12804, Queensbury, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12804, Queensbury, New York is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.51 percent of residents in 12804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 2.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12804

This analysis assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 12804, focusing on the critical aspect of **healthcare access** through various **transportation** options. This area, encompassing the town of Queensbury, New York, presents a unique landscape for navigating the complexities of medical appointments, emergency situations, and ongoing care. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount for anyone **moving to Queensbury** or currently residing there.

The primary determinant of this score is the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This includes primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, urgent care facilities, pharmacies, and mental health providers. The analysis considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. Each element is weighted based on its impact on healthcare access, affordability, and overall convenience.

The geography of Queensbury, nestled amidst the Adirondack foothills, influences the transportation landscape. The primary thoroughfare is Interstate 87, also known as the Adirondack Northway. This highway offers relatively swift access to healthcare facilities, but its efficiency hinges on traffic conditions and the location of the destination. Other crucial roads include US Route 9, a major commercial artery, and NY Route 149, connecting Queensbury to surrounding communities. Navigating these routes is crucial for reaching various medical providers.

Drive times represent a significant component of the health score. The closest hospital, Glens Falls Hospital, is generally accessible within a 10-20 minute drive from most locations within 12804, assuming favorable traffic conditions on I-87 or US Route 9. However, specialized care might necessitate longer journeys. For instance, accessing specialists in Albany could involve a 1-hour drive, potentially increasing travel time during inclement weather. This extended travel time can negatively impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic conditions.

Public transportation options are limited in Queensbury, impacting the health score negatively. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) operates a bus system, offering routes that serve some areas within 12804. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, is limited. Furthermore, the coverage area might not extend to all residential areas, necessitating a walk to the nearest bus stop. The GGFT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Despite these efforts, the current public transit infrastructure poses a significant challenge to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation mode, but their availability in the Queensbury area can fluctuate. The reliability of these services, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a valuable option, its limitations impact the overall health score.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services, like MedTrans, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility challenges. While these services enhance healthcare access for those who need them, their availability and cost must be factored into the overall health score. The need for medical transport highlights the importance of accessible healthcare options for all residents, regardless of their physical abilities.

Pharmacies are readily accessible within 12804, with several major chains and independent pharmacies located along US Route 9 and other commercial areas. This convenience positively impacts the health score, ensuring residents can easily obtain their medications. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and medical facilities further enhances healthcare access.

Mental health services are available in the Queensbury area, but access to these services can be influenced by transportation challenges. The location of mental health providers, the availability of public transportation to their offices, and the cost of ride-sharing services all impact the ability of individuals to access mental healthcare. The overall health score must consider these factors to accurately reflect the realities of mental healthcare access in 12804.

Emergency medical services are crucial for ensuring timely healthcare. The proximity of Glens Falls Hospital and the availability of ambulance services significantly impact the health score. The response time of emergency services, considering traffic conditions and geographical factors, is a critical element in assessing healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 12804 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of a local hospital and pharmacies provides a solid foundation, the limitations of public transportation, the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for long travel times to specialized care facilities present challenges. The score also reflects the importance of medical transport services for individuals with mobility limitations.

For individuals considering **moving to Queensbury**, it is crucial to carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations might face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Individuals who drive have a significant advantage, but they must consider the potential for travel delays due to traffic or weather.

The overall health score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that can change based on improvements in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the availability of additional medical facilities. Furthermore, individual circumstances play a crucial role in determining healthcare access. Factors like income, insurance coverage, and personal mobility limitations all influence the ability to obtain necessary medical care.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 12804 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The availability of a local hospital and pharmacies provides a foundation for healthcare access, but the limitations of public transportation and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities present challenges. The score underscores the importance of considering individual needs and circumstances when assessing healthcare access in Queensbury. Understanding these complexities is crucial for anyone **moving to Queensbury** and for the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare accessibility for all residents.