The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12811, Bakers Mills, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
64.10 percent of residents in 12811 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 34.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 28.06 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 12811, Bakers Mills, New York
Overall Health Score | 49 |
---|---|
People Score | 96 |
Provider Score | 23 |
Hospital Score | 65 |
Travel Score | 7 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 12811 | Bakers Mills | New York |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 21.71 |
1 Car | 0.00 | 0.00 | 26.03 |
2 Cars | 100.00 | 100.00 | 30.36 |
3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 21.89 |
Vehicular Access in 12811, Bakers Mills, New York
## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bakers Mills, NY (ZIP Code 12811)
The overall health score for residents of Bakers Mills, New York (ZIP code 12811) hinges significantly on the accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of transportation and healthcare access, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical attention in this rural community. Considering the unique geographical context, this assessment will be crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Bakers Mills, highlighting the realities of healthcare access.
The primary challenge in 12811 is its relative isolation. Bakers Mills is nestled within the Adirondack Park, a vast expanse of wilderness. This idyllic setting, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, presents significant hurdles when it comes to accessing healthcare. The availability of transportation options directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.
**Drive-Time Dynamics and Roadway Realities:**
The most common mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is personal vehicles. However, the drive times to the nearest medical facilities are a critical factor. The closest hospital, Glens Falls Hospital, is approximately 30 miles away, potentially requiring a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route involves navigating **NY-28** south, a winding road that can be challenging during winter months.
Another option involves heading east on **NY-8** to reach the town of Chestertown, which offers some medical services, including a primary care physician and urgent care facilities. This drive is shorter, usually around 20 minutes. However, the scope of services in Chestertown is limited compared to the larger hospitals in Glens Falls.
For specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Albany, the state capital, is roughly 70 miles away, translating to a drive of 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via **I-87 (Northway)**. This extended travel time can be particularly problematic for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring emergency care.
**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape:**
Public transportation options in Bakers Mills are exceedingly limited. The rural nature of the area makes establishing and maintaining robust public transit routes challenging. There is no direct bus service that connects Bakers Mills to major healthcare facilities.
While some regional bus services operate in nearby towns, they do not extend into the core of Bakers Mills. This absence of public transit significantly impacts those who do not own vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Gaps:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the area. Their availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be extended, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments unreliable.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, are a viable option. However, these services are often expensive, and their availability may be limited. Companies like Ambulance Service of Glens Falls and other regional providers may offer transport, but booking in advance is essential. The cost factor is a significant barrier for many.
**ADA Accessibility and Healthcare Access:**
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation and healthcare facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of public transit in Bakers Mills poses a significant challenge to ensuring equal healthcare access for all. Even if healthcare facilities in nearby towns are ADA compliant, the absence of accessible transportation makes it difficult for individuals with mobility limitations to reach these facilities.
**The Impact of Transportation on Health Outcomes:**
The transportation challenges in Bakers Mills directly impact health outcomes. Delayed access to medical care can lead to worsened health conditions, increased emergency room visits, and higher healthcare costs. The time spent traveling to and from appointments can also be physically and emotionally draining, further impacting overall well-being.
**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective:**
Beyond transportation, other factors influence healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services in the immediate vicinity is crucial. The limited number of healthcare providers in the area necessitates longer travel times and potential delays in receiving care.
The cost of healthcare, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, also plays a significant role. Individuals with limited financial resources may delay or forgo necessary medical care due to cost concerns.
**Moving to Bakers Mills: A Healthcare Consideration:**
For individuals considering moving to Bakers Mills, understanding the healthcare landscape is paramount. The remoteness of the area and the limited transportation options necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should assess their healthcare needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing medical services.
Individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should be particularly mindful of the travel times and transportation limitations. Exploring options such as telehealth services and establishing a relationship with a healthcare provider in a nearby town are crucial steps.
**The Overall Health Score: A Complex Equation:**
The overall health score for Bakers Mills residents is a complex equation, heavily influenced by the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors. The challenges are undeniable: long drive times, limited public transit, and the potential for high transportation costs.
While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the healthcare landscape presents significant hurdles. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including exploring opportunities for telehealth services, expanding medical transportation options, and advocating for improved public transit infrastructure.
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