14416, Bergen, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14416, Bergen, New York is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.66 percent of residents in 14416 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is United Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.79 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bergen, NY (ZIP Code 14416)**

The rustling leaves of Bergen, New York, a community nestled in the Genesee Valley, offer a bucolic charm, a siren song for those seeking respite from the urban clamor. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options within and from ZIP Code 14416, evaluating their impact on individuals with asthma seeking timely medical attention. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Bergen.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities swiftly and reliably. For residents of Bergen, the primary route to healthcare often involves personal vehicles. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in neighboring towns and cities, presenting a challenge for those without personal transportation. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic conditions, weather, and the specific destination.

To reach Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, a major regional healthcare provider, residents typically utilize Route 19 north, merging onto the I-490 East. The drive, spanning approximately 25 miles, can take between 30 to 45 minutes under optimal conditions. However, during rush hour or inclement weather, this commute can easily extend to an hour or more, a critical consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Alternatively, residents can access healthcare facilities in Batavia, a shorter drive. This route involves traveling on Route 19 south, covering a distance of approximately 10 miles. The drive time is usually between 15 to 20 minutes. While closer, the available medical services in Batavia might not always offer the specialized care required for complex asthma cases.

Public transportation options within and from Bergen are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those who do not drive. The Genesee Transportation Council (GTC) provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules are often infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. These services are not specifically designed to cater to healthcare needs, and the travel times may be prohibitive for individuals experiencing an asthma attack.

The primary bus route serving Bergen is the Route 181, which connects to Batavia and potentially offers transfers to other routes. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, with buses running infrequently, making it impractical for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations related to asthma, needs careful consideration. While GTC strives to provide ADA-compliant services, the availability of accessible buses and the ease of boarding and disembarking can vary.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles or public transportation. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent trips to medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing during emergencies, when time is of the essence, is another concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, represent another option. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transport providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they may not be readily accessible in urgent situations. These services often require advance booking, making them unsuitable for sudden asthma attacks.

The "Asthma Score" for transportation in Bergen, NY (14416) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Batavia offers a relatively short drive, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without access to a car. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For individuals considering moving to Bergen with asthma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of personal transportation, the accessibility of public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services. The distance to specialized asthma clinics and emergency rooms, the frequency of medical appointments, and the severity of their asthma symptoms should all be considered.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma-related resources in the community should be investigated. This includes access to pharmacies, asthma educators, and support groups. The presence of air quality monitoring stations and the availability of information on local air quality conditions are also important factors.

The local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and pulmonologists, play a critical role in managing asthma. The accessibility of these providers, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of telehealth options are all important considerations.

The "Asthma Score" for Bergen, NY (14416) is not a simple number. It's a multifaceted evaluation of transportation options, healthcare access, and community resources. For individuals with asthma, a careful assessment of these factors is essential before making the decision to move to Bergen. The goal is to ensure that residents with asthma can access timely and appropriate medical care, allowing them to live a full and active life in this charming community.