12993, Westport, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 12993, Westport, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.07 percent of residents in 12993 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 7.08 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Westport, NY (ZIP Code 12993)

The Adirondack town of Westport, New York, nestled along the western shore of Lake Champlain, presents a unique landscape for assessing **healthcare access**, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" analysis, examines the **transportation** infrastructure available to individuals within ZIP code 12993, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for those needing regular medical attention. The goal is to provide prospective residents, especially those **moving to Westport**, with a clear understanding of how easily they can access essential healthcare services.

Westport's relative remoteness, while offering scenic beauty and tranquility, significantly impacts its healthcare accessibility. The nearest major medical facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity, requiring careful consideration of travel times and available **transportation** options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a holistic view of the barriers and facilitators impacting healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

For those relying on personal vehicles, the primary routes to healthcare destinations involve navigating the scenic but sometimes challenging roads of the Adirondacks. The major artery serving Westport is US Route 9, a north-south thoroughfare connecting the town to larger population centers. Traveling south on Route 9, individuals can reach Elizabethtown Community Hospital, approximately a 20-minute drive. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather.

Further afield, the University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital, in Elizabethtown, is a vital healthcare resource. The drive, primarily on Route 9, offers a relatively straightforward route, but potential traffic and seasonal variations must be considered. A longer drive, roughly 45 minutes to an hour, leads to larger hospitals in Plattsburgh, such as University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital. This journey involves a combination of Route 9 and, potentially, Interstate 87 (the Northway), offering faster travel but also introducing the possibility of increased traffic congestion.

For those needing specialized care, Burlington, Vermont, with its comprehensive medical facilities, presents another option. Reaching Burlington necessitates crossing Lake Champlain, either via the ferry service or by driving north to the bridge. The ferry, while offering a scenic alternative, is subject to seasonal operation and weather conditions. The drive to Burlington, primarily on Route 22 and then Interstate 87, can take upwards of two hours, making it a significant time commitment for routine appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public **transportation** options in Westport are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The local bus service, operated by the Essex County Public Transportation System, offers infrequent routes connecting Westport to neighboring towns and the larger regional hubs. These buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and limited route coverage can severely restrict healthcare access, particularly for those needing regular appointments or experiencing urgent medical needs.

The availability of public transit to Plattsburgh, where larger medical facilities are located, is particularly important. However, the bus schedule may not align with the appointment times, necessitating careful planning and potentially long wait times. The limited public transit options underscore the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** solutions for those managing hypertension.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas of the North Country, but their presence in Westport is inconsistent and often limited. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, making it an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments. Individuals relying on ride-sharing must plan well in advance and have backup plans in case of service unavailability.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. While medical transport provides a crucial service, it can be costly and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands serve the region. These include, but are not limited to, Adirondack Ambulance Service, and Essex County Emergency Services. These services offer varying levels of support, from basic transportation to stretcher services.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Westport, NY (12993) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score would consider the drive times to various medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. A low score would indicate significant barriers to healthcare access, while a high score would suggest greater ease of access.

For individuals **moving to Westport** and managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** factors is crucial. Careful consideration of drive times, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the costs of medical transport is essential. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and exploring all available **transportation** options, is critical for ensuring consistent and timely access to medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing healthcare access challenges in Westport. This includes advocating for improved public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and supporting the availability of affordable medical transport options. By addressing these issues, Westport can strive to create a more supportive environment for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension, ensuring that residents can access the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.