13638, Felts Mills, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13638, Felts Mills, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.74 percent of residents in 13638 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Felts Mills (ZIP Code 13638)

Felts Mills, New York, a small community nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering the complexities of transportation, healthcare access, and the specific options available within and around the 13638 ZIP code. This score aims to assist prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Felts Mills, in understanding the realities of maintaining their well-being.

The score is not a simple numerical value but a comprehensive assessment, weighing factors like distance, mode of transportation, and the availability of specialized medical services. It considers the practicalities of daily life, acknowledging that healthcare access is not just about having a doctor but about the ability to reach them conveniently and affordably.

**Transportation: The Lifeline to Care**

Transportation is the cornerstone of healthcare access in Felts Mills. The geographic isolation of the area, coupled with limited public transit, necessitates a strong reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries for travel are New York State Route 12, a vital north-south corridor, and County Route 22, which provides east-west connectivity. These roads are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest hospitals, such as Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown (approximately 15 miles) and Carthage Area Hospital (around 18 miles), are accessible via these highways. However, the travel time can vary considerably depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Felts Mills. The average drive time to Watertown is about 20-30 minutes, while Carthage can take 25-35 minutes. These times are crucial considerations for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring urgent care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options are severely limited in the 13638 ZIP code. The Jefferson County Public Transit (JCPT) offers some service, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the broader county needs, with limited frequency and coverage in Felts Mills itself. There are no direct, regularly scheduled routes that serve the immediate area.

The lack of robust public transit presents significant challenges for individuals without personal vehicles, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of reliable public transportation can create a significant barrier to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed appointments, missed preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency services.

While JCPT strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility on its buses, the limited service area in Felts Mills reduces the practical benefit of these features for residents. Further, the JCPT's website and service information are not always easily accessible for those with limited computer skills.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Watertown area, but their availability in Felts Mills is inconsistent. The relatively low population density and the distance from urban centers can result in longer wait times and higher fares. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable and potentially expensive option for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including Ambulance Services of Watertown and Carthage Area Hospital EMS. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent or spontaneous medical needs.

**Specialized Healthcare and Considerations**

The availability of specialized healthcare services within Felts Mills is limited. Residents often need to travel to Watertown or other regional centers for specialist appointments, such as cardiology, dermatology, or oncology. This further increases the importance of reliable transportation.

The presence of Fort Drum, a major U.S. Army installation, near Felts Mills adds a unique dynamic. Military personnel and their families have access to healthcare services at the post, which can alleviate some of the pressure on the civilian healthcare system. However, this does not fully address the needs of the broader community, particularly those without military affiliations.

**Overall Health Score: A Nuanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for Felts Mills (13638) is moderate, reflecting the mixed picture of healthcare access. While the area benefits from proximity to hospitals and healthcare providers in Watertown and Carthage, the limitations in transportation significantly impact the score.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for many residents. The cost and availability of medical transportation services are significant factors.

For individuals considering moving to Felts Mills, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those without access to a personal vehicle, or with mobility limitations, may face significant hurdles in accessing timely and convenient healthcare.

**Recommendations and Future Considerations**

Improving healthcare access in Felts Mills requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, perhaps through expanded JCPT routes or on-demand services, would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access.

Increasing the availability of telehealth services, where appropriate, could reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and consultations. Supporting community-based health initiatives, such as mobile clinics or outreach programs, could bring healthcare services closer to residents.

The "Overall Health Score" for Felts Mills is not static. It is a reflection of the current realities and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers can work together to create a healthier community for everyone. The future of healthcare in Felts Mills hinges on addressing transportation barriers and ensuring that all residents can access the care they need.