburgh and Malone. Route 192 provides a more direct, albeit still rural, route to the north. Driving times are heavily influenced by weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Adirondack winters. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility can significantly extend travel times and pose safety risks.

Driving to the nearest hospital, the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes under ideal conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 374, encountering potential traffic at intersections, and the possibility of encountering wildlife. A similar drive to Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, using Route 374 and Route 11, takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times are crucial considerations for individuals with hypertension, as delayed access to care can have serious consequences.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Lyon Mountain are extremely limited. The local transit authority, Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT), offers a demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, and availability can be restricted. The service operates within Clinton County, potentially providing access to Plattsburgh and its healthcare facilities. However, the schedule is limited, and the service is not designed for frequent, on-demand trips.

Furthermore, the CCPT vehicles may have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts, but these features do not guarantee immediate access. Booking in advance is essential, and the limited frequency of service can be a significant barrier for individuals requiring regular medical appointments. The reliance on scheduled rides can be particularly challenging for those with unpredictable health needs. This limited public transportation severely impacts healthcare access for residents of Lyon Mountain.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Lyon Mountain is sporadic. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is, therefore, unreliable. The long wait times, potential surge pricing, and the uncertainty of availability make ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for individuals managing hypertension.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may be available in the region. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have limited coverage areas. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. Researching specific medical transportation providers, such as transportation to healthcare, in the area is crucial.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

The challenges in healthcare access in Lyon Mountain are multi-faceted. The rural location, coupled with limited transportation options, creates significant hurdles for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public transportation, and the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing all contribute to the difficulty of accessing timely and consistent medical care.

For those considering moving to Lyon Mountain, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the willingness to navigate potentially challenging road conditions are all critical considerations. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations must carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare services in the area.

**The "Hypertension Score" Implications:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Lyon Mountain (ZIP code 12952) reflects a moderate to high level of difficulty in accessing healthcare. The long drive times, the limited public transportation, and the unreliable nature of ride-sharing services contribute to this score. The score is particularly concerning for individuals with hypertension, as they require regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care.

The implications of this score are significant. Residents with hypertension may experience delays in accessing care, potentially leading to uncontrolled blood pressure and an increased risk of complications. The stress of navigating transportation challenges can also exacerbate hypertension symptoms.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Lyon Mountain, a comprehensive healthcare plan is essential. This plan should include:

* **A reliable personal vehicle:** This is the most dependable mode of transportation for accessing healthcare services.
* **A detailed understanding of local healthcare providers:** Knowing the location, services offered, and appointment availability of local doctors and specialists is crucial.
* **A contingency plan for emergency situations:** Knowing the location of the nearest hospital and having a plan for transportation in case of an emergency is essential.
* **Exploration of telehealth options:** Utilizing telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication refills can reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **A willingness to advocate for improved transportation options:** Supporting initiatives that aim to improve public transportation or expand ride-sharing services can benefit the entire community.

The "Hypertension Score" for Lyon Mountain highlights the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration for individuals managing hypertension. While the beauty and tranquility of the Adirondacks are undeniable, the challenges of healthcare access must be carefully weighed. By understanding the transportation landscape and developing a comprehensive healthcare plan, residents can mitigate the risks and ensure they receive the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The integration of transportation and healthcare access is key for moving to Lyon Mountain.