13637, Evans Mills, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13637, Evans Mills, New York is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.84 percent of residents in 13637 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 7.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Evans Mills, NY (ZIP Code 13637)

Evans Mills, New York, a charming community nestled in Jefferson County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This assessment focuses on healthcare access, specifically examining the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation options within and around ZIP Code 13637. The ability to efficiently and reliably reach medical facilities is a cornerstone of well-being, and this analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the available transportation infrastructure.

The score considers factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Evans Mills, ensuring they can make an informed decision regarding their healthcare needs.

**The Geography of Care:**

Evans Mills, while offering a tranquil lifestyle, is somewhat geographically isolated. The nearest major healthcare hub is the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately 10 miles away. Other specialized care facilities may require travel to Syracuse or even Rochester, significantly extending commute times. This geographic reality necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options.

**Driving the Distance: The Road to Wellness:**

For residents of Evans Mills, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to Watertown involves navigating a combination of local roads and highways. Route 11, a major north-south artery, provides the most direct connection to Watertown. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Other routes include utilizing County Route 75, which offers alternative access to Route 11. However, these routes may be subject to seasonal closures or delays due to inclement weather, particularly during the harsh Upstate New York winters. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

The drive to Syracuse, a much longer journey, necessitates utilizing Interstate 81 (I-81). This trip can take upwards of two hours, making it a significant undertaking for routine appointments or urgent care needs. Similarly, a trip to Rochester would involve a longer drive along I-81 and potentially the New York State Thruway (I-90), extending travel times to three hours or more.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Evans Mills are limited. The Jefferson County Transit System (JCTS) provides bus services within the county, but the routes and schedules may not directly serve Evans Mills with frequent or convenient connections to healthcare facilities. The availability of accessible public transit options, including buses with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities (ADA features), is critical for ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

The JCTS operates several routes, and it is essential to consult their current schedule to determine the most viable options for reaching medical appointments. However, the limited frequency and potential for longer travel times often make public transit a less desirable option compared to personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, providing an alternative to personal vehicles. However, their availability in Evans Mills may be less consistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could increase costs. The reliability of these services is a crucial factor for those without personal transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with mobility limitations or other special needs, offer another solution. These services, such as local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. However, these services may require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of medical transport services is particularly crucial for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access and the 'Overall Health Score':**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Evans Mills is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport, presents both opportunities and obstacles.

The score considers the following:

* **Drive Time to Key Healthcare Facilities:** The relatively short drive to Watertown is a positive factor. However, the longer travel times to Syracuse or Rochester negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit Reliability and Accessibility:** The limited public transit options and potential accessibility issues (ADA compliance) reduce the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** The variable availability and potential for surge pricing with ride-sharing services slightly detract from the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor, but the associated costs and booking requirements need to be considered.
* **Road Conditions and Weather:** The impact of seasonal weather conditions on road safety and travel times is a significant consideration, particularly during winter months.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and improve healthcare access in Evans Mills, several recommendations can be considered.

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for increased frequency and expanded routes of the Jefferson County Transit System, particularly routes that directly serve healthcare facilities. Ensure all buses are fully ADA compliant.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Encourage the availability of ride-sharing services in the area and provide information on their cost and reliability.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Ensure residents are aware of available medical transport services and explore options for financial assistance.
* **Improve Road Maintenance:** Advocate for improved road maintenance, particularly during winter months, to ensure safe and reliable travel.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents about all available transportation options and how to access them.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Evans Mills, NY (ZIP Code 13637) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Watertown offers relatively easy access to local medical facilities, the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport create barriers for some residents. Anyone moving to Evans Mills should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential impact on their ability to access healthcare. By addressing the challenges and implementing the recommendations, the community can improve its 'Overall Health Score' and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.