12464, Phoenicia, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 12464, Phoenicia, New York is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.92 percent of residents in 12464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Margaretville Memorial Hospital with a distance of 16.91 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in Phoenicia, NY (ZIP Code 12464)

The crisp mountain air of Phoenicia, New York, nestled in the heart of the Catskills, often beckons those seeking respite from urban life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, a move to this idyllic setting requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 12464, focusing on commute times to medical facilities, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions. It's designed to help prospective residents with asthma assess the practicalities of healthcare access, a crucial element in the decision-making process.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers in Phoenicia is the swiftness and reliability of transportation to healthcare providers. The nearest hospital, HealthAlliance Hospital – Mary's Avenue Campus, is located in Kingston, approximately 25 miles east. Driving along Route 28, the primary artery connecting Phoenicia to Kingston, usually takes around 40-50 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This road, while scenic, can experience congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. The winding nature of Route 28, traversing the mountainous terrain, also contributes to the drive time.

Another route to consider involves a combination of Route 28 and the New York State Thruway (I-87). This option might be faster if traffic on Route 28 is heavy, but it adds tolls to the equation. The Thruway exit closest to Phoenicia is Exit 19, located in Kingston. From there, navigating to the hospital involves local roads, potentially adding to the overall travel time. The presence of snow and ice during winter months can significantly impact drive times and road conditions, making reliable transportation even more critical.

Beyond the hospital, access to specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is a further consideration. These specialists are often located in Kingston or other larger towns and cities within the region. Drive times to these appointments will vary depending on the specific location and the route taken, but generally, they will be similar to the commute to the hospital.

Public transportation options in the Phoenicia area are limited. Ulster County Area Transit (UCAT) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to medical facilities. The primary UCAT route serving Phoenicia is the Route J, which runs along Route 28. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the schedule may not align with medical appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses should be confirmed when planning trips.

The lack of robust public transportation emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access. For individuals without a car, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, although their availability and reliability in a rural area like Phoenicia can be unpredictable. Response times might be longer than in more urban areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could significantly increase costs.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are readily available in case of emergencies. However, the response time will depend on the location of the emergency and the availability of ambulances. Non-emergency medical transportation services, which can provide scheduled transportation to medical appointments, are also available in the region. These services often require advance booking and may have specific limitations regarding the distance they cover.

The decision to move to Phoenicia, for an individual with asthma, requires a careful assessment of these transportation factors. The Asthma Score for healthcare access in this area is moderately impacted by the drive times, the limited public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing.

The absence of readily available public transit, combined with the potential for traffic delays on Route 28, presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of road conditions, particularly during winter. The accessibility and reliability of ride-sharing services should be investigated before making a move.

For individuals with severe asthma or those who require frequent medical attention, the remoteness of Phoenicia and the associated transportation challenges could be a significant concern. They should carefully weigh the benefits of the mountain lifestyle against the potential difficulties in accessing timely healthcare.

Conversely, individuals with well-managed asthma and access to a reliable vehicle might find Phoenicia a suitable place to live. They can plan their medical appointments accordingly, factoring in travel time and potential delays. The peace and tranquility of the Catskills could offer significant benefits to their overall well-being, potentially offsetting the transportation challenges.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Phoenicia's healthcare access is a nuanced assessment. It highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on the ability to receive timely and effective medical care. Potential residents with asthma should conduct thorough research, including contacting local healthcare providers, exploring transportation options, and considering their individual medical needs before making a decision about moving to Phoenicia.