13786, Harpersfield, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13786, Harpersfield, New York is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.60 percent of residents in 13786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is O'Connor Hospital with a distance of 16.27 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harpersfield (ZIP Code 13786)

Understanding healthcare access is crucial, especially when considering a move. This write-up assesses the “Hypertension Score” for residents of Harpersfield, New York (ZIP code 13786), focusing on transportation options to manage hypertension, a condition requiring regular medical attention. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within this rural community.

The “Hypertension Score” isn't a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment. It weighs the challenges and opportunities related to accessing healthcare, crucial for individuals managing hypertension. Regular blood pressure checks, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments are essential components of care. The ease or difficulty of reaching these services significantly impacts health outcomes.

Harpersfield, nestled in Delaware County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is predominantly rural, with limited public transit options. Driving remains the primary mode of transportation. The score will reflect this reality, highlighting the importance of personal vehicles and the potential limitations of other transportation methods.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most direct route to healthcare from Harpersfield often involves navigating the network of local roads and highways. The primary thoroughfare is New York State Route 23, a vital east-west corridor. Driving east on Route 23 provides access to healthcare facilities in Stamford, approximately a 20-minute drive. Stamford Hospital, while smaller, offers primary care and some specialist services.

Traveling west on Route 23 leads to Oneonta, a larger town with a more comprehensive range of healthcare options. The drive to Bassett Hospital in Oneonta typically takes around 45 minutes. This hospital offers a wide array of specialists, diagnostic services, and emergency care, crucial for managing hypertension complications.

Other roadways, such as County Route 10 and County Route 14, serve as feeder roads to Route 23. These routes, while scenic, can be winding and subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially extending travel times, especially during winter months. Residents considering moving to Harpersfield should factor in these longer travel times when planning healthcare appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Harpersfield are extremely limited. Delaware County Public Transit operates a demand-response system. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, often with significant lead times. This system may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments related to hypertension management.

The availability of accessible vehicles for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a critical consideration. While Delaware County Public Transit aims to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and scheduling requirements can present challenges for those with mobility issues. The lack of fixed routes and the reliance on pre-arranged trips make public transit a less reliable option for regular healthcare access compared to areas with more robust public transportation networks.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Harpersfield. This lack of readily available ride-sharing significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal transportation. Reliance on friends, family, or medical transport becomes critical.

Medical transport services are available, but often require pre-booking and may have associated costs. Companies like Care Ride or local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation, but these services may not be readily available for immediate needs. The cost and scheduling constraints of medical transport can pose a barrier to regular healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective:**

The “Hypertension Score” for Harpersfield reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the lack of ride-sharing services create potential barriers for residents managing hypertension.

The distance to healthcare facilities, particularly those offering specialized services, necessitates careful planning. Residents must consider travel time, potential delays due to weather, and the availability of support for transportation. This is especially important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who may not be able to drive.

**Moving to Harpersfield: Considerations for Healthcare:**

For individuals considering moving to Harpersfield and managing hypertension, careful planning is essential. Before relocating, prospective residents should:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure reliable personal transportation is available.
* **Identify Healthcare Providers:** Research local primary care physicians and specialists.
* **Explore Transportation Alternatives:** Investigate medical transport options and support networks.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in drive times to healthcare facilities when planning appointments.
* **Understand Emergency Protocols:** Familiarize themselves with local emergency services and protocols.

The “Hypertension Score” for Harpersfield highlights the importance of proactive planning. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic environment, healthcare access requires careful consideration of transportation limitations. By understanding these challenges and planning accordingly, residents can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their health. The ability to navigate these transportation challenges is critical for those moving to Harpersfield and managing their health.