12917, Burke, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12917, Burke, New York is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.97 percent of residents in 12917 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12917

ZIP Code 12917, encompassing the charming town of Burke, New York, presents a unique tapestry of rural living, interwoven with the essential threads of healthcare access. Evaluating the overall health score for residents necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, particularly the challenges and opportunities presented by the commute to healthcare facilities. This analysis delves into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a vivid picture of the realities faced by those seeking medical care in this picturesque corner of the Adirondacks.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Burke is the reliance on personal vehicles. Residents often embark on journeys to nearby towns and cities for medical appointments, diagnostic tests, and specialized treatments. These drives, while scenic, can be time-consuming and dependent on weather conditions, especially during the harsh winters that characterize the region. The primary arteries for these commutes are State Route 11, the backbone of transportation in the area, and County Route 27.

Heading east towards Malone, the county seat, a drive to Alice Hyde Medical Center, the closest hospital, typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This journey primarily utilizes Route 11, offering a relatively straightforward route. However, traffic, though generally light, can be impacted by school buses, seasonal tourism, and occasional road work.

Venturing west towards the city of Plattsburgh, the drive time increases, typically ranging from 45 minutes to an hour. This route involves navigating Route 11 and then transitioning onto Interstate 87, the Northway, a major north-south thoroughfare. While the Northway offers a high-speed option, inclement weather can significantly affect travel times and safety. The availability of healthcare facilities in Plattsburgh, including the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, provides a wider range of specialized services, making this longer commute a necessary reality for some residents.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 12917 are limited. The Franklin County Public TransportationPublic Transportation system offers some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and their direct impact on healthcare access is minimal. The system's primary routes might not directly connect Burke with major medical facilities, making it less than ideal for regular appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses needs careful consideration, as it's crucial for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Burke. The sparse population density and limited demand make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate within the area. This absence places a significant burden on residents who lack personal vehicles or are unable to drive. It underscores the importance of relying on friends, family, or medical transportation services for non-emergency medical appointments.

Medical transportation services play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. These services often require advance booking and may involve varying costs depending on the distance and type of service. The availability of these services in ZIP Code 12917 is critical, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 12917 is, therefore, a mixed bag. While the presence of Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone offers a convenient option for some, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, presents significant challenges. The drive times, particularly to Plattsburgh, can be substantial, impacting the ability to access specialized care and increasing the stress associated with medical appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Burke, a careful assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with chronic conditions or limited mobility should prioritize access to reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, medical transportation services, or the support of family and friends. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the absence of ride-sharing services is crucial for making informed decisions.

The challenges of healthcare access in Burke underscore the importance of community initiatives aimed at improving transportation options. Exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, or subsidizing medical transportation services could significantly enhance the overall health score for residents. Such initiatives would not only improve healthcare access but also contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life in this beautiful, but geographically isolated, community.

In conclusion, while Burke offers a tranquil and appealing lifestyle, the commute to healthcare presents a significant hurdle. The overall health score is tempered by the realities of drive times, limited public transit, and the absence of ride-sharing. Careful planning, reliance on medical transportation services, and community-driven solutions are essential to ensure that residents of ZIP Code 12917 can access the healthcare they need, when they need it. The journey to healthcare access in Burke is a testament to the importance of transportation in supporting the health and well-being of rural communities.