13606, Adams Center, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13606, Adams Center, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.64 percent of residents in 13606 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Adams Center, NY (ZIP Code 13606)

Adams Center, New York, a charming hamlet nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique tapestry of rural living and access to essential services. Assessing the overall health score within ZIP code 13606 necessitates a deep dive into its transportation infrastructure and the ease with which residents can access healthcare. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Adams Center.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Adams Center is, undoubtedly, the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents with personal vehicles, the primary routes to healthcare centers involve navigating the local road network. The most direct route to Watertown, the nearest city with significant healthcare resources, is via NY-11, a major north-south artery. Travel time to Samaritan Medical Center, a primary healthcare provider, typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Other key roads impacting healthcare access include County Route 75, which offers alternative routes to Watertown and surrounding areas. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience seasonal variations in driving conditions, particularly during the harsh winters common to upstate New York. Residents should be mindful of snow and ice, which can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks.

Public transportation options in Adams Center are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve Adams Center or offer frequent connections to healthcare facilities. Riders should carefully review the JCTS schedule to identify routes that align with their healthcare needs.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on JCTS buses is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. The JCTS strives to provide accessible transportation, but it is crucial to confirm the availability of accessible routes and features, such as ramps and designated seating, when planning healthcare-related trips. This is especially important for residents considering moving to Adams Center.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Adams Center and surrounding rural areas may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours. Residents should verify the availability of ride-sharing services before relying on them for healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, may include ambulance services, non-emergency medical transport, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking.

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 13606 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Watertown and the availability of personal vehicle transportation offer relatively good access to healthcare, the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services pose challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, primarily via NY-11 and County Route 75, are generally reasonable, making healthcare access feasible for most residents with personal vehicles. However, the potential for increased travel times due to weather conditions, especially during winter months, should be factored into the overall health score. This is a crucial aspect to consider for individuals moving to Adams Center.

The absence of readily available public transportation options presents a significant barrier for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The limited routes and schedules of the JCTS, coupled with potential accessibility concerns, can hinder healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The reliance on ride-sharing services, while potentially helpful, is subject to availability constraints in Adams Center and surrounding areas. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can undermine the reliability of this transportation option for healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services offer a valuable solution for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. However, the associated costs and the need for advance booking may limit their accessibility for some residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 13606 reflects a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the proximity to Watertown and the relative ease of driving to healthcare facilities contribute positively to the score, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the costs associated with medical transport services introduce challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Adams Center, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is crucial. Residents without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability of alternative transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.

Furthermore, the impact of seasonal weather conditions on travel times and road safety should be considered. Winter weather, in particular, can significantly affect transportation and healthcare access, requiring residents to plan accordingly.

The overall health score for Adams Center, NY (ZIP code 13606) is a reflection of the community's commitment to balancing the needs of its residents with the realities of rural living. While the area offers a peaceful environment and a strong sense of community, residents must carefully consider the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access challenges before making a move. The availability of diverse transportation options and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access will ultimately determine the overall health and well-being of the community.