12921, Chazy, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12921, Chazy, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.89 percent of residents in 12921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 12.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12921 (Chazy, NY)

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Chazy, New York (ZIP Code 12921) requires a multifaceted examination. This analysis considers the availability and accessibility of healthcare services, factoring in transportation options and the associated travel times. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents, particularly those considering moving to Chazy, of the ease with which they can reach essential medical care.

Chazy, a rural community nestled in the northeastern corner of New York State, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town's geographical isolation necessitates a strong reliance on personal transportation, with public transit options being limited. This write-up will delve into the various transportation modalities available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Chazy is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on the road network to reach medical facilities. The major thoroughfare serving Chazy is **New York State Route 9**, which runs north-south, connecting the town to larger communities like Plattsburgh to the south and the Canadian border to the north.

Driving to the nearest major healthcare hub, the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Chazy. The journey primarily involves navigating Route 9, a well-maintained two-lane highway.

Accessing specialized care or facilities not available in Plattsburgh may necessitate longer drives. For instance, reaching the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, a regional referral center, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, predominantly via **Interstate 87 (The Northway)** and then **Interstate 89**. This longer drive underscores the importance of considering the potential travel time when evaluating healthcare access in Chazy.

Furthermore, accessing urgent care facilities or pharmacies within Chazy itself is generally convenient, with most services located within a short drive. However, the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the challenges faced by those without access to a car, elderly residents, or individuals with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation options in Chazy are limited but present. The Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT) offers a demand-response service, providing door-to-door transportation within Clinton County. This service, while not a fixed-route bus system, can be a valuable resource for residents who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The CCPT service requires advance booking and operates within specific hours, limiting its flexibility. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. It is essential for residents to inquire about the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the booking process when utilizing this service.

While the CCPT offers a lifeline for some, the limited frequency and the need for advance scheduling significantly impact its usability for routine healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the travel times on the CCPT may be longer than driving, as the service may involve multiple stops.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in rural areas like Chazy. Their availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be unpredictable. This makes relying on ride-sharing for time-sensitive medical appointments a risky proposition.

Medical transport services, on the other hand, cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including helping patients in and out of vehicles.

Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the insurance coverage. Residents should investigate their insurance coverage and the available medical transport options to ensure they can access these services when needed.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Chazy is influenced by several factors. The primary advantage is the relatively short drive to Plattsburgh for a range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unavailability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for those unable to drive. The distance to regional referral centers, such as Burlington, Vermont, introduces a time-consuming element for specialized care.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Chazy**

For individuals considering moving to Chazy, understanding the transportation landscape is critical. While the community benefits from its proximity to Plattsburgh and the availability of medical transport, the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles require careful consideration.

Residents should assess their transportation needs, their ability to drive, and their access to medical transport services. Planning for potential travel times to specialized care facilities is also essential.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Chazy reflects a balance of convenience and challenges. While the community offers reasonable access to essential medical services, residents must proactively navigate the transportation landscape to ensure they can receive the care they need. This understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being.