14548, Shortsville, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14548, Shortsville, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.82 percent of residents in 14548 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Newark-Wayne Community Hospital with a distance of 9.31 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shortsville (ZIP Code 14548)

The air in Shortsville, New York (ZIP Code 14548), whispers tales of rolling hills and fertile farmland. But for residents managing asthma, the journey to breathe easy often involves navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access. This 'Asthma Score' write-up explores the transportation options available, aiming to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care in this rural community. Whether you're a long-time resident or considering moving to Shortsville, understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining optimal health and quality of life.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Shortsville is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The primary arteries for transportation are Route 20A, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and County Road 36, which provides north-south connectivity. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can present challenges during inclement weather, particularly winter's icy grip. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical consideration.

For routine appointments, the Shortsville Medical Center, located within the ZIP code, offers a convenient option. Drive times are minimal, typically under 10 minutes, providing immediate healthcare access. However, for specialized care, residents often must travel to larger medical centers in neighboring towns.

The drive to Thompson Health in Canandaigua, a regional hospital offering a comprehensive range of services, is approximately a 25-30 minute journey via Route 20A. This route, while generally efficient, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours. The drive to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, a major tertiary care center, stretches to roughly 45-60 minutes via Route 20A and the New York State Thruway (I-90). This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.

Public transportation options in Shortsville are limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Ontario County Transportation System (OCTS) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. The closest bus stop to the center of Shortsville is located on Route 20A.

Riders with disabilities should inquire about the availability of ADA-accessible buses and services, as these are crucial for ensuring equitable transportation access. However, the limited frequency and route coverage of the OCTS make it a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for individuals managing asthma.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability in rural communities can be unpredictable. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather may also pose a financial burden. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they are not a guaranteed solution for timely healthcare access, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like Care Ride and MedRide operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and advance booking is often required.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical factor in assessing healthcare access. The Shortsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps provides emergency medical response within the community. Response times are generally good, but the efficiency of EMS depends on factors like road conditions and the availability of volunteer personnel. In the event of a severe asthma attack, timely access to emergency care is paramount.

For individuals considering moving to Shortsville, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. While the community offers a peaceful environment and affordable housing, the limitations in healthcare access necessitate careful planning. Those with asthma should assess their ability to drive or secure reliable transportation. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized medical care, and the reliability of transportation options should all be factored into the decision-making process.

Furthermore, understanding the local healthcare infrastructure is crucial. The Shortsville Medical Center offers primary care services, but specialized care often requires travel to larger medical centers. Knowing the location of these facilities, the drive times, and the availability of transportation options can help individuals proactively manage their healthcare needs.

The 'Asthma Score' for Shortsville, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the community offers a close-knit environment and a local medical center, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

For individuals with asthma, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a local physician, developing an asthma action plan, and identifying reliable transportation options for routine appointments and emergencies. Understanding the nuances of the local transportation landscape, including drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, is vital for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access.

The journey to healthcare in Shortsville, like the rural landscape itself, requires careful navigation. By understanding the available transportation options, residents can proactively manage their health and ensure they receive the care they need, when they need it. This understanding is essential for anyone considering making Shortsville their home and for those already living there, striving to breathe easy and thrive in this charming rural community.