12929, Dannemora, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12929, Dannemora, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.83 percent of residents in 12929 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 12.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Dannemora, NY (ZIP Code 12929)

Assessing the overall health of a community necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond clinical care. In Dannemora, New York (ZIP Code 12929), the availability and accessibility of healthcare services are profoundly shaped by the transportation landscape. This report provides an 'Overall Health Score' for the area, focusing on the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access, crucial for anyone moving to Dannemora.

Dannemora, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, characterized by vast distances and limited public transit, significantly impacts residents' ability to reach healthcare providers. This analysis examines the primary modes of transportation, quantifying their influence on healthcare access and ultimately, the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Dannemora is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The reliance on cars is a direct consequence of the area's geographical characteristics. The primary artery for travel is **New York State Route 374**, which snakes through the town, connecting residents to essential services. Accessing specialized care, however, often requires journeys beyond the immediate vicinity.

The nearest major medical facilities are located in Plattsburgh, approximately 15 miles east. This drive, primarily on **New York State Route 3** and **U.S. Route 9**, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. During winter months, the Adirondack region is known for heavy snowfall, which can significantly extend these travel times, potentially delaying critical medical attention.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Burlington, Vermont, or Albany, New York. These trips involve significantly longer drive times, potentially several hours. This geographic isolation is a significant factor in the overall health score, as it creates barriers to timely healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Dannemora are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system is a considerable detriment to healthcare access, particularly for those who do not own vehicles, are unable to drive, or have mobility limitations.

There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Dannemora. Residents rely on informal arrangements, such as rides from family, friends, or neighbors. The absence of a reliable public transit system exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations.

The lack of public transit also impacts access to preventative care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, which are crucial for maintaining overall health. This absence contributes to a lower overall health score.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The lack of public transit and the inherent reliance on private vehicles also raises concerns about accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The absence of accessible public transportation options, such as buses equipped with wheelchair lifts, further isolates individuals with mobility impairments, limiting their access to healthcare and other essential services.

The availability of accessible parking at healthcare facilities is another crucial factor. While most healthcare facilities are designed to meet ADA standards, the journey to and from these facilities can be challenging for individuals with disabilities, particularly in the absence of accessible public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Dannemora is limited. The availability of these services is often subject to driver availability and demand, which can be unpredictable in a rural area.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the region, including **AmCare Medical Transportation** and **Adirondack Medical Transport**. These services typically require pre-booking and may have associated costs, which can be a barrier for some residents.

The availability of medical transportation services is a positive factor in the overall health score, providing a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the reliance on these services highlights the shortcomings of the public transit system and the limited availability of ride-sharing options.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge:**

Healthcare access in Dannemora is a complex issue, influenced by a combination of factors. The geographic isolation, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles all contribute to the challenges faced by residents.

The availability of healthcare providers within the community is another crucial factor. While Dannemora has a local clinic, residents often need to travel to Plattsburgh or other regional centers for specialized care. This necessitates longer travel times and potentially increases the financial burden associated with healthcare.

The cost of transportation, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and the potential cost of medical transportation services, is another significant factor. These costs can be a barrier for low-income individuals and families, potentially delaying or preventing them from seeking necessary medical care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the overall health score for Dannemora (ZIP Code 12929) is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant challenges to healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Advocate for Increased Public Transit:** Lobbying for the extension of existing bus routes or the implementation of demand-response transportation services would significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those without vehicles.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation options would also improve healthcare access.
* **Support Telemedicine Initiatives:** Promoting the use of telemedicine, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can help overcome geographic barriers and improve access to care.
* **Enhance Community Outreach:** Increasing community outreach and education programs to raise awareness about available healthcare resources and transportation options is also crucial.

By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, Dannemora can enhance its overall health score and create a healthier community for all its residents, especially those considering moving to the area. The focus should be on creating a transportation network that ensures equitable access to healthcare services, regardless of individual circumstances.