12170, Stillwater, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12170, Stillwater, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.82 percent of residents in 12170 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Hospital Of Troy, New York with a distance of 15.97 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12170 (Stillwater, NY)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which residents can access medical services significantly impacts their health. This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare accessibility within ZIP Code 12170, focusing on transportation options, drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Stillwater, NY, as it offers a glimpse into the practical realities of healthcare access in the area.

ZIP Code 12170, encompassing the town of Stillwater, is a primarily suburban and rural community nestled in Saratoga County, New York. The area's geographical layout influences transportation options and, consequently, healthcare access. The evaluation considers various modes of transportation, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to provide a holistic understanding of the healthcare commute.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Stillwater is the personal vehicle. Several major roadways provide access to healthcare facilities. Residents typically rely on New York State Route 4 and US Route 4 to reach hospitals and clinics. Route 4, a north-south artery, offers direct access to Glens Falls Hospital, a significant healthcare provider located approximately 20-30 minutes north of Stillwater. US Route 4 provides a slightly longer route but offers alternative access points and can be beneficial during peak traffic times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The Saratoga Hospital, located in Saratoga Springs, is about a 20-25 minute drive via US Route 4 and NY Route 29. This hospital offers a wide range of medical services, including specialized care. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in nearby towns like Mechanicville and Schuylerville are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive.

Traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour and school pick-up times, can significantly impact drive times. While Stillwater benefits from a relatively low-traffic environment compared to more urban areas, residents should factor in potential delays when planning healthcare appointments. Road maintenance and seasonal weather conditions, especially during winter, can also affect travel times and necessitate careful planning.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in Stillwater are limited but still contribute to healthcare access. The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) provides bus service in the broader Capital Region, including routes that serve nearby towns and cities. While no direct CDTA routes currently serve Stillwater, residents can access bus routes in neighboring communities such as Mechanicville or Saratoga Springs.

The availability of public transit is crucial for individuals who do not own a vehicle or cannot drive due to age or disability. Unfortunately, the current public transportation infrastructure in Stillwater presents challenges for healthcare access. The lack of direct routes necessitates transfers and potentially longer travel times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. CDTA strives to provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and accessible stops. However, the availability of accessible infrastructure may vary depending on the specific route and location. Individuals with disabilities should verify the accessibility of specific routes and stops before planning their healthcare commute.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation alternative for healthcare access in Stillwater. While the availability of these services may vary depending on demand and driver availability, they provide a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. Ride-sharing services are particularly useful for short trips to local clinics or urgent care facilities.

Medical transport services cater to individuals who require specialized transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers operate in the Capital Region, including local ambulance services and private companies. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers.

Medical transport services provide various levels of care, including basic transportation, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and specialized medical assistance during transit. The availability and cost of these services vary depending on the provider and the level of care required. Individuals needing medical transport should research available providers and confirm insurance coverage before scheduling their transportation.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for Moving to Stillwater**

For individuals considering moving to Stillwater, understanding healthcare access is paramount. The area's location in Saratoga County offers access to a network of healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options should be considered.

Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and transportation preferences when evaluating Stillwater as a potential home. Individuals who prioritize easy access to public transit or require specialized medical transport may find the area less convenient than more urban locations with robust transportation infrastructure.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options can mitigate some of the challenges associated with limited public transit. However, residents should factor in the potential costs and availability of these services when planning their healthcare needs.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in ZIP Code 12170 reflects a mixed picture. The area benefits from proximity to several healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics. The primary reliance on personal vehicles and the relatively low traffic volume contribute to reasonable drive times for many residents.

However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services and medical transport for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations pose challenges. The accessibility of CDTA routes in neighboring communities and the availability of ride-sharing services offer alternative transportation options, but they may involve longer travel times and additional costs.

Overall, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Stillwater can be considered moderate. The convenience of personal vehicles and the availability of ride-sharing services enhance accessibility, but the limitations of public transit and the reliance on specialized medical transport for certain populations warrant careful consideration. Individuals moving to Stillwater should assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure they can access the medical services they need efficiently and effectively.