12944, Keeseville, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12944, Keeseville, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.54 percent of residents in 12944 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 14.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Keeseville, NY (ZIP Code 12944)

The overall health score for residents of Keeseville, New York (ZIP Code 12944), hinges significantly on the ease with which they can access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, examining the availability and accessibility of various modes, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. We'll assess the time commitment, convenience, and potential barriers to accessing essential medical services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Keeseville or seeking to understand the existing challenges.

Keeseville, nestled in the Adirondack region, presents a unique transportation challenge. While the natural beauty is undeniable, the dispersed population and geographical features can make accessing healthcare a significant undertaking. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. This necessitates understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities, the condition of the roads, and the potential for seasonal weather-related delays.

The primary artery for travel is **US Route 9**, which runs north-south, connecting Keeseville to larger towns and cities. Driving south on Route 9 provides access to Plattsburgh, a major regional hub with a hospital, specialists, and a wider range of medical services. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Heading north on Route 9 leads to smaller towns and eventually connects to the Canadian border.

**NY Route 22** offers an alternative route, particularly for accessing facilities to the east. However, this road is generally less direct and may involve winding roads and slower speeds. Drive times on Route 22 can vary significantly, potentially adding to the overall travel time to healthcare appointments.

Beyond these main thoroughfares, local roads like **Front Street** and **Pleasant Street** within Keeseville provide access to local amenities and services. These roads are generally well-maintained but can be subject to seasonal conditions, especially during the winter months.

Public transportation options are limited in Keeseville. The primary provider is the **Clinton County Public Transportation (CCPT)**. While CCPT provides a vital service, its routes and schedules may not always align perfectly with healthcare appointment times. Residents may need to carefully plan their trips, considering potential wait times and the need for transfers.

CCPT operates several routes, and it is crucial to check the specific routes and schedules that serve Keeseville and connect to healthcare facilities. Information on routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, can be found on the CCPT website. The availability of accessible transportation is crucial for residents with disabilities or mobility limitations, ensuring equitable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plattsburgh area, but their presence in Keeseville is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and wait times could be longer compared to urban areas. This necessitates careful planning and potentially booking rides in advance, particularly for appointments with specific time constraints. The reliability of ride-sharing is a crucial factor in the overall health score, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility challenges, those needing stretcher transport, or those who are unable to travel independently. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies.

The availability and cost of medical transport services can vary. Researching and identifying reliable providers is essential, especially for those with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments. Understanding the insurance coverage for medical transport is also crucial to avoid unexpected expenses.

The overall health score is significantly impacted by the challenges of healthcare access. The drive times, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to timely and convenient medical care. The lack of readily available, affordable transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

For those considering moving to Keeseville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is paramount. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing healthcare facilities. Those who are accustomed to readily available ride-sharing services may find the limited options in Keeseville a significant adjustment.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter, can also affect healthcare access. Snow and ice can lead to delays, cancellations, and increased travel times. Residents should be prepared for potential weather-related disruptions and have contingency plans in place.

The presence of local healthcare providers within Keeseville, such as primary care physicians and dental practices, can alleviate some of the transportation burden. However, access to specialized care often requires travel to Plattsburgh or other regional centers.

The overall health score for Keeseville residents is a complex equation, influenced by drive times, public transportation, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options. While the region offers a beautiful and tranquil setting, the challenges of transportation must be carefully considered when assessing the ease of accessing healthcare. Addressing these transportation barriers is crucial to ensuring that all residents of Keeseville have equitable access to the medical services they need to maintain their health and well-being. The community could benefit from initiatives to improve public transportation, promote ride-sharing services, and support medical transport options, thus improving the overall health score for its residents.