14031, Clarence, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14031, Clarence, New York is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.16 percent of residents in 14031 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upstate New York Va Healthcare System (Western Ny Va Healthcare System) with a distance of 10.02 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clarence, NY (ZIP Code 14031)

Relocating to the charming town of Clarence, New York, presents a wealth of opportunities, from its picturesque landscapes to its vibrant community. However, for individuals managing asthma, a crucial consideration is healthcare access. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 14031, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, ensuring informed decision-making for those prioritizing respiratory health.

The primary factor influencing the Asthma Score is the ease with which residents can access medical care, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. Prompt medical attention is paramount, and the efficiency of transportation plays a significant role in achieving this. The analysis considers drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Clarence, a suburban community, relies heavily on personal vehicles. Driving remains the most direct route to healthcare facilities. From the heart of Clarence, reaching the closest urgent care facility, located on Transit Road, typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary arteries for this journey are Transit Road itself, a major north-south thoroughfare, and Main Street, which intersects with Transit Road.

For those requiring specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, the drive times increase. The journey to the Buffalo Medical Group on Sheridan Drive, a prominent healthcare provider, can take between 20-30 minutes, involving travel on Transit Road, the I-290 (Youngmann Expressway), and Sheridan Drive. Similarly, reaching the John R. Oishei Children's Hospital in downtown Buffalo, a crucial resource for pediatric asthma patients, can take 30-45 minutes, utilizing the I-90 (New York State Thruway) and various city streets.

Public transit, while available, presents limitations for those managing asthma. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) operates bus routes serving Clarence. The primary routes relevant to healthcare access are the #40, which travels along Transit Road, and the #35, which runs along Main Street. These routes connect to the broader NFTA network, offering access to hospitals and medical centers in Buffalo. However, bus travel times are considerably longer than driving, and the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for asthma patients. All NFTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the availability of accessible routes and the potential for delays due to traffic or mechanical issues must be factored into the Asthma Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or for whom driving is challenging. Ride-sharing offers door-to-door service, eliminating the need to navigate public transit or rely on family members. However, ride-sharing costs can be a significant factor, and availability may fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and Rural/Metro, are available for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation. These services provide specialized transportation, often with trained personnel, ensuring patient comfort and safety. While these services offer a valuable resource, they are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical needs and may involve pre-booking and associated costs.

The Asthma Score also considers the presence of pharmacies and urgent care facilities within the community. Clarence boasts several pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, and local options, providing convenient access to medications and asthma management supplies. The aforementioned urgent care facility on Transit Road offers immediate medical attention for acute asthma symptoms.

The quality of air quality within the community is another significant aspect of the Asthma Score. Clarence generally enjoys good air quality, but seasonal variations and environmental factors, such as pollen counts, must be considered. Regular monitoring of air quality indices and adherence to asthma management plans are crucial for residents with asthma.

Moving to Clarence requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that considers individual needs and circumstances. For individuals with mild asthma, the proximity of urgent care facilities and pharmacies, combined with the availability of ride-sharing services, may result in a favorable score. However, for those with severe asthma or limited mobility, the longer drive times to specialized care and the limitations of public transit may necessitate a lower score.

The Asthma Score for Clarence, NY (14031) is moderate. While the town offers access to healthcare facilities and pharmacies, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges for some residents. Careful planning, including identifying preferred healthcare providers, understanding transportation options, and establishing an asthma management plan, is essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access and quality of life.