10928, Highland Falls, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10928, Highland Falls, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 10928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Highland Falls, NY (ZIP Code 10928)

Assessing the overall health score for Highland Falls, NY (ZIP Code 10928) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, with a significant emphasis on healthcare access. A key determinant of this access is the ease and efficiency with which residents can *transport* themselves to medical facilities. This write-up delves into the intricacies of *transportation* options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture for those considering *moving to Highland Falls*.

The geographic location of Highland Falls, nestled in the Hudson Highlands, presents both advantages and challenges. Its proximity to nature offers a potentially healthier lifestyle, but the mountainous terrain and limited public transit options can complicate *healthcare access*. The overall health score, therefore, is heavily influenced by the available *transportation* infrastructure and its ability to connect residents with necessary medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

For many Highland Falls residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of *transportation* to healthcare providers. The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating the network of highways and roads. Traveling south on Route 9W, drivers can reach the NewYork-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital in Cortlandt Manor, approximately 30 miles away. The drive usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 9W, and then utilizing Interstate 87 (the New York State Thruway), provides access to healthcare facilities in Newburgh, such as Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital. This route, covering roughly 15 miles, typically takes about 25-35 minutes. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

For local medical needs, Highland Falls has several smaller practices and clinics. Accessing these facilities is generally easier, with drive times typically under 10 minutes. However, the availability of specialized care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals, increasing the time and effort required. The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can further exacerbate travel challenges.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Highland Falls are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The primary public transit provider is the Hudson Transit Corporation, which operates bus routes in the area. Route 7A serves Highland Falls, connecting it to Newburgh and other surrounding communities. While this route provides a *transportation* alternative, its frequency is limited, with buses running primarily during weekday business hours.

The availability of weekend or evening service is minimal, making it difficult for residents to access healthcare outside of regular business hours. Furthermore, the accessibility of bus stops and vehicles for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) is a crucial consideration. While the Hudson Transit Corporation strives to meet ADA requirements, the hilly terrain of Highland Falls can make accessing bus stops challenging for some individuals. The reliability of the bus service, including on-time performance, is also a factor influencing the overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Highland Falls area, providing another *transportation* option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and MedTrans. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and scheduling appointments in advance is often necessary. The cost of medical *transportation* can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for Highland Falls is significantly impacted by the challenges related to *healthcare access*. While the area offers a scenic environment that can promote a healthy lifestyle, the limitations in *transportation* options, particularly public transit, create obstacles for residents seeking medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion and road conditions, can lead to delays and stress, potentially affecting health outcomes.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical *transportation* provides alternative solutions, but their cost and availability may restrict their accessibility for all residents. The limited frequency and scope of public transit, especially outside of weekday business hours, further exacerbates the challenges.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the overall health score for Highland Falls, NY (ZIP Code 10928) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, with *transportation* playing a pivotal role. While the area offers proximity to nature and a potentially healthy lifestyle, the limitations in *healthcare access* due to the reliance on personal vehicles and the constraints of public transit and ride-sharing services, presents challenges.

For those considering *moving to Highland Falls*, a thorough assessment of their individual *transportation* needs and access to healthcare is crucial. The availability of specialized medical *transportation* services provides a crucial lifeline for some, but the overall health score is ultimately dependent on the ability of residents to efficiently and reliably access the medical care they require. Further investment in public *transportation*, including increased frequency, extended hours, and improved accessibility, could significantly improve the overall health score for Highland Falls residents, ensuring equitable *healthcare access* for all.