13669, Ogdensburg, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13669, Ogdensburg, New York is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.15 percent of residents in 13669 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center with a distance of 1.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Ogdensburg, NY (ZIP Code 13669)

Ogdensburg, New York, nestled along the St. Lawrence River, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for this community necessitates a deep dive into the complexities of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis considers various factors, from drive times to public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately painting a picture of the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care for those **moving to Ogdensburg**.

The primary challenge in Ogdensburg, as with many rural areas, lies in the distance to healthcare facilities. The city's main hospital, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, is a central hub. However, specialized care and certain diagnostic services might necessitate travel to larger regional centers. The availability and efficiency of **transportation** become paramount in these scenarios.

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments. Residents primarily rely on the road network, including the major arteries of New York State Route 37 and New York State Route 68. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the harsh winters prevalent in this region. The drive time to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center from various points within the 13669 ZIP code typically ranges from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. Travel to larger regional centers like Syracuse or Ottawa, for specialized care, can extend drive times significantly, ranging from 2.5 to 4 hours.

Public transit options are limited in Ogdensburg. The Ogdensburg City Bus system offers a modest network of routes, primarily focused on local circulation within the city limits. These routes may provide some access to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center and other essential services. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not adequately serve all areas of the ZIP code. Furthermore, information regarding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on these buses is crucial. While the city is committed to providing accessible **transportation**, specific details on features like wheelchair lifts and designated seating should be readily available to residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Ogdensburg is another crucial factor. While these services are increasingly prevalent in many areas, their presence in rural communities can be inconsistent. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments outside standard business hours, may be limited. This scarcity can present a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those who are unable to drive.

Medical transport services play a vital role in bridging the gap for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several providers operate in the Ogdensburg area, offering non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services often utilize wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and comfortable travel. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services are frequently involved in this type of **transportation**. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant consideration for some residents, and insurance coverage varies.

The "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Ogdensburg is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the city offers a local hospital and some public transit options, the limitations of these services, coupled with the potential challenges of relying on ride-sharing or medical transport, create a mixed picture. The distance to regional healthcare centers, the potential for weather-related delays, and the economic considerations of **transportation** costs further complicate the assessment.

When considering **moving to Ogdensburg**, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and circumstances. Individuals with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should pay particular attention to the availability and affordability of medical **transportation** services. Those without personal vehicles should assess the reliability and accessibility of public transit and ride-sharing options.

The success of **healthcare access** in Ogdensburg depends on a collaborative approach. The city government, healthcare providers, and **transportation** companies must work together to improve the efficiency and accessibility of services. This could involve expanding public transit routes, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring affordable medical **transportation** options for all residents. Furthermore, promoting awareness of available resources and providing clear information about **transportation** options is essential.

The ultimate goal is to create a community where all residents, regardless of their physical limitations or financial circumstances, can easily access the medical care they need. This requires a holistic approach that considers not only the physical infrastructure of **transportation** but also the economic and social factors that influence **healthcare access**. By addressing these challenges, Ogdensburg can improve its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that its residents can live healthy and fulfilling lives.