13760, Endicott, New York Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 13760, Endicott, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.88 percent of residents in 13760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.22 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Endicott (ZIP Code 13760)

Considering a move to Endicott, New York (ZIP Code 13760), and managing arthritis? This Arthritis Score assesses the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on transportation options crucial for regular appointments and treatments. We delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for individuals with mobility challenges.

Endicott, nestled in the Southern Tier, presents a unique landscape. While offering a relatively affordable cost of living, its healthcare infrastructure, especially concerning specialized arthritis care, requires careful consideration. This analysis prioritizes accessibility, recognizing the importance of convenient and reliable transportation for those with arthritis.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary artery for vehicular travel in Endicott is **Interstate 86 (I-86)**, which offers a direct route to larger medical centers in Binghamton. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. For example, traveling from the heart of Endicott to **United Health Services (UHS) Binghamton General Hospital**, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via I-86 West.

Another significant route is **Route 17C**, which intersects with I-86 and provides access to various medical offices and specialists within Endicott and neighboring towns. Expect similar travel times to UHS facilities, and consider potential congestion on Route 17C, especially near commercial areas.

Smaller medical practices and clinics are often accessible via local roads like **North Street**, **East Main Street**, and **Union Road**. These routes, while shorter in distance, can be slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. Always factor in extra time for parking, especially if mobility is a concern.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) provides public transportation within the area. Several bus routes serve Endicott, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, accessibility for individuals with arthritis requires careful evaluation.

**Route 7** is a key route, traversing through Endicott and connecting to Binghamton. Buses typically operate on a regular schedule, but frequency may be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This route is essential for accessing healthcare facilities in Binghamton.

**Route 6** also provides service within Endicott, connecting to various points within the town. Consider this route for accessing local medical offices and pharmacies.

It is crucial to confirm the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of each bus route. All BCT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, but availability can vary. Confirming the presence of these features and their operational status is essential before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Endicott area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, availability can fluctuate, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand should be considered.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several providers serve the Endicott area, including **CareRide** and **First Transit**. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Assessment**

While Endicott offers a range of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized arthritis care requires investigation. Researching the presence of rheumatologists, physical therapists, and pain management specialists is essential. Contacting local hospitals and clinics directly can provide valuable information regarding specialist availability and appointment scheduling.

Consider the proximity of pharmacies to your chosen healthcare providers. Convenient access to medication refills is crucial for managing arthritis. Explore the availability of home delivery services offered by local pharmacies.

**The Arthritis Score: A Summary**

Endicott presents a mixed bag for healthcare access, particularly concerning transportation. Driving provides the most direct access to healthcare facilities, but traffic and parking limitations should be considered. Public transit offers an alternative, but route frequency and ADA compliance must be verified. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but availability and cost should be factored in.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Arthritis:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When considering a move, prioritize housing locations with convenient access to medical facilities and pharmacies.
* **Assess public transit:** Thoroughly investigate BCT routes, confirming ADA compliance and schedule reliability.
* **Explore ride-sharing:** Familiarize yourself with Uber and Lyft availability and pricing in the area.
* **Research medical transport:** Investigate medical transport options and their eligibility requirements.
* **Contact healthcare providers:** Contact local hospitals and clinics to determine the availability of specialized arthritis care and appointment scheduling processes.
* **Plan ahead:** Always factor in extra travel time, especially for appointments and pharmacy visits.
* **Consider accessibility:** When choosing a residence, assess the accessibility features, such as ramps, elevators, and accessible parking.

Moving to Endicott with arthritis requires proactive planning. By carefully assessing transportation options, researching healthcare providers, and understanding the local healthcare landscape, individuals can successfully navigate the challenges and ensure access to the care they need. The Arthritis Score emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, ensuring a move to Endicott supports a healthy and fulfilling life.