12960, Moriah, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12960, Moriah, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.03 percent of residents in 12960 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Elizabethtown Community Hospital with a distance of 12.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12960 (Moriah, NY)

This analysis provides an overall health score for residents of ZIP code 12960, focusing on their access to healthcare. The score considers the availability and accessibility of various transportation options, recognizing that ease of movement directly impacts health outcomes. Residents of Moriah, New York, face unique challenges due to its rural setting, demanding a nuanced understanding of transportation infrastructure and its influence on healthcare access. This assessment considers both the advantages and disadvantages of the available options, painting a comprehensive picture of the commuting landscape.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is timely arrival at medical appointments. For residents of Moriah, the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The area’s vastness and limited public transit options make driving a necessity. The journey to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the scenic but sometimes winding roads.

One of the primary arteries for accessing healthcare is the Northway (I-87). This major highway provides a relatively direct route to larger medical centers in Plattsburgh (approximately 45 miles north) and Glens Falls (around 75 miles south). However, during peak travel times or inclement weather, the Northway can experience congestion, potentially delaying critical medical appointments.

From Moriah, the drive to Plattsburgh generally takes around an hour, while the trip to Glens Falls can extend to approximately an hour and a half. Secondary roads, such as US Route 9 and NY Route 22, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and may be subject to seasonal closures. These roads are crucial for accessing smaller, local medical practices and pharmacies within the region.

Public transportation options in Moriah are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of regular bus routes or other forms of public transport necessitates reliance on alternative solutions.

While there is no dedicated public transit system operating within the immediate confines of Moriah, the availability of intercity bus services is a consideration. However, these services may not provide direct routes to medical facilities and often require transfers, adding to the overall travel time and complexity. The lack of ADA-accessible features on existing bus routes further compounds the challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas, but their availability in Moriah is inconsistent. The rural nature of the area and the limited population density may result in longer wait times and higher fares. These services, while potentially useful, cannot be considered a reliable primary mode of transportation for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with specific needs. These services, which include ambulances, non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, and volunteer driver programs, are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Moriah may be limited, and the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents.

Several medical transport brands operate in the surrounding region, offering various levels of service. These include private ambulance companies, which provide emergency medical transport, and NEMT providers, which offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific provider.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 12960 is affected by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles presents a significant advantage, offering flexibility and direct access to healthcare facilities. However, the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions, as well as the cost of vehicle ownership and maintenance, can negatively impact access.

The limited public transit options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create barriers for those without personal vehicles. This disparity in access can exacerbate existing health disparities and limit the ability of certain segments of the population to receive timely medical care. The availability of medical transportation services is a crucial element, yet it is often associated with higher costs and potential logistical challenges.

The health score is also influenced by the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities. While larger medical centers are accessible via the Northway, smaller, local practices may be located on secondary roads, requiring longer travel times and potentially increasing the risk of delays. The availability of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within the immediate vicinity of Moriah is also a crucial consideration.

Moving to Moriah, residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the impact on healthcare access. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should research the availability of medical transportation services and factor in potential travel times and costs. Those with personal vehicles should prioritize regular maintenance and consider the potential for delays due to traffic or weather.

Ultimately, the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 12960 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative transportation options create challenges. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and enhanced medical transportation services would significantly improve the overall health score and promote better health outcomes for all residents of Moriah.