13691, Theresa, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13691, Theresa, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.94 percent of residents in 13691 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is River Hospital Clinics with a distance of 10.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Theresa, NY (ZIP Code 13691)

Theresa, New York, nestled in the heart of the North Country, offers a tranquil lifestyle. The community’s overall health, however, is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis examines the available **transportation** options for residents of ZIP Code 13691, focusing on the challenges and opportunities they present in reaching medical facilities. We will assess the commute times, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, culminating in an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of **healthcare access** for those living in this rural area. This information is crucial for anyone **moving to Theresa**, ensuring they understand the practical realities of accessing vital medical services.

The primary factor impacting healthcare access in Theresa is its relative isolation. The nearest major medical centers are located in Watertown, approximately 20 miles to the south, and Ogdensburg, about 40 miles to the north. The drive to Watertown, the most common destination for medical needs, typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating Route 26, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Watertown. Route 37, the main artery to Ogdensburg, is a longer drive, often taking around an hour, with similar traffic considerations.

The journey to Watertown via Route 26 involves passing through several smaller towns and villages, which can impact travel times. The road conditions are generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly extend commute times. Snow and ice are common during the colder months, necessitating caution and potentially requiring all-wheel drive vehicles. The availability of emergency services along these routes is good, but response times can be affected by the distance and the rural nature of the area.

Public transit options in Theresa are limited. Jefferson County, where Theresa is located, does offer a public transit system, but its reach is restricted. The primary route relevant to Theresa residents is the Watertown-Theresa route, operated by the Jefferson County Transit. This service operates on a limited schedule, typically with a few runs per day, and may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The buses are generally ADA-accessible, providing ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequent service and potential for long wait times pose a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in the North Country. Availability in Theresa is sporadic, and wait times can be considerable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments, making it a less viable option for many residents. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as drivers may be unavailable or unwilling to travel to such a rural location.

Specialized medical transport services are available in the region, primarily for patients requiring ambulance transport or non-emergency medical transportation. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, with response times varying depending on the location and the severity of the situation. Non-emergency medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or private providers, can provide transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

The availability of medical facilities within Theresa itself is minimal. The town primarily relies on primary care physicians and a small local clinic. For specialized care, residents must travel to Watertown or Ogdensburg. This reliance on external facilities underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** options. The lack of local medical specialists and the need to travel for specialized care contribute to the overall challenge of **healthcare access**.

The economic factors also play a role in **healthcare access**. The cost of car ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, can be a significant burden for low-income residents. The cost of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport can also be prohibitive. These financial constraints can create barriers to accessing necessary medical care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

The demographic characteristics of Theresa also impact **healthcare access**. The aging population, with its increased need for medical care, faces greater challenges due to mobility limitations and reliance on others for **transportation**. The rural nature of the area, with its limited public transit options and long distances to medical facilities, exacerbates these challenges. The needs of the elderly population must be carefully considered when assessing the overall health of the community.

The availability of technology can play a role in mitigating some of the **transportation** challenges. Telemedicine, for example, allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, access to reliable internet service is essential for telemedicine, and this can be a challenge in some rural areas. The use of telehealth can improve **healthcare access** for residents of Theresa, but its effectiveness depends on the availability of technology and the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace it.

**Overall Health Score:**

Considering all the factors, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Theresa, NY (ZIP Code 13691) is a **6 out of 10**. This score reflects a moderate level of accessibility, with significant challenges.

**Strengths:**

* Relatively short drive times to Watertown (25-40 minutes).
* Availability of ambulance services for emergencies.
* Some availability of non-emergency medical transportation.

**Weaknesses:**

* Limited public transit options with infrequent service.
* Sporadic availability of ride-sharing services.
* Longer drive times to Ogdensburg (approximately one hour).
* Dependence on personal vehicles, creating a barrier for those without them.
* Winter weather conditions can significantly impact travel times.
* Limited local medical facilities, requiring travel for specialized care.
* Economic factors, such as the cost of **transportation**, can create further barriers.

**Recommendations:**

* Improve public transit frequency and route coverage, potentially including a dedicated medical shuttle.
* Encourage the expansion of ride-sharing services in the area.
* Promote the use of telemedicine to reduce the need for travel.
* Explore partnerships with community organizations to provide **transportation** assistance to those in need.
* Invest in infrastructure improvements to Route 26 and Route 37, focusing on safety and traffic flow.
* Support programs that assist with the cost of **transportation** for medical appointments.
* Expand local medical services, even if it is a satellite clinic.

For anyone **moving to Theresa**, understanding these **transportation** limitations and proactively planning for healthcare needs is crucial. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, the challenges of **healthcare access** must be carefully considered. This assessment provides a clear picture of the current situation, highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve **healthcare access** for all residents of ZIP Code 13691.