13682, Rodman, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13682, Rodman, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.40 percent of residents in 13682 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rodman, NY (ZIP Code 13682)

The quaint village of Rodman, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, New York, presents a unique challenge for residents managing hypertension. While the pace of life may be slower, the journey to essential healthcare services, particularly those specializing in cardiology and hypertension management, can be a significant hurdle. This write-up aims to assess the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 13682, considering the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We'll explore the complexities of commuting to medical appointments, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transport.

The primary concern for individuals managing hypertension in Rodman is the relative remoteness of specialized healthcare facilities. While the village itself boasts a general practitioner, access to cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities like Watertown, approximately 20 miles south, or even Syracuse, roughly 70 miles southwest. These distances, coupled with potential weather conditions and the limitations of local transportation, contribute to the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension.

Driving remains the most common method of transportation for residents of Rodman seeking healthcare. The primary route to Watertown involves navigating Route 11, a major north-south artery. The drive typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Route 11 can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours and in the winter months, when snow and ice can significantly extend travel times. The journey to Syracuse, primarily via Interstate 81, demands a drive of approximately one and a half to two hours. Interstate 81 is generally well-maintained, but it can be subject to delays due to accidents or inclement weather.

The availability of public transportation in Rodman and its surrounding areas is limited. Jefferson County operates a public transit system, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the needs of Watertown and its immediate vicinity. There is no direct public transit route that services Rodman. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to Watertown to access the public transit system, adding an additional layer of complexity and time to their healthcare commute. The absence of reliable public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not drive or are unable to drive due to medical conditions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area but their presence in Rodman is sporadic. While they can offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability and pricing can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This lack of consistent availability makes ride-sharing an unreliable option for regular medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with fixed incomes or those requiring frequent visits to healthcare providers.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potentially valuable resource for residents of Rodman. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and American Medical Response. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and wheelchair accessibility. However, availability can be limited, and pre-booking is often required, sometimes several days in advance. The cost of medical transportation can also be substantial, potentially impacting healthcare affordability for those with limited financial resources.

For individuals considering moving to Rodman, the accessibility of healthcare should be a crucial factor in their decision-making process. The limited transportation options, coupled with the distance to specialized medical facilities, can significantly impact the quality of life for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the feasibility of accessing necessary healthcare services before making a move.

The Hypertension Score for Rodman (ZIP code 13682) is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation all contribute to a lower score. The remoteness of specialized healthcare facilities and the challenges of navigating inclement weather further exacerbate these issues.

To improve the Hypertension Score, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing the public transit system to include routes that directly service Rodman would significantly increase healthcare access for non-drivers. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation options for medical appointments could also alleviate some of the financial burdens. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better road maintenance and snow removal, would reduce travel times and improve safety during inclement weather.

The local healthcare providers could also play a role in improving the Hypertension Score. Telemedicine appointments, for example, could reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up consultations and medication management. Establishing a mobile health clinic that regularly visits Rodman could bring essential healthcare services directly to the community.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for Rodman reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options and the distance to specialized medical facilities. While driving remains the primary mode of transport, the lack of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services pose significant barriers. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, subsidized ride-sharing programs, infrastructure investments, and innovative healthcare delivery models is crucial to improving healthcare access and the overall well-being of residents managing hypertension in Rodman. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is vital for those moving to Rodman, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and maintain a high quality of life within this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.