13643, Great Bend, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13643, Great Bend, New York is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 13643 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Carthage Area Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.83 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 13643

Moving to a new community, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands meticulous planning. Assessing healthcare access in ZIP Code 13643, encompassing the charming village of Great Bend, New York, requires a deep dive into transportation options. This analysis, an "Asthma Score," considers the ease and reliability of reaching medical facilities, crucial for managing this respiratory condition.

The primary focus is on accessing healthcare providers specializing in asthma care, including pulmonologists, allergists, and general practitioners equipped to manage the condition. This analysis prioritizes the practicalities of getting to appointments, considering potential stressors like traffic and the availability of accessible transportation.

**Driving the Distance: Roads and Realities**

The most common mode of transportation in Great Bend is the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on the network of roads to access essential services. The primary route to healthcare facilities in nearby Watertown, the regional hub for medical services, involves navigating a combination of state highways and local roads.

The most direct route to Watertown, approximately 10 miles, is via State Route 12. This two-lane highway offers a relatively straightforward drive, but traffic conditions can vary. Rush hour, typically between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can add significant time to the commute. Expect a drive time of 15 to 20 minutes under ideal conditions, but this can easily extend to 30 minutes or more during peak hours.

Alternatively, residents can utilize County Route 13, a more scenic route that offers a slightly longer, but often less congested, drive. This option might be preferable for those sensitive to traffic. However, the road quality on County Route 13 can be variable, especially during winter months. This route might add 5 to 10 minutes to the journey, depending on road conditions.

The drive to Carthage, another town with some medical facilities, is a longer trip. This involves using State Route 3, and the drive time can be around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities in Watertown is generally adequate, but can be challenging during peak hours. Consider the parking situation when scheduling appointments, especially if mobility is a concern.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Great Bend are limited. The Jefferson County Transit (JCT) provides bus service within Jefferson County, including routes that connect to Watertown. However, service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly for areas outside the immediate vicinity of Watertown.

The JCT offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. Riders with asthma should inquire about the bus's air filtration systems, as this could affect their comfort.

The JCT route numbers and schedules vary. Contacting the JCT directly is essential for the most up-to-date information on routes, schedules, and accessibility features. The limited public transportation options pose a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Watertown area. However, their availability in Great Bend itself can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation for regular medical appointments is questionable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or other special needs.

Researching the specific medical transportation providers operating in the area is crucial. Inquire about their services, including their ability to transport individuals with asthma, their safety protocols, and their pricing structure.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 13643 is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of healthcare access, considering the transportation challenges.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** The distance to pulmonologists, allergists, and general practitioners.
* **Transportation Options:** The availability and reliability of personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.
* **Traffic Conditions:** The impact of rush hour and seasonal variations on commute times.
* **Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant transportation options and the accessibility of healthcare facilities.
* **Cost:** The financial implications of transportation, including gas, public transit fares, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation costs.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of winter weather on road conditions and transportation reliability.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Asthma:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a home, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities.
* **Investigate medical transportation:** Research and identify reliable medical transportation providers.
* **Plan for contingencies:** Develop backup transportation plans in case of vehicle breakdowns or inclement weather.
* **Communicate with healthcare providers:** Discuss transportation challenges with your healthcare team and explore options for telehealth appointments or home visits.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transportation options in the region.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Moving to Great Bend presents a unique set of transportation challenges for individuals with asthma. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, the limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles demand careful planning.

The Asthma Score highlights the need for comprehensive research and proactive measures to ensure reliable access to healthcare. By understanding the transportation landscape, exploring available options, and planning for potential challenges, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the journey to healthcare and thrive in their new community. The ability to secure consistent healthcare access is a critical factor in making Great Bend a safe and healthy place to live.