13694, Waddington, New York Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 13694, Waddington, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.95 percent of residents in 13694 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Massena Hospital Inc with a distance of 14.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Waddington, NY (ZIP Code 13694)

The serene village of Waddington, New York, nestled along the St. Lawrence River, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing its "Overall Health Score" requires a deep dive into a critical factor: healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, a crucial element influencing residents' ability to reach medical services. Understanding the commute to healthcare is paramount for anyone considering moving to Waddington, ensuring their well-being.

Waddington, with its population of approximately 2,000, presents a unique challenge regarding healthcare access. While the village itself boasts some local resources, the availability of specialized care and comprehensive medical facilities necessitates travel. This analysis considers the primary modes of transportation available to residents, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each will be scrutinized for its efficiency, accessibility, and potential impact on the overall health score.

The cornerstone of transportation in Waddington, as with much of rural New York, is the private vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The nearest hospital, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, is approximately 20 miles away. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, primarily utilizing **New York State Route 37** and, in some cases, **New York State Route 37C**. Traffic is generally light, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, potentially extending commutes and increasing the risk of accidents.

Further afield, specialized care may require travel to larger cities like Watertown or Syracuse. Watertown, about 70 miles away, could take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours via **Interstate 81** and **New York State Route 37**. Syracuse, roughly 150 miles away, demands a journey of 2.5 to 3 hours, primarily using **Interstate 81**. These extended drive times highlight the potential for increased stress, fatigue, and the financial burden of fuel costs, all of which can negatively impact the overall health score.

Public transportation options are limited in Waddington. The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system provides some services, but routes and schedules may be infrequent. This system primarily serves the needs of the elderly and disabled. Service to Ogdensburg is available, but the frequency of buses is limited, and the travel time is significantly longer than driving. The lack of frequent and reliable public transit poses a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, potentially limiting their healthcare access.

The St. Lawrence County Public Transit system is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules still present challenges. It is essential for potential residents to investigate the specific routes and schedules to determine if they meet their individual healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which can be sparse in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. Relying on ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation to healthcare is not a dependable solution in Waddington.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region, including ambulance services and private transport companies. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly. The availability and cost of medical transport are essential considerations for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring regular medical appointments.

The overall health score for Waddington, concerning healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While the village itself offers some local resources, the need for travel to access specialized care and comprehensive facilities is undeniable. The reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score.

The impact of the commute on the overall health score is further compounded by factors such as weather conditions, the cost of fuel, and the physical and mental strain of long drives. Residents without personal vehicles face significant barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments.

For those considering moving to Waddington, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of medical transport services is essential for making an informed decision. This analysis suggests that while Waddington offers a peaceful lifestyle, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered when evaluating the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare is a critical factor in determining the quality of life. The limitations in transportation options within Waddington can negatively impact the overall health score. The need for reliable transportation is paramount for those seeking medical care. The availability of medical transport services is a critical lifeline for those with limited mobility.

To improve the overall health score, efforts could focus on enhancing public transit options, promoting ride-sharing availability, and supporting the growth of medical transport services. These initiatives would improve healthcare access for all residents, particularly those without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The implementation of these improvements would significantly improve the quality of life and make Waddington an even more attractive place to live.