12979, Rouses Point, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 12979, Rouses Point, New York is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.09 percent of residents in 12979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Medical Ctr with a distance of 20.45 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 12979 (Rouses Point, NY)

Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, Rouses Point, New York (ZIP Code 12979) presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, heavily influenced by the accessibility of healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure that dictates healthcare access, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and available medical transportation services. For those considering moving to Rouses Point, this analysis offers crucial insights into the practicalities of maintaining health and well-being.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Rouses Point is woven with the threads of transportation. The ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities directly impacts the health outcomes of residents. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of specialized transportation services all contribute to the overall health score. We will examine these elements to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in this charming lakeside community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in and around Rouses Point are the roadways. The strategic location of the town, close to the Canadian border, influences traffic patterns and travel times. Residents often rely on personal vehicles to reach medical appointments, making drive times a critical factor.

To the south, Route 9 is a major thoroughfare, connecting Rouses Point to Plattsburgh, the closest city with a comprehensive medical infrastructure. The drive to the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, a primary healthcare provider for the region, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive involves navigating Route 9, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours.

Heading west, Route 11 offers access to smaller towns and medical clinics. However, these facilities may offer a more limited range of services. Eastward, the proximity to the border with Canada provides another layer of complexity, with potential delays due to border crossings.

The condition of the roads, particularly during the harsh winter months, can significantly impact drive times and safety. Snow and ice can make travel hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical care. This factor must be considered when evaluating the overall health score.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Rouses Point are limited, posing a challenge for residents who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the overall health score.

The Clinton County Public Transportation System (CCPTS) provides some service within the county, but the routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare needs. Residents can contact CCPTS to inquire about routes and schedules that serve medical facilities. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can be a barrier to healthcare access.

The absence of extensive public transit necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation for those unable to drive. This further emphasizes the importance of assessing the availability and affordability of these alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Rouses Point is variable. While these services may be present, their availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This can present challenges for those needing immediate or scheduled medical transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues or other medical needs, offer a crucial lifeline. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

Understanding the cost and availability of these specialized services is critical for assessing the overall health score. The ability to secure reliable and affordable medical transportation directly impacts the ability of residents to attend appointments, access necessary treatments, and maintain their health.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 12979 can be characterized as moderate. While the proximity to Plattsburgh offers access to comprehensive medical facilities, the dependence on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The moderate score reflects the following:

* **Positive:** Proximity to Plattsburgh and CVPH offers access to a broad range of medical services.
* **Negative:** Limited public transit and ride-sharing options create transportation barriers.
* **Neutral:** The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial alternative, but costs and advance booking requirements must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Rouses Point, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the availability and affordability of medical transportation services. Understanding the potential for longer drive times during inclement weather and peak traffic hours is also crucial.

The overall health score is not static; it can be improved. Investments in public transportation, expansion of ride-sharing services, and increased awareness of medical transportation options could significantly enhance healthcare access for Rouses Point residents.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Rouses Point, NY, is a complex equation. While the location offers access to quality healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges. By carefully considering the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being. The future of healthcare access in Rouses Point hinges on ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can reach the medical care they need.