12912, Au Sable Forks, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12912, Au Sable Forks, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.05 percent of residents in 12912 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 17.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Au Sable Forks (ZIP Code 12912)

Considering a move to the charming village of Au Sable Forks, New York (ZIP Code 12912)? This analysis provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessing the ease of **transportation** to vital **healthcare access** points. Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making, particularly when considering the health and well-being of yourself and your family. This assessment focuses on the practical realities of navigating the region to receive necessary medical care.

The score is based on a weighted system, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport options. Each category receives a rating, ultimately contributing to a final score that reflects the overall ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare facilities from Au Sable Forks.

**Drive Time and Road Conditions:**

Au Sable Forks, nestled within the Adirondack Park, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its location presents specific challenges regarding healthcare access. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are New York State Route 9N and Route 9, with Route 3 also providing access to certain areas. The roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Driving to the nearest hospital, Elizabethtown Community Hospital in Elizabethtown, is a relatively straightforward journey. The drive primarily utilizes Route 9N, a scenic but often winding road. Under normal conditions, the trip takes approximately 25-30 minutes. However, during peak tourist seasons or inclement weather, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or longer.

For specialized care or more comprehensive facilities, residents often travel to Plattsburgh, roughly 35-45 minutes away via Route 9. Plattsburgh is home to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), a major regional healthcare provider. The road conditions on Route 9 are generally good, but traffic can be heavier, particularly during rush hour.

Further afield, Burlington, Vermont, offers access to the University of Vermont Medical Center, a leading tertiary care center. This journey involves crossing the state line and typically requires a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily via Route 9 and Interstate 87. This longer distance underscores the importance of considering the potential for longer travel times for specialized treatments.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transit options within and around Au Sable Forks are limited. The primary provider is the Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT), offering bus routes that connect various towns and villages within Clinton County. However, direct routes from Au Sable Forks to major healthcare facilities are not readily available.

While CCPT services are available, they often require transfers and extended travel times. For example, reaching CVPH in Plattsburgh using public transit might involve a bus to Keeseville, a transfer, and then another bus to Plattsburgh. This journey could easily take over two hours, making it a less practical option for urgent medical needs.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on CCPT buses is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. CCPT strives to provide accessible services, but it's crucial to confirm the availability of accessible routes and features for specific needs. Prospective residents should contact CCPT directly to inquire about specific route accessibility and schedule details.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area but may be less readily accessible in Au Sable Forks itself. Availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, ensuring timely access to critical care.

NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as doctor's visits, dialysis treatments, and physical therapy sessions. Several local companies provide NEMT services, including private ambulance companies. These services typically require advance booking and can be a valuable resource for those needing consistent healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving:**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Au Sable Forks is moderate. The primary factor impacting the score is the reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare needs. While drive times to Elizabethtown and Plattsburgh are reasonable, the lack of readily available public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The score is also influenced by the potential for weather-related delays and the longer travel times required for specialized care in Burlington, Vermont. For individuals with chronic health conditions or those who require frequent medical appointments, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options could present challenges.

For those **moving to Au Sable Forks**, a thorough assessment of personal healthcare needs is essential. Consider the frequency of medical appointments, the need for specialized care, and the ability to drive or arrange for transportation. Explore the availability of NEMT services and establish a plan for accessing healthcare in various circumstances.

The beauty and tranquility of Au Sable Forks are undeniable, but a realistic understanding of healthcare access is crucial. By carefully evaluating the available transportation options and anticipating potential challenges, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their health and well-being are adequately supported.

**Recommendations:**

* **Confirm insurance coverage:** Verify that your health insurance plan covers medical facilities in the region, including Elizabethtown Community Hospital, CVPH, and the University of Vermont Medical Center.
* **Explore NEMT options:** Research and identify reliable NEMT providers in the area and establish a relationship for future appointments.
* **Consider carpooling:** If possible, explore carpooling options with neighbors or friends for regular medical appointments.
* **Plan for winter travel:** Factor in potential delays due to winter weather and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for driving in snowy conditions.
* **Stay informed:** Keep abreast of any changes to CCPT routes, ride-sharing availability, or medical transport services in the area.