13796, Laurens, New York Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 13796, Laurens, New York is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.60 percent of residents in 13796 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.04 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13796

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable and efficient access to healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 13796 (Laurens, NY), providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment of healthcare access. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately offering insights for residents and those considering **moving to Laurens**.

ZIP code 13796, nestled in Otsego County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The rural nature of the area significantly influences the available options, demanding a nuanced understanding of the practicalities of reaching medical appointments and obtaining necessary care. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the landscape, empowering informed decisions regarding health management.

**Drive Times: The Primary Conduit**

For most residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The major roadways serving Laurens are crucial for navigating the region. Route 20, a significant east-west artery, offers access to Cooperstown, approximately 10 miles east, where Bassett Healthcare Network's main campus is located. Drive times to Bassett can vary depending on traffic and time of day, typically ranging from 15 to 25 minutes.

Route 28, running north-south, provides access to Oneonta, about 15 miles south. Oneonta offers additional healthcare options, including primary care physicians and specialists. Drive times to Oneonta generally fall between 20 and 30 minutes. These times are, of course, subject to seasonal variations, with winter weather often extending travel durations.

Smaller roads, such as County Route 12 and County Route 10, connect Laurens to neighboring towns and villages. While these routes offer scenic drives, they can be slower and less direct, particularly for reaching more specialized medical facilities. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can also impact travel times and safety.

The **Hypertension Score** for drive times considers the distances and potential travel times to essential healthcare providers. A score is assigned based on the proximity of primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and emergency services. The availability of convenient parking at these facilities is also factored into the equation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options in Laurens are limited. The Otsego County Public Transportation (OCPT) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are restricted, especially for residents in more remote areas. The OCPT operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This can be a significant barrier for individuals with hypertension, who may need to access medical care on short notice.

OCPT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance booking can still pose challenges. The **Hypertension Score** is negatively impacted by the scarcity of public transit, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot drive.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Laurens. Availability is inconsistent, and wait times can be prolonged. This unreliability makes them a less-than-ideal option for regular medical appointments or emergencies. The **Hypertension Score** reflects this limitation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and LifeNet provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to those who cannot drive or have difficulty using public **transportation**.

The availability and cost of NEMT services are crucial considerations. While these services can be invaluable, they can also be expensive, potentially impacting the overall **healthcare access** affordability for individuals managing hypertension. The **Hypertension Score** takes into account the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transport services.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The **Hypertension Score** for ZIP code 13796 is a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed. The score is designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the ease with which residents can access healthcare, particularly for those managing hypertension.

The score is influenced by the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public **transportation**, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and affordability of medical transport. The score also considers the proximity of pharmacies, emergency services, and other essential healthcare resources.

The **Hypertension Score** is not a static measure. It can fluctuate based on changes in **transportation** infrastructure, the expansion of healthcare services, and the availability of new technologies. The score is intended to be a dynamic tool, helping individuals and communities understand and address the challenges of **healthcare access**.

**Moving to Laurens: Considering the Score**

For individuals considering **moving to Laurens**, the **Hypertension Score** provides valuable insights. It highlights the importance of having access to a personal vehicle and the need to plan for potential delays due to weather or road conditions. It also underscores the importance of researching healthcare providers in advance and understanding the available **transportation** options.

For those managing hypertension, the score can inform decisions about where to live within the ZIP code, prioritizing locations closer to healthcare facilities or along more reliable **transportation** routes. The score also emphasizes the need to explore options like medical transport services and to familiarize oneself with the OCPT schedule.

Ultimately, the **Hypertension Score** for ZIP code 13796 serves as a guide, promoting informed decision-making about **healthcare access**. It encourages residents to proactively manage their health and to advocate for improvements in the **transportation** and healthcare infrastructure of the community. It's a reminder that access to quality healthcare is not just about medical expertise, but also about the ability to get there.