12837, Hampton, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12837, Hampton, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.10 percent of residents in 12837 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Glens Falls Hospital with a distance of 23.35 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12837

Nestled within the Adirondack Park, ZIP Code 12837, encompassing the charming town of Hampton, New York, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. While the region offers stunning natural beauty and a slower pace of life, the remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access, a critical component of overall health. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents, providing an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities in accessing vital medical services.

The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape for current and prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Hampton.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in 12837 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The vast majority of residents rely on their cars for daily commutes, including trips to healthcare providers. The major arteries connecting Hampton to healthcare facilities are crucial to consider.

Route 22, a north-south thoroughfare, serves as the primary conduit for residents. Traveling south on Route 22 leads towards larger towns like Granville and Whitehall, where basic medical services, including primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, are available. Drive times to these locations can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Glens Falls Hospital, a regional medical center offering a wide array of services, is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive via Route 22 and then either Route 149 or I-87 (the Northway). Similarly, Albany, with its concentration of hospitals and medical specialists, is a significant undertaking, requiring a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily via I-87. This distance poses a considerable challenge, particularly for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

The condition of the roads themselves is a factor. While Route 22 is generally well-maintained, winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving treacherous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in 12837 is extremely limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. There is no readily available, regularly scheduled bus service within the town itself. The lack of public transit presents a major barrier for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with vehicle ownership.

The Greater Glens Falls Transit (GGFT) provides some service in the broader region, but its routes do not extend directly into Hampton. Even if a resident could access a GGFT route, the travel time and multiple transfers required to reach a healthcare facility would be substantial.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transit system. Given the limited options, the lack of accessible transportation options further exacerbates the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent and limited. The availability of these services is heavily dependent on driver availability, which can be scarce in a rural area like Hampton. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments is, therefore, not a dependable option.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals needing assistance. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Several providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services that may offer NEMT services and private companies specializing in medical transport.

However, the cost of medical transportation can be a significant barrier. Insurance coverage for NEMT varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial. The availability of these services is also dependent on scheduling and driver availability, similar to ride-sharing.

**Overall Health Score: A Reflection of Transportation and Healthcare Access**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare access in 12837, the "Overall Health Score" is moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the uncertainties of ride-sharing, creates challenges for residents seeking timely and convenient access to healthcare.

The long distances to specialized medical facilities and the potential impact of weather on travel times further contribute to the challenges. The lack of readily available public transit and the cost of medical transportation pose significant barriers for vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Hampton**

For individuals considering moving to Hampton, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should:

* **Evaluate personal transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle or explore alternative transportation options.
* **Research local healthcare providers:** Identify primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Investigate medical transportation options:** Determine the availability and cost of medical transportation services in the area.
* **Consider insurance coverage:** Understand the extent of insurance coverage for healthcare services and transportation.
* **Assess personal mobility:** Individuals with mobility limitations should carefully consider the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for 12837 reflects the complex interplay between transportation infrastructure, healthcare access, and the unique characteristics of a rural community. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic lifestyle, residents must be prepared to navigate the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly in the absence of robust public transit options. The availability of medical transport services and the potential for ride-sharing can help bridge the gap, but the reliance on personal vehicles remains the dominant factor in accessing healthcare in Hampton. Careful planning and consideration are essential for ensuring access to vital medical services and maintaining overall health in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region.