12966, North Bangor, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12966, North Bangor, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.71 percent of residents in 12966 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Hyde Medical Center with a distance of 6.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12966

The quaint village of North Bangor, nestled within ZIP Code 12966, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare access. Understanding the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities is crucial for evaluating overall health and well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for this community.

The foundation of healthcare access in North Bangor rests upon the efficiency of transportation. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles, navigating the network of roads that weave through the Adirondack foothills. Drive times become a primary factor, directly impacting the speed and convenience of reaching medical appointments. While the scenic beauty of the region is undeniable, the distance to specialized care and emergency services must be carefully considered.

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of North Bangor are the state routes. Route 11, a major thoroughfare, connects North Bangor to the larger towns of Malone and Massena, offering access to hospitals, specialist clinics, and urgent care facilities. Route 11B provides a more direct route to the south, though it may be subject to seasonal conditions. The journey to these facilities can vary significantly depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare provider.

For example, a trip to Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone, a critical healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 11. The drive to Massena Memorial Hospital, also a vital resource, is roughly the same distance. However, during peak commuting hours or in adverse weather, these travel times can easily double, impacting access to timely medical attention. Residents considering moving to North Bangor should factor these drive times into their overall health planning.

Public transportation, while present, plays a more limited role in healthcare access within this ZIP code. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system offers bus routes that serve the region, but the frequency and coverage may not be ideal for all medical appointments. Route 11, for instance, may be served by a bus line, but the schedule may not align with the urgent needs of medical care.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. While the St. Lawrence County Public Transit system is committed to ADA compliance, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, the availability of accessible routes and the ease of transferring between routes can still pose challenges for some residents. This is particularly relevant for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical equipment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence may be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in rural locations, can be unpredictable. This can create significant challenges for residents who rely on ride-sharing for transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another layer of support. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, can be invaluable for individuals who are unable to drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting the affordability of healthcare access.

Several medical transport brands operate within the region, including those affiliated with local hospitals and private ambulance services. These services typically cater to patients with specific medical needs, such as those requiring wheelchair assistance or those needing stretcher transport. The cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" for North Bangor, in terms of healthcare access, is therefore a multifaceted assessment. It is not simply a matter of distance, but a complex interplay of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. The remoteness of the area, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, presents challenges when it comes to accessing timely and convenient medical care.

Considering the drive times to major medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potentially unreliable availability of ride-sharing services, the "Overall Health Score" for North Bangor, in the context of healthcare access, is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare providers, the transportation infrastructure presents some hurdles.

For individuals considering moving to North Bangor, it is crucial to carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the available transportation options. Those with chronic medical conditions or those requiring frequent specialist appointments should carefully consider the drive times and the potential for transportation challenges. Planning for potential delays, exploring the availability of medical transportation services, and establishing a network of support are essential strategies for ensuring access to healthcare in this community.

The overall health of the residents in North Bangor is directly linked to the efficiency and reliability of their transportation options. The community benefits from the availability of healthcare providers in nearby towns, but the distance and the challenges associated with transportation must be acknowledged. A proactive approach to healthcare planning, including a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape, is paramount for maintaining a high quality of life in this charming Adirondack village. The "Overall Health Score" is therefore a dynamic measure, constantly evolving with improvements in transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services.