13630, De Kalb Junction, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13630, De Kalb Junction, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.44 percent of residents in 13630 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gouverneur Hospital with a distance of 14.03 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13630**

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. In ZIP code 13630, encompassing De Kalb Junction, New York, the challenge lies in the rural nature of the area, influencing the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up will delve into the transportation infrastructure, highlighting the drive times, public transit, ride-share, and medical transport services available, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of accessing necessary medical care.

The primary mode of transportation in this region is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to reach healthcare facilities. The major thoroughfare is State Route 11, a crucial artery connecting De Kalb Junction to neighboring towns and cities. Driving to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, from De Kalb Junction typically takes about 20-25 minutes, covering approximately 15 miles. This drive involves navigating State Route 11 north towards Canton.

The drive to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, another critical healthcare resource, is a longer journey. It requires traveling east on State Route 11, then transitioning onto State Route 37. This route covers approximately 30 miles and takes around 40-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The reliability of these drive times is crucial for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medication refills, check-ups, and emergency care is paramount.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit (SLCPT) operates a bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent and may not directly serve the needs of individuals seeking frequent medical appointments. While SLCPT buses are generally ADA-accessible, the limited frequency and route coverage present a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Exploring SLCPT's routes and schedules is essential, but the reliance on this option for consistent healthcare access is problematic.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is sporadic. Availability is often contingent on driver proximity and demand, potentially leading to delays and increased costs, particularly for individuals residing outside of the immediate vicinity of larger towns. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore unreliable.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs, are also available. Companies like Rural Transportation and other local providers offer specialized transportation for medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often pre-booked and may require advance notice, which can be a constraint for urgent care needs. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant factor, impacting affordability and access.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 13630 is directly influenced by these transportation factors. The score considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport options. Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing, the score is moderate. The 20-45 minute drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable for many, but the lack of readily available alternatives creates a vulnerability for individuals with hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to De Kalb Junction, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. Those who do not own a vehicle or have limited mobility will face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. The absence of robust public transit and the variable nature of ride-sharing services highlight the need for careful planning and consideration. Individuals with hypertension should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities, explore medical transport options, and consider the potential impact on their ability to manage their condition effectively.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical determinant of overall well-being. In ZIP code 13630, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of reliable alternatives underscores the importance of personal vehicles and the need for proactive planning. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for individuals to carefully assess their transportation options and to develop strategies for ensuring timely and consistent access to the medical care they require.