10922, Fort Montgomery, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10922, Fort Montgomery, New York is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.80 percent of residents in 10922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fort Montgomery, NY (ZIP Code 10922)

The overall health score for residents of Fort Montgomery, New York (ZIP code 10922), concerning access to healthcare, is a complex tapestry woven from threads of transportation options, geographical realities, and the availability of medical services. Assessing this score necessitates a deep dive into the practicalities of getting to doctors' appointments, hospitals, and pharmacies. This analysis will consider the various modes of transportation available, the distances involved, and the specific challenges faced by residents, particularly those considering moving to Fort Montgomery.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Fort Montgomery is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's rural nature and limited public transportation options necessitate that residents drive to reach most medical facilities. This dependence on personal vehicles creates a significant hurdle for those without a car, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The availability of healthcare is inextricably linked to the ability to navigate the local road network.

The most direct route to healthcare facilities outside of Fort Montgomery typically involves utilizing **US Route 9W**. This major thoroughfare snakes along the Hudson River, connecting the town to larger communities to the north and south. Driving south on 9W provides access to hospitals and medical offices in Highland Falls, a relatively short drive. However, the road can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours and weekends, potentially increasing commute times and adding to the stress of seeking medical care.

Alternatively, traveling north on 9W leads to the larger towns of Cornwall and New Windsor, which offer a wider array of healthcare options, including hospitals and specialist practices. This journey, while providing more choices, also entails a longer drive, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs. The condition of 9W itself, with its winding curves and occasional potholes, can also contribute to the challenges of transportation, particularly during inclement weather.

Beyond 9W, access to healthcare also involves navigating secondary roads such as **Route 218** and **Mountain Avenue**. These roads, while offering alternative routes, can be narrower and less well-maintained than 9W, adding to the complexity of travel. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is also a factor, with parking often being limited, particularly in the more populated areas.

Public transportation options in Fort Montgomery are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access. The **Orange CountyOrange County Transit (OCTA)** provides some bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and coverage in the more rural areas of the town is sparse. The **OCTA Route 1** and **OCTA Route 2** might offer limited service, but these routes are not necessarily designed to prioritize healthcare access, and the schedules may not align with medical appointment times. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times can make public transportation a less desirable option for many residents. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on public transit is crucial. OCTA buses are equipped with features like ramps or lifts, and priority seating for individuals with disabilities, but the overall limitations of the system still impact healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, making it a less affordable option for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially in emergencies, is another consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the region. Companies like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** may offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for urgent needs. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited insurance coverage.

The healthcare landscape in the surrounding areas also impacts the overall health score. The availability of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist practices in nearby towns and cities is a crucial factor. The proximity of **St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital** in Newburgh and **Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall** in Cornwall provides residents with access to emergency care and a wide range of medical services. The presence of these facilities significantly improves the health score for residents of Fort Montgomery.

However, the distance to these facilities and the reliance on transportation remain critical factors. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is also essential. The need to travel to larger cities, such as New York City, for specialized care adds to the transportation burden and increases commute times.

For individuals considering moving to Fort Montgomery, the accessibility of healthcare should be a primary consideration. The limitations of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long commute times all contribute to a lower health score. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in the area.

The overall health score for residents of Fort Montgomery is therefore moderate. While access to healthcare is available, it is often contingent on personal transportation and can be challenging for those without a car or those with mobility limitations. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers some alternatives, but their reliability and affordability remain concerns. The limited public transportation options and the distances to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns and cities also contribute to the challenges faced by residents. Improving the health score would require enhancements to public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and greater investment in medical transportation options.