13682, Rodman, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13682, Rodman, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.40 percent of residents in 13682 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Samaritan Medical Center with a distance of 8.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rodman, NY (ZIP Code 13682)

Rodman, New York, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering its residents' overall health score. The primary factor influencing this score is the accessibility of healthcare services, inextricably linked to the available transportation options. Understanding the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount to assessing their overall well-being. This write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare within ZIP code 13682, providing a detailed analysis of drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transportation options.

The geographical reality of Rodman, a rural community, significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. The most direct routes involve navigating the network of highways and roads, primarily utilizing New York State Route 12 (NY-12), a major north-south artery, and County Route 13 (CR-13), which offers a more local connection. The time required to reach healthcare facilities is a critical determinant of the health score, influencing everything from preventative care to emergency response.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination. Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, approximately 15 miles north via NY-12, represents a common destination. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 20-25 minutes. This is generally considered a reasonable commute. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snowfall common in the region, or during peak traffic hours, travel times can significantly increase, potentially delaying critical care.

Another frequently utilized healthcare destination is Carthage Area Hospital, situated about 25 miles south via NY-12. This drive typically consumes 35-40 minutes. While manageable, the longer travel time necessitates more planning and can be a barrier to accessing care for those with mobility limitations or without reliable transportation. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter, can further complicate travel.

Public transportation options within Rodman and the surrounding areas are limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) system provides some service, but routes and schedules are sparse in rural areas like Rodman. Currently, there are no direct bus routes serving the immediate vicinity of Rodman. Residents seeking public transportation must travel to a larger town, such as Watertown or Carthage, to access JCT routes. This adds significant time and complexity to healthcare commutes, potentially discouraging those without personal vehicles from seeking necessary medical attention.

The lack of robust public transportation poses a particular challenge for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. While JCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, the limited route coverage makes them impractical for many residents of Rodman. The absence of readily available public transportation disproportionately impacts the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those who cannot drive, exacerbating existing health disparities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area, but their presence in Rodman is less reliable. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Booking a ride-share from Rodman to Watertown or Carthage is possible, but the wait times can be unpredictable, and the cost may be prohibitive for some residents. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to accessing healthcare, particularly for urgent medical needs.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several providers serve Jefferson County, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. These services cater to individuals who are unable to drive themselves or utilize public transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, potentially creating a financial burden for some residents.

Several medical transportation brands operate in the area, including ambulance services like Jefferson County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and private companies that offer non-emergency medical transport. These companies provide door-to-door service, ensuring patients are safely transported to their appointments. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs can vary, impacting the accessibility of healthcare for different segments of the population.

The overall health score for Rodman residents is directly influenced by the transportation challenges they face. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation all contribute to a lower score. These factors can delay or prevent individuals from accessing timely and appropriate medical care, impacting their health outcomes.

For those considering moving to Rodman, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. While the area offers a tranquil, rural lifestyle, the practicalities of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. Prospective residents, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or limited mobility, should assess their ability to manage the travel requirements for medical appointments. Careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options are essential for maintaining good health in this community.

Improving the overall health score for Rodman requires addressing the transportation challenges. This could involve expanding public transportation routes, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, or subsidizing medical transportation for low-income residents. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and winter weather preparedness, would also improve access to healthcare. These efforts would enhance the well-being of Rodman residents and make the community more attractive to those seeking a rural lifestyle without sacrificing healthcare access.