14468, Hilton, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14468, Hilton, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.32 percent of residents in 14468 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Hospital with a distance of 8.09 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hilton, NY (ZIP Code 14468)

The crisp air of Hilton, New York, nestled in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, beckons with the promise of a tranquil life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of a new community must be tempered with a pragmatic assessment of healthcare access. This 'Asthma Score' write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options within and around ZIP Code 14468, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of how easily residents can reach essential medical care. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Hilton, factoring in reliable transportation for regular appointments and emergency situations.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably. For residents of Hilton, this often translates to navigating the roadways. The primary arteries for vehicular transportation include the bustling Route 259, a major north-south thoroughfare, and the slightly more leisurely Route 104, providing east-west connectivity. These highways are vital lifelines, connecting Hilton to neighboring towns and the larger healthcare hubs of Rochester.

Driving times to various medical facilities are a critical component of the Asthma Score. For routine appointments, the drive to Unity Hospital in Greece, a common destination for residents, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This journey primarily utilizes Route 104, offering a relatively straightforward route. Strong Memorial Hospital, a major tertiary care center in the city of Rochester, is approximately a 30-40 minute drive, depending on traffic flow. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for those with severe asthma, who might require immediate access to specialized care.

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the drive to specialized clinics or pulmonary specialists in Rochester becomes a more significant consideration. The 490, a major expressway, is often the preferred route, however, its traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours. This can significantly impact the time it takes to reach appointments, potentially exacerbating anxiety for asthma sufferers.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents unique challenges in this suburban setting. The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) provides bus service, but its routes within Hilton are limited. The primary route serving the area is likely the Route 41, which connects Hilton to the city of Rochester. However, frequency is often lower than in urban areas, and travel times are significantly extended compared to driving.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit is a crucial aspect of the Asthma Score. RGRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the extended travel times and potential for crowded conditions can be challenging for those with asthma, especially during peak hours when air quality might be compromised.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, potentially reducing the reliance on personal vehicles or the constraints of public transit schedules. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide a specialized solution. Companies like CareRide or other local medical transport providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services often provide door-to-door service, and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or requiring assistance. This can be invaluable for those who cannot drive or are unable to use public transportation. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly, making them a less accessible option for spontaneous needs.

The Asthma Score must also consider the availability of emergency medical services. The Hilton Fire Department and Monroe County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provide emergency response within the community. Response times are generally good, but the distance to the nearest emergency room (Unity Hospital) remains a factor. In an asthma emergency, every minute counts, and the ability to quickly access advanced medical care is paramount.

Beyond the immediate transportation options, the Asthma Score should also factor in the broader healthcare landscape. The presence of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies within the community is crucial. Hilton has a number of family practices and internal medicine clinics. However, access to specialized pulmonary care might necessitate travel to Rochester. The availability of pharmacies, where asthma medications and supplies can be readily obtained, is also a critical consideration.

Moving to Hilton, therefore, requires a nuanced understanding of its healthcare access. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential for traffic delays on major highways must be carefully considered. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their cost and availability should be factored in.

The Asthma Score for Hilton, NY (14468) would ideally incorporate a weighted assessment of these factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the presence of local healthcare providers would all contribute to the final score. The higher the score, the more accessible healthcare is, and the more suitable the community is for individuals with asthma.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Hilton is a personal one. However, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and the healthcare access it provides is essential for individuals with asthma. This 'Asthma Score' write-up aims to provide the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring that the pursuit of a tranquil life in Hilton is not compromised by inadequate access to essential medical care. Careful planning, utilizing available resources, and prioritizing reliable transportation are key to thriving in this charming Finger Lakes community while managing asthma effectively.