13776, Gilbertsville, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13776, Gilbertsville, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.64 percent of residents in 13776 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chenango Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Gilbertsville (ZIP Code 13776)

The quaint village of Gilbertsville, nestled in the verdant hills of upstate New York (ZIP Code 13776), offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This Asthma Score write-up delves into the complexities of commuting to medical facilities from Gilbertsville, analyzing the available **transportation** options and their potential impact on patients. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents and those considering **moving to Gilbertsville**, ensuring they can effectively manage their respiratory health.

The primary challenge for residents of Gilbertsville lies in its relative remoteness. The nearest significant medical centers are located in Oneonta, Norwich, and Cooperstown, each presenting unique commuting challenges. The **healthcare access** landscape is significantly influenced by the limited public **transportation** infrastructure, making personal vehicles the dominant mode of travel. This reliance on cars necessitates a thorough understanding of drive times, road conditions, and the potential for traffic delays, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The most direct route to Oneonta, a city offering a wider array of medical specialists and services, involves traveling east on County Route 10. This scenic drive, approximately 20 miles, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, particularly weekdays, congestion around the State University of New York at Oneonta (SUNY Oneonta) can extend commute times. Road closures due to weather, especially during the winter months, are also a significant concern, potentially isolating residents and hindering access to essential medical care.

For those seeking healthcare in Norwich, a journey of approximately 25 miles, the most common route involves heading west on County Route 10 and then transitioning onto New York State Route 23. This route, while generally less congested than the Oneonta corridor, can still be subject to delays, especially around the intersections with major highways. The drive typically takes around 40-50 minutes, offering a slightly longer travel time than the Oneonta option.

Cooperstown, renowned for its medical facilities, including Bassett Healthcare Network, is another viable destination. The journey from Gilbertsville to Cooperstown, approximately 28 miles, involves navigating a combination of County Route 10 and New York State Route 28. This route, while picturesque, often involves navigating winding roads and potential for delays due to tourist traffic, particularly during the summer months. The drive time typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Public **transportation** options in Gilbertsville are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly restricts **healthcare access** for individuals without personal vehicles. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes serving Gilbertsville. This absence of public transit disproportionately impacts those with asthma, especially those who may be elderly, disabled, or unable to drive due to their condition. The absence of public transit highlights the need for alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the region, but their availability in Gilbertsville is often sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Securing a ride can be challenging, and the cost can be substantial, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services is therefore a significant concern for asthma patients who require consistent and dependable **transportation** to their medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation** services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services, while offering a valuable alternative, often require advance booking and can be expensive, adding to the financial burden of managing asthma. The availability of these services is a critical consideration for individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility features on public **transportation**. However, the absence of a public transit system in Gilbertsville renders these provisions moot. The lack of accessible **transportation** options further exacerbates the challenges faced by asthma patients, especially those with mobility impairments. The absence of ADA-compliant options significantly limits **healthcare access** for a vulnerable segment of the population.

The road conditions in the region can pose additional challenges for asthma patients. The presence of potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces can contribute to vehicle vibrations, potentially triggering asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the use of road salt during winter months can release particulate matter into the air, further exacerbating respiratory issues. The quality of road maintenance is therefore a crucial factor in assessing the **transportation** environment for asthma patients.

The air quality within the **transportation** environment is another significant concern. Vehicle exhaust emissions, particularly from older vehicles, can contain pollutants that trigger asthma attacks. The use of air conditioning in vehicles, while providing relief from heat, can also recirculate allergens and irritants. Therefore, asthma patients must be mindful of air quality both inside and outside their vehicles.

For individuals **moving to Gilbertsville** with asthma, the availability of local pharmacies is a crucial factor. Access to pharmacies for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications is essential for managing the condition. The proximity of pharmacies, along with their operating hours, should be carefully considered when assessing the suitability of Gilbertsville as a place of residence.

The Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in Gilbertsville is significantly impacted by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to a challenging environment for asthma patients. The absence of public transit and the potential for road closures and traffic delays further exacerbate these challenges. While Gilbertsville offers a tranquil lifestyle, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the **healthcare access** limitations before making a move, prioritizing their respiratory health and well-being. This assessment emphasizes the critical need for improved **transportation** solutions to ensure that residents with asthma can readily access the medical care they need.