12933, Ellenburg, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12933, Ellenburg, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.75 percent of residents in 12933 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 16.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12933

Ellenburg, New York, nestled in the Adirondack foothills, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score of this community requires a deep dive into healthcare access, a critical component often intertwined with transportation. This analysis focuses on the commute to healthcare within ZIP code 12933, considering various transportation options, drive times, and the availability of essential services.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Ellenburg is the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents of 12933, the closest significant healthcare hubs are in Plattsburgh, approximately 20 miles east. This distance, while seemingly manageable, introduces complexities tied to transportation. The primary route is via **New York State Route 190**, a relatively straightforward, two-lane highway that provides a direct link to Plattsburgh. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snow common in the Adirondacks, travel on Route 190 can become treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to crucial medical care.

Driving times to Plattsburgh vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. Under ideal circumstances, the drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. However, during peak hours or adverse weather, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more. This time factor is crucial, especially in emergencies where every minute counts. Access to emergency services, including ambulance response times, is also affected by these transportation limitations.

Public transportation options are limited in Ellenburg. The region lacks a comprehensive public transit system, making reliance on personal vehicles the norm. This scarcity of public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a car, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance. This impacts healthcare access and overall health outcomes.

While public transit is scarce, there are some options. The **Clinton County Public Transportation System (CCPTS)** offers limited routes, though they may not directly serve Ellenburg or provide convenient access to healthcare facilities in Plattsburgh. Residents would likely need to arrange a transfer, adding time and complexity to their journey. The availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is essential for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal access to transportation and healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area but their presence in Ellenburg is less certain. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. This makes ride-sharing an unreliable option, particularly for routine medical appointments or in emergency situations. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can also pose a financial burden, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several companies offer these services in the region, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services. These services are often equipped to handle patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring wheelchair assistance or oxygen. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, limiting their availability for urgent medical needs.

The overall health score for 12933 is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to care. These barriers can lead to delayed medical attention, missed appointments, and reduced access to preventive care, ultimately impacting the overall health and well-being of Ellenburg residents.

Healthcare access is not just about the physical distance to medical facilities; it also encompasses the ease and affordability of reaching those facilities. The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options in Ellenburg contributes to health disparities within the community. Individuals with limited mobility, low incomes, or other transportation barriers may face significant challenges in accessing the healthcare they need.

Moving to Ellenburg presents a unique set of considerations. While the area offers a peaceful environment, prospective residents must carefully evaluate their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility should carefully research the available options and plan accordingly. Understanding the limitations of transportation options is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access extends beyond individual health outcomes. It also affects the overall health of the community. A community with poor healthcare access may experience higher rates of chronic disease, preventable hospitalizations, and premature mortality. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improvements to public transportation, increased availability of ride-sharing services, and support for medical transportation providers.

The availability of healthcare providers in the Plattsburgh area is another factor to consider. While the drive to Plattsburgh is the most common route, access to specialists and specialized care may require further travel. The presence of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in Plattsburgh is a positive factor, but the accessibility of these facilities remains a critical concern.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can help to mitigate some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, telehealth is not a complete solution, as it may not be suitable for all medical conditions or for patients who lack access to reliable internet service.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 12933 is impacted by the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the limitations of transportation options create barriers to care, potentially impacting health outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes improvements to public transportation, support for medical transportation services, and the promotion of telehealth. Prospective residents considering moving to Ellenburg should carefully assess their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being within the community. The health of the community is dependent on access to healthcare, and that access is dependent on transportation.