12828, Fort Edward, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12828, Fort Edward, New York is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.33 percent of residents in 12828 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Fort Edward, NY (ZIP Code 12828)

Fort Edward, nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This analysis focuses on the crucial element of **healthcare access**, specifically evaluating the **transportation** infrastructure within ZIP code 12828. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to determining their overall health score. Considering a potential **moving to Fort Edward** scenario, this report offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to physically reach medical providers. In Fort Edward, this translates primarily to vehicular travel. The primary arteries for movement are **U.S. Route 4** and **U.S. Route 9**, both of which traverse the town. These highways provide direct access to neighboring communities like Glens Falls, Queensbury, and Hudson Falls, where a greater concentration of healthcare services exists. The drive times, however, are a significant factor.

For residents of Fort Edward, reaching Glens Falls Hospital, a major regional medical center, typically involves a 10-15 minute drive via **U.S. Route 4**. The distance is relatively short, but traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can extend this commute. Accessing specialized care in Albany, approximately an hour's drive south via **Interstate 87 (the Adirondack Northway)**, presents a more considerable time commitment. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for those with urgent medical needs.

Public **transportation** options in Fort Edward are limited. The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) provides bus service, but its routes are infrequent and primarily serve the immediate Glens Falls area. Route 1, for example, might offer a connection, but its schedule may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the GGFT's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps and lifts, are essential for individuals with mobility impairments, but the overall coverage and frequency remain a challenge.

For those unable to drive or utilize public transit, ride-sharing services offer an alternative. Both Uber and Lyft operate in the region, providing on-demand transportation. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical **transportation** services cater to individuals with specific needs. Companies like MedTrans and First Call Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services offer a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the availability of urgent care facilities and specialist offices within a reasonable distance is critical. While Fort Edward has local primary care physicians and some specialized services, many residents must travel to Glens Falls or beyond for more complex medical needs. This reliance on external resources underscores the importance of reliable transportation options.

The geographical layout of Fort Edward, with its residential areas spread out, further complicates healthcare access. Residents living in more remote areas may face longer travel times to reach essential services. This disparity highlights the need for a comprehensive **transportation** strategy that considers the needs of all residents.

Evaluating the overall health score necessitates considering the potential impact of these factors. The relative ease of access to Glens Falls Hospital, balanced against the longer travel times to Albany and the limitations of public **transportation**, presents a mixed picture. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transport** services provides valuable alternatives, but the associated costs and potential availability constraints must be acknowledged.

The health score is not solely determined by the availability of medical facilities. Social determinants of health, such as income, education, and access to healthy food, also play a crucial role. However, the ability to reach healthcare providers is a fundamental prerequisite for maintaining good health.

For individuals **moving to Fort Edward**, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and **transportation** options is essential. Those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the commute times and the availability of alternative transportation methods. The reliance on personal vehicles is significant, and those without access to a car may face significant challenges.

The community's efforts to improve public **transportation** and expand access to medical services would undoubtedly enhance the overall health score. Investing in more frequent bus routes, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the use of medical **transport** options could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Fort Edward, NY (ZIP Code 12828) reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the proximity to Glens Falls offers relatively easy access to a major medical center, the limitations of public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the longer travel times to specialized care centers pose challenges. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents and for anyone considering **moving to Fort Edward**. The health score is a dynamic measure, and ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** infrastructure and healthcare access will be essential for enhancing the well-being of the community.