13435, Prospect, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13435, Prospect, New York is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.50 percent of residents in 13435 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rome Memorial Hospital, Inc with a distance of 15.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Prospect, NY (ZIP Code 13435)

Prospect, New York, nestled within the rolling hills of Oneida County, offers a tranquil escape. But for residents managing asthma, the serenity of rural living must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This analysis, the “Asthma Score,” examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 13435, focusing on how easily individuals can reach vital medical services. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Prospect, ensuring they can maintain consistent care.

The Asthma Score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating their accessibility and suitability for individuals with respiratory conditions. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare, a critical factor for asthma sufferers.

**Driving Distances and Roadways: The Personal Transportation Landscape**

The primary mode of transportation in Prospect is the personal vehicle. The ability to drive oneself or be driven is often the most direct route to healthcare. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and prevailing traffic conditions.

The nearest major medical facilities are located in Rome, NY, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive. The most direct route typically involves traveling south on **New York State Route 26**, a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. This route provides relatively smooth access, though winter weather can pose challenges.

Another option involves utilizing **New York State Route 46** to connect to **New York State Route 49**, which then leads to Rome. This route is slightly longer, adding about 5 to 10 minutes to the commute. While Route 49 is a divided highway, the initial segment on Route 46 can be slower, particularly if encountering farm equipment or local traffic.

For those seeking specialized care or facilities in Utica, NY, the drive is considerably longer, approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This journey necessitates navigating **New York State Route 26** south, connecting to **New York State Thruway (I-90)** east. The Thruway, while efficient, requires tolls and can be subject to congestion, especially during rush hour or on weekends.

The condition of these roadways, especially during winter, is a key consideration. Snow and ice can significantly impact drive times and pose safety risks for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score must acknowledge the potential for delays and the importance of vehicle maintenance and preparedness.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation options in Prospect are limited. The primary provider of public transit in Oneida County is the **Rome Transit System (RTS)**. However, RTS service in Prospect is minimal, primarily offering routes that connect to Rome.

The **RTS Route 1** serves the Rome area, and it may provide limited access to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the route may not directly serve all medical providers. The accessibility of the RTS system for individuals with asthma is a crucial consideration. All RTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations. However, individuals with severe asthma may find the crowded environment of public transit challenging.

The Asthma Score acknowledges the challenges of relying solely on public transit in Prospect. The limited service frequency and potential for exposure to allergens and irritants on buses necessitate careful planning and consideration.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. The cost and reliability of these services should be carefully evaluated. They offer a potential alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

Medical transportation services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. Some of the medical transportation brands serving the area include **CareRide** and **First Transit**.

The Asthma Score considers the availability, cost, and reliability of these services. The ability to arrange transportation in advance is crucial, particularly for appointments and treatments.

**Healthcare Access Considerations: Beyond Transportation**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves several other factors. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services is paramount. Prospect has limited healthcare facilities within the ZIP code.

The nearest hospitals are located in Rome and Utica. The ability to quickly access emergency care is critical for asthma sufferers. The Asthma Score considers the response times of emergency medical services (EMS) and the availability of ambulance services in the area.

The availability of pharmacies and the ease of prescription refills are also essential. The Asthma Score assesses the proximity of pharmacies and the convenience of obtaining medications.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Evaluation**

The Asthma Score for Prospect (ZIP code 13435) is not a single number but a holistic assessment of the transportation and healthcare landscape. It acknowledges the challenges of rural living, including limited public transit and potentially longer drive times to medical facilities.

The score weighs the advantages of personal vehicle transportation against the potential disadvantages of weather-related delays and the need for careful planning. It considers the limited but existing public transit options and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The Asthma Score also considers the importance of emergency services, pharmacy access, and the overall availability of healthcare providers. It provides a framework for individuals with asthma to assess the suitability of Prospect as a place to live, ensuring they can maintain consistent access to the medical care they need.

**Moving to Prospect: Informed Decision-Making**

For those considering moving to Prospect, the Asthma Score provides valuable information for informed decision-making. Understanding the transportation options, healthcare access, and potential challenges allows individuals to plan accordingly.

It is crucial to assess personal transportation capabilities, evaluate the reliability of ride-sharing services, and explore the availability of medical transportation options. Understanding the local healthcare infrastructure, including the proximity of hospitals, pharmacies, and specialists, is essential.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether Prospect is the right place to call home. The Asthma Score empowers individuals to prioritize their healthcare needs and ensure they can thrive in this tranquil, yet sometimes challenging, rural environment.