10974, Sloatsburg, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 10974, Sloatsburg, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.27 percent of residents in 10974 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 4.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sloatsburg (ZIP Code 10974)

The picturesque village of Sloatsburg, nestled in the Ramapo Mountains of New York, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. While offering a serene environment, its relative isolation poses challenges when considering the overall health score, particularly concerning transportation to medical facilities. This analysis delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 10974, examining drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for residents and those considering **moving to Sloatsburg**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Sloatsburg is its geographical location. The village is situated in a relatively rural area, with limited immediate healthcare facilities. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized medical services. The reliance on **transportation** becomes paramount, influencing the overall health score.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments. The primary thoroughfare for residents of Sloatsburg is the New York State Thruway (I-87), providing a direct route north and south. Accessing healthcare facilities in Suffern, approximately a 10-15 minute drive, is relatively straightforward via the Thruway or Route 17, a major commercial artery.

However, the convenience of driving is tempered by potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. The Thruway can experience delays, particularly near toll plazas and during accidents. Route 17, while offering more local access, is prone to stop-and-go traffic, adding to commute times. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities in Suffern, Mahwah, and other nearby towns is another consideration, potentially adding to the overall travel time and stress.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Accessing hospitals in Nyack, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, involves navigating the Thruway and local roads. New York City, with its vast array of medical specialists and hospitals, is accessible via the Thruway, the Palisades Interstate Parkway, and the Garden State Parkway, but this journey can easily exceed an hour, especially during rush hour. The distance and travel time to these facilities significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transit offers an alternative, though its availability and efficiency are limited in Sloatsburg. The Metro-North Railroad's Port Jervis Line provides service to Sloatsburg, offering a potential connection to New York City. However, the train schedule may not align with medical appointment times, and the walk from the Sloatsburg train station to local healthcare providers is limited. The train itself can be subject to delays, further complicating the journey.

The availability of public transit also depends on accessibility features. While Metro-North strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the availability of elevators and ramps at all stations, and the accessibility of the train cars themselves, should be verified. This is particularly crucial for individuals with mobility impairments or those using wheelchairs.

Local bus service is provided by Transport of Rockland (TOR). The 97 route offers limited service within the area, but the frequency and coverage may not adequately address the needs of all residents. The 97 route does not have any ADA features. The integration of bus services with the Metro-North train is limited, potentially requiring multiple transfers and increasing travel time. The lack of comprehensive public transit options contributes to the challenges of healthcare access in Sloatsburg.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. Their availability in Sloatsburg is generally good, but the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, should also be considered.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals with specific needs. Ambulance services are essential for emergencies, while NEMT services cater to those who cannot drive themselves or use public transit. Several NEMT providers operate in the area, including First Transit and LogistiCare, and are accessible to residents of Sloatsburg. These services are typically covered by insurance, but prior authorization may be required, and the availability of vehicles and drivers can be limited, particularly for appointments outside of regular business hours.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Sloatsburg is moderate. While the village offers a desirable lifestyle, the limited healthcare facilities and reliance on **transportation** present challenges. The convenience of driving is offset by potential traffic congestion and parking limitations. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services can be costly.

The healthcare score is further impacted by the lack of local healthcare facilities. The nearest urgent care facilities are in Suffern, and the nearest hospitals are in Suffern, Nyack, and New York City. This requires residents to travel for even routine medical care. The distance and travel time to these facilities significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The availability of healthcare providers is also a factor. The village itself has limited access to primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Residents often need to travel to Suffern, Mahwah, or other neighboring towns to access these services. This further increases the reliance on **transportation** and adds to the overall time commitment for healthcare appointments.

The overall health score can be improved by several measures. Increasing the frequency and coverage of public transit, particularly bus routes, would provide more affordable and accessible transportation options. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could also improve access.

Furthermore, encouraging the development of telemedicine services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine consultations and follow-up care. Telemedicine also has the potential to help patients with limited mobility.

The availability of healthcare providers in Sloatsburg is another crucial factor. Attracting more primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to the village would significantly improve the health score. This could be achieved through incentives, such as tax breaks or grants, to encourage healthcare providers to establish practices in the area.

In conclusion, while Sloatsburg offers a beautiful and tranquil environment, its remoteness presents challenges to healthcare access. The reliance on **transportation**, the limited public transit options, and the distance to healthcare facilities contribute to a moderate overall health score. Residents considering **moving to Sloatsburg** should carefully consider these factors and plan accordingly. By understanding the complexities of healthcare access and exploring available options, residents can navigate these challenges and prioritize their health and well-being.