12957, Moira, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12957, Moira, New York is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.94 percent of residents in 12957 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moira, NY (ZIP Code 12957)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Moira, New York (ZIP Code 12957) offer a bucolic charm, attracting those seeking respite from urban hustle. However, the allure of small-town living necessitates a thorough understanding of local resources, especially when considering **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the nuances of **transportation** options for residents managing hypertension, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment to aid in informed decisions about **moving to Moira**.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent medical attention. Regular check-ups, medication management, and potential emergency care are crucial. This analysis considers the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers from various points within 12957, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the accessibility landscape for those managing this chronic condition.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Moira**

Moira's primary access routes are State Route 11 and County Route 5. These roads, while scenic, can present challenges. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic, weather conditions, and the distance from a patient's residence.

The nearest hospital, Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, is approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 11. This drive is generally straightforward, but winter weather can significantly extend travel times. Snow and ice are frequent occurrences, requiring careful driving and potentially delaying appointments. The presence of a hospital is a significant advantage, but the drive time must be factored into a patient's daily routine.

Specialist appointments often necessitate travel to larger cities. Plattsburgh, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away via Route 11, offers a wider range of specialists and medical services. The drive to Plattsburgh is manageable, but the increased travel time requires careful planning. Consider the potential for traffic, especially during peak hours or on weekends.

Syracuse, with its renowned medical centers, is a more significant undertaking. The journey, approximately three and a half hours via Route 11 and I-81, demands a full day commitment. This extended travel time necessitates careful consideration for those with frequent medical needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Moira are limited. Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation operates a demand-response service, but it is not a fixed-route system. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, and availability is dependent on demand and operational capacity.

The service is theoretically ADA-accessible, meaning vehicles are equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the reliability and efficiency of this service for regular medical appointments require careful scrutiny. The need to schedule rides, potential wait times, and limited service hours can pose challenges for those managing hypertension.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. Reliance on family, friends, or medical transportation services becomes crucial.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not consistently available in Moira. Their presence is sporadic, and availability cannot be guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance for individuals with mobility challenges.

However, NEMT services often require pre-booking and can be expensive. The cost of transportation, coupled with potential wait times, must be factored into the overall cost of healthcare access. Researching and comparing NEMT providers is crucial to finding the most suitable and affordable option.

**Specific Medical Transport Providers in the Area:**

* **Ambulance and Medical Transportation Services:** Provides medical transportation services in the area.
* **Care Ride:** A medical transport service that provides transportation to medical appointments.

**Hypertension Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the "Hypertension Score" for Moira, NY (12957) can be assessed as follows:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. The proximity to Alice Hyde Medical Center is a positive factor. However, longer drives to specialists and major medical centers in Plattsburgh and Syracuse require careful planning.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The demand-response system offers some assistance, but its reliability and efficiency for regular medical appointments are questionable.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Unreliable. The sporadic availability of ride-sharing services makes them an unsuitable option for consistent healthcare access.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but potentially expensive. NEMT services provide a vital lifeline, but costs and pre-booking requirements must be considered.

**Overall Score: Moderate.**

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Moira with Hypertension:**

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** If you drive, ensure your vehicle is reliable and suitable for winter conditions. Factor in travel times to appointments and potential delays.
* **Explore NEMT Options:** Research and compare NEMT providers to identify the most suitable and affordable service. Pre-book appointments well in advance.
* **Build a Support Network:** Cultivate a network of family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When choosing a residence, prioritize locations closer to Alice Hyde Medical Center or easily accessible routes to Plattsburgh.
* **Prioritize Medication Management:** Ensure you have a reliable system for obtaining and managing your medications.
* **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss your **transportation** concerns with your physician and develop a healthcare plan that considers the challenges of **healthcare access** in Moira.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Moira offers a peaceful environment, but managing hypertension requires proactive planning. While the **transportation** landscape presents challenges, particularly regarding public transit and ride-sharing, the presence of Alice Hyde Medical Center and the availability of NEMT services provide essential support. By understanding the limitations and proactively planning for **healthcare access**, individuals can successfully manage their condition while enjoying the benefits of **moving to Moira**. This "Hypertension Score" analysis serves as a starting point for informed decision-making, empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare system and thrive in this charming corner of New York.