13641, Fishers Landing, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13641, Fishers Landing, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13641 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 6.19 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Fishers Landing (ZIP Code 13641)

The tranquility of Fishers Landing, New York, nestled along the St. Lawrence River, offers a compelling lifestyle. However, assessing healthcare access is paramount, particularly for residents managing hypertension. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 13641, focusing on how easily residents can reach essential medical care, specifically concerning the challenges of hypertension management. The ability to quickly and reliably access appointments, medication refills, and emergency services significantly impacts the quality of life, especially for those managing chronic conditions. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, all within the context of healthcare access.

The primary concern for residents of Fishers Landing, when considering healthcare access, is the relative isolation. The closest major medical facilities are in Ogdensburg, a drive of approximately 15 to 20 miles, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. This distance translates into a significant time commitment, especially during inclement weather, which is common in the region. The primary routes connecting Fishers Landing to Ogdensburg are New York State Route 37 (NY-37) and County Route 4 (CR-4). NY-37, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers the most direct route, while CR-4 provides a more scenic, albeit potentially slower, alternative.

The drive itself, while manageable, requires careful consideration, particularly for individuals with hypertension. The stress of driving, especially in heavy traffic or adverse weather, can exacerbate blood pressure fluctuations. Furthermore, the time spent commuting can limit the time available for other essential activities, including exercise, healthy meal preparation, and social engagement, all of which are critical components of effective hypertension management. Reliable transportation is, therefore, not just a convenience but a necessity for maintaining health.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit System (SLCPTS) offers some services, but their routes and schedules may not adequately address the specific needs of residents in Fishers Landing, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments. Specific route numbers and ADA accessibility features must be confirmed with SLCPTS directly. The frequency of service and the potential for long wait times could present significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, particularly those experiencing symptoms or requiring urgent medical attention. The lack of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in the Fishers Landing area. Their presence is sporadic, depending on driver availability, which can be particularly problematic during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially when considering the frequency of medical appointments and the potential for multiple trips per week. The unpredictability of ride-sharing availability adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions, offer a more specialized solution. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability. The types of services and brands operating in the area should be researched. Some services may provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles, which can be invaluable for individuals with physical limitations. The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific service provider.

For individuals considering moving to Fishers Landing, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" for this location would be negatively impacted by the limited public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles. The drive time to Ogdensburg, while not excessive, requires careful planning and consideration, especially for individuals with health conditions.

The presence of readily available medical transportation services and the accessibility of healthcare facilities in Ogdensburg would positively influence the score. The availability of telehealth options, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also mitigate some of the challenges associated with transportation. The overall "Hypertension Score" would reflect the balance between these factors, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation landscape concerning healthcare access.

Furthermore, the availability of local pharmacies and the ease of medication refills are critical considerations. Proximity to a pharmacy, whether in Fishers Landing or Ogdensburg, minimizes the time and effort required to obtain necessary medications. The ability to order refills online or through a pharmacy app, and the availability of home delivery services, can significantly enhance convenience and adherence to medication regimens.

The impact of seasonal weather conditions on transportation must also be considered. Winter in the St. Lawrence region can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and icy road conditions. These conditions can significantly increase drive times, make public transportation unreliable, and potentially limit the availability of ride-sharing services. Residents must be prepared for these challenges and develop contingency plans for accessing healthcare during inclement weather.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Fishers Landing reflects a complex interplay of factors influencing healthcare access. While the drive to Ogdensburg is manageable, the limited public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of medical transportation services, the accessibility of healthcare facilities, and the ease of medication refills are crucial mitigating factors. For prospective residents, a careful assessment of these factors is essential to ensure they can readily access the healthcare services they need. The decision to move to Fishers Landing should be informed by a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, ensuring that individuals with hypertension can maintain their health and well-being. The importance of reliable transportation for healthcare access cannot be overstated.