13903, Binghamton, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 13903, Binghamton, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.88 percent of residents in 13903 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Health Services Hospitals, Inc with a distance of 0.89 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Binghamton’s 13903

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, a sentiment particularly acute for those considering a move to Binghamton, New York, and specifically, the 13903 ZIP code. This area, a tapestry woven with residential neighborhoods, commercial hubs, and the ever-present Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers, presents a unique challenge: healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. This write-up assesses the “Asthma Score” for 13903, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the realities of navigating healthcare within this community, helping potential residents make informed decisions.

The cornerstone of this assessment is understanding the time it takes to reach essential healthcare facilities. In the 13903, the primary destinations are United Health Services (UHS) Hospitals, including Wilson Medical Center on Mitchell Avenue, and Lourdes Hospital on Riverside Drive. These hospitals are the lifelines for acute asthma exacerbations, offering emergency care and specialized pulmonary services. Access to these facilities is critically dependent on transportation.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in Binghamton. The 13903 benefits from a relatively well-structured road network. However, rush hour congestion and weather conditions, especially during the harsh Upstate New York winters, can significantly impact drive times.

From many residential areas within 13903, reaching Wilson Medical Center involves navigating local roads such as Vestal Avenue and Court Street, before merging onto the busier routes. Direct access to the hospital is possible via the **NY-17/I-86** corridor, the primary east-west artery. During off-peak hours, the drive might take 10-15 minutes. However, during peak commuting times, this can easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, especially if there's an accident or inclement weather.

Lourdes Hospital, situated south of the city, is accessible via **Riverside Drive** and **NY-17/I-86**. The drive is generally shorter, about 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours. However, traffic on Riverside Drive can be heavy, especially near the university, and the **NY-17/I-86** corridor can experience delays.

The presence of these major highways offers a degree of convenience, but the variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning, especially for individuals with asthma. The unpredictability of traffic can be a significant stressor, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

**Public Transit: A Breath of Fresh Air?**

The Broome County Transit (BCT) provides public transportation within Binghamton. Several bus routes serve the 13903 ZIP code, offering an alternative to driving. However, the system's coverage and frequency can be limiting, and travel times are often longer compared to driving.

Several BCT routes, including the **Route 12** and **Route 15**, serve areas within 13903 and offer connections to Wilson Medical Center. **Route 17** provides access to Lourdes Hospital. However, these routes may require transfers, increasing travel time and potential exposure to environmental triggers.

Accessibility is a key consideration. BCT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the availability of these features and the overall accessibility of bus stops can vary. Waiting at bus stops, particularly during extreme weather, can be challenging for individuals with asthma.

The BCT website and mobile app offer real-time tracking and schedule information, which is crucial for planning trips. However, the limited frequency of some routes and the potential for delays can make public transit a less reliable option, especially during an asthma emergency.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Care?**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Binghamton, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical transport services are also available. These services, often contracted by insurance companies or hospitals, provide non-emergency transportation to medical appointments. They can be a valuable resource for individuals with asthma who are unable to drive or use public transit.

The availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can significantly impact healthcare access. The ability to quickly summon a ride to the hospital during an asthma attack can be life-saving. However, the cost, availability, and potential for delays must be carefully considered.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The “Asthma Score” for 13903 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. It is not a simple numerical value but a holistic assessment considering drive times, public transit reliability, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

The score is affected by several factors: the distance to healthcare facilities, the mode of transportation used, the frequency and reliability of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential for traffic congestion and weather-related delays.

For individuals with asthma, the “Asthma Score” in 13903 is moderately challenging. While driving offers the most direct access, the potential for traffic congestion and weather-related delays can be a concern. Public transit offers a viable alternative, but travel times can be longer, and the frequency of routes may be limited. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but their availability and cost must be considered.

**Moving to Binghamton: Considerations for Asthma Sufferers**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Binghamton, the 13903 ZIP code presents a mixed bag. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial amenities, but healthcare access requires careful planning.

Proximity to major highways, such as **NY-17/I-86**, provides relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, but the potential for traffic congestion and weather-related delays must be considered. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services offers alternative transportation options, but their reliability and cost should be factored into the decision-making process.

When considering a move, individuals with asthma should assess their transportation needs, evaluate the accessibility of healthcare facilities, and familiarize themselves with the local transportation options. Researching the BCT routes, understanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and exploring the availability of medical transport services are essential steps.

Moving to Binghamton is a significant life change, especially for individuals managing asthma. A thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape, the availability of healthcare access, and the potential challenges and opportunities can help make the transition smoother and ensure access to timely and effective medical care. The “Asthma Score” for 13903, while not a definitive metric, provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and making informed decisions about moving to this vibrant community.