12025, Broadalbin, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12025, Broadalbin, New York is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.06 percent of residents in 12025 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Mary's Healthcare with a distance of 9.21 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12025

ZIP Code 12025, encompassing the charming town of Broadalbin, New York, presents a unique profile regarding healthcare access. Evaluating the overall health score involves a multifaceted analysis of transportation options, drive times, and the availability of medical services. This write-up delves into these crucial factors, painting a detailed picture for potential residents considering moving to Broadalbin and seeking to understand their healthcare prospects.

Broadalbin, nestled in Fulton County, is characterized by its rural landscape. This inherent characteristic significantly influences the transportation landscape and, consequently, healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount, with public transit options being limited. The primary arteries for vehicular movement are New York State Route 29A, Route 29, and County Route 107. These roads, while offering scenic drives, are often subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters, potentially impacting travel times and access to care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a pivotal element in assessing the overall health score. The nearest hospitals are located in Gloversville and Amsterdam, both accessible via Route 29A and Route 29. The drive to Nathan Littauer Hospital in Gloversville typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. St. Mary's Healthcare in Amsterdam, a slightly larger facility, is approximately a 25 to 35-minute drive. These times can fluctuate based on traffic, road conditions, and the specific location within Broadalbin.

Specialized medical services, such as those offered by specialists, may necessitate longer travel times. Depending on the specialty, residents might need to travel to Albany or Schenectady, which are further afield, adding significantly to the commute. These journeys, often exceeding an hour, can be challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention. This extended travel time contributes to a lower overall health score.

Public transportation options are limited in Broadalbin. The Fulton County Transit System provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and their coverage within the town is not comprehensive. These buses may offer connections to Gloversville and Amsterdam, but the routes are often circuitous, extending travel times. The lack of frequent, readily accessible public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, especially the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. While the Fulton County Transit System strives to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring accessible vehicles and routes, the limited service frequency and coverage pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The availability of accessible transportation is a crucial factor in evaluating the overall health score, and the limitations in Broadalbin contribute to a lower score for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, but their presence in Broadalbin is inconsistent. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is, therefore, not always a dependable option. This uncertainty further complicates healthcare access for residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies, such as AMED and LifeNet, provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and may involve costs. While providing a valuable service, the need for pre-planning and associated costs can be a barrier for some individuals, impacting their healthcare access.

The availability of primary care physicians and specialists within Broadalbin itself is another critical factor. The presence of local medical practices, offering general medical services, significantly improves the overall health score. However, the availability of specialized care within the town may be limited, necessitating travel to larger cities. This further emphasizes the importance of considering transportation options.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 12025 reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Drive times to nearby hospitals are manageable, but the need for specialized care often requires longer journeys. The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable resource, but the need for pre-planning and associated costs must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Broadalbin, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available public transit options and medical transportation services. Understanding the potential travel times to various healthcare facilities and the associated costs is crucial for making an informed decision.

The overall health score in Broadalbin could be improved by enhancing public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and attracting more medical professionals to establish practices within the town. These improvements would significantly enhance healthcare access and contribute to a higher overall health score for the residents of ZIP Code 12025.