10930, Highland Mills, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10930, Highland Mills, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.60 percent of residents in 10930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Highland Mills, NY (ZIP Code 10930)**

The health of a community is intricately woven with the threads of its accessibility to healthcare. In Highland Mills, New York (ZIP Code 10930), the ease with which residents can reach medical services significantly impacts their overall well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the challenges and opportunities that shape healthcare access for those living within this picturesque Hudson Valley enclave, offering insights for anyone considering moving to Highland Mills.

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Highland Mills is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The town's location, nestled within the embrace of the Hudson Highlands, dictates a reliance on roadways. The most direct route to many healthcare facilities involves navigating the scenic but often congested **New York State Route 32**. This road, while offering beautiful views, can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours and weekends. Residents should anticipate potential delays when planning medical appointments.

Another critical artery is **Interstate 87**, also known as the New York State Thruway. While the Thruway provides a faster route to healthcare facilities located further afield, such as those in Middletown or Newburgh, it also involves tolls and potential for traffic bottlenecks, particularly around the Harriman and Newburgh service areas. Accessing the Thruway from Highland Mills requires navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel time.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The **Orange CountyOrange County Transit (OCT)** system provides some bus service, but its routes and schedules may not always align seamlessly with healthcare needs. The routes serving Highland Mills are infrequent, and direct routes to hospitals or major medical centers are often unavailable. This can necessitate transfers, significantly increasing travel time and potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring urgent care.

The availability of public transit also impacts healthcare access for those considering moving to Highland Mills. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the proximity of bus stops to their potential homes and the frequency of service to medical facilities. The lack of robust public transportation can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

The **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)** compliance of public transit is a crucial consideration. OCT strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of these vehicles on every route cannot be guaranteed. Individuals with disabilities should verify the availability of accessible services and plan their trips accordingly. This may require advance notice or alternative arrangements.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, the availability of these services in Highland Mills can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand may increase the cost of transportation. The reliability of ride-sharing services should be factored into healthcare planning.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized services for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of NEMT services can be significant, and prior arrangements are typically required. Residents should research available NEMT providers in the area and understand their service areas, pricing, and booking procedures.

Beyond the immediate transportation options, the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities is another critical factor. Highland Mills is relatively close to a variety of medical providers, including urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialists. However, the specific location of these facilities relative to a resident's home can significantly impact travel time and convenience.

The nearest hospital, **Orange Regional Medical Center**, is a considerable drive away, requiring travel on major roadways like Route 32 or Interstate 87. This distance can be a concern in emergency situations. Other hospitals, such as **St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital** in Newburgh, are also accessible, but the travel time and route options should be carefully considered.

The availability of specialist care is also an important consideration. Residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in surrounding areas, such as Middletown or Poughkeepsie, to access certain specialists. This can add to the overall travel burden and increase the time commitment associated with healthcare.

The overall health score for Highland Mills, NY (ZIP Code 10930), reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers access to a range of healthcare providers, the transportation landscape presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation options, can create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for those without cars or with mobility limitations.

The cost and availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation also influence the overall health score. The geographic distribution of healthcare facilities, with the nearest hospital being a significant drive away, further complicates the picture.

For those contemplating moving to Highland Mills, a thorough assessment of transportation needs and healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should carefully consider their ability to drive, the availability of public transportation options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities to their potential homes.

The health score can be improved by investing in enhanced public transportation, increasing the frequency of bus routes, and improving ADA accessibility. Supporting initiatives that promote ride-sharing and medical transportation services can also improve access. The community's commitment to these improvements will directly impact the well-being of its residents.

In conclusion, while Highland Mills boasts a desirable quality of life, its transportation infrastructure presents challenges to healthcare access. Residents must carefully navigate the roadways, consider the limitations of public transit, and explore alternative transportation options to ensure they can readily access the medical care they need. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering making Highland Mills their home and for the overall health and well-being of the community.