13639, Fine, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13639, Fine, New York is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13639 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clifton Fine Hospital with a distance of 6.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 13639

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare within ZIP Code 13639, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. The goal is to paint a clear picture of healthcare accessibility, a critical element when considering moving to a new area.

ZIP Code 13639, encompassing the town of Fine, New York, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature and relative isolation. The vast, forested landscape and limited population density significantly influence transportation options and, consequently, healthcare access. This isolation is a crucial factor in determining the Overall Health Score.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Fine is the personal vehicle. The road network, however, is limited. The main thoroughfare is New York State Route 3, which runs east-west, connecting Fine to larger towns and cities. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics requires navigating this route, with travel times varying significantly depending on the destination.

For instance, a drive to Canton-Potsdam Hospital, approximately 30 miles away, typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey primarily utilizes NY-3. Further, the drive to the Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, about 70 miles away, can take up to 1.5 to 2 hours, involving NY-3 and then NY-37. These long drive times can be a significant barrier to accessing timely care, particularly in emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions.

The quality of roads, especially during winter months, poses an additional challenge. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, further extending travel times and potentially delaying access to crucial medical services. Residents must be prepared for these seasonal variations, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 13639 are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town itself. This lack of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive. This absence is a major factor in the Overall Health Score.

The nearest public transit options are located in larger towns like Canton or Potsdam, which may offer limited bus services. However, these services are often infrequent and may not directly connect to healthcare facilities. Furthermore, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a concern. The availability of buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as ramps and lifts, is essential, but the lack of a comprehensive system makes it difficult to ensure adequate access for all residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in Fine, further limiting transportation options. This absence exacerbates the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare. The nearest areas with ride-sharing availability are likely in larger towns, making it impractical for short-distance trips to local medical facilities.

Medical transportation services are available, but their availability and cost vary. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but these are not a solution for routine appointments. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as local ambulance services or private companies, offer transportation to medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may be subject to high fees, particularly for longer distances. These costs can be a significant burden for individuals with limited financial resources, further impacting their ability to access healthcare.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access:**

The healthcare landscape in and around ZIP Code 13639 includes a combination of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and hospitals. The availability of these facilities impacts the Overall Health Score. While there may be local primary care providers, specialized medical services are often located in larger towns and cities.

The distance to hospitals and specialist clinics is a major factor in healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit mean that residents must be prepared for long travel times. This is particularly concerning for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The lack of readily available transportation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially impacting their health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in ZIP Code 13639 is moderate to low. The long drive times, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for hazardous road conditions further complicate the situation.

To improve healthcare access, several recommendations can be considered. First, exploring the feasibility of establishing a limited public transit system, even if only on a dial-a-ride basis, would significantly benefit residents. Second, promoting the use of telemedicine and virtual consultations could reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments. Third, expanding non-emergency medical transportation options and exploring partnerships with local organizations could help address the transportation needs of vulnerable populations. Finally, encouraging the development of telehealth services and mobile healthcare units could bring healthcare closer to residents.

Moving to Fine, NY, requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access challenges. While the area offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the limitations in healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits. The Overall Health Score reflects the need for proactive solutions to improve the health and well-being of residents in this unique and geographically isolated community. The community’s ability to adapt and find solutions will be critical to ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.