14612, Rochester, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14612, Rochester, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.55 percent of residents in 14612 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Unity Hospital with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14612

Choosing a new home involves myriad considerations, but for individuals managing asthma, proximity to healthcare and ease of access are paramount. This analysis provides an “Asthma Score” for the 14612 ZIP code in Rochester, New York, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for managing asthma symptoms and ensuring timely medical attention. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility for potential residents. Understanding these factors is vital when considering moving to Rochester, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

The 14612 ZIP code, encompassing areas like the historic Park Avenue neighborhood and parts of the South Wedge, offers a diverse urban landscape. Its proximity to downtown Rochester provides access to various healthcare providers, yet transportation challenges can significantly impact healthcare access. The Asthma Score aims to illuminate these challenges and highlight the available solutions.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many, and understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is essential. The primary arteries serving 14612 are the **Inner Loop (Route 490)**, **Monroe Avenue (Route 31)**, and **South Avenue**. These roads provide direct access to major hospitals and clinics.

Driving to Strong Memorial Hospital, a leading healthcare provider, typically takes 5-10 minutes via the Inner Loop or Monroe Avenue, depending on traffic. The drive to Rochester General Hospital, another major facility, is slightly longer, around 10-15 minutes, usually involving travel on the Inner Loop and either Route 104 or Dewey Avenue. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the area, offering quicker access, often within a 5-minute drive. However, rush hour congestion on the Inner Loop can significantly increase these drive times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms during a medical emergency.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes serve the 14612 ZIP code, including the **1**, **2**, **7**, **11**, and **19**. These routes connect to various healthcare facilities, offering an alternative to driving. However, the frequency of service varies, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The RTS aims to provide ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. This feature is crucial for individuals with asthma who may experience mobility limitations during flare-ups. However, the reliability of public transit can be unpredictable, and long travel times can be a deterrent, especially when dealing with urgent medical needs. The potential for exposure to allergens and irritants on public transit also poses a concern for asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Rochester and offer a convenient transportation option. They provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, bypassing the complexities of public transit or the need for personal vehicle ownership. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs, potentially making this option less accessible for some individuals.

Medical transport services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and Care Ride, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. While providing a valuable service, these options require pre-booking and may not be suitable for sudden asthma exacerbations.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic View**

The Asthma Score for 14612 reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare accessibility. While the area benefits from its proximity to major hospitals and clinics, transportation challenges exist. The reliance on the Inner Loop for access to key healthcare providers means that residents can face delays during peak traffic times.

Public transit offers an alternative, but its limitations in terms of frequency and potential exposure to irritants must be considered. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility but can be costly. Medical transport services offer specialized support but require pre-planning.

**Recommendations for Residents with Asthma:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to or residing in 14612, a thorough understanding of these transportation options is crucial.

* **Prioritize proximity:** Choose housing within a short distance of essential healthcare facilities, ideally within a 5-10 minute drive.
* **Explore public transit:** Familiarize yourself with RTS routes and schedules, and utilize ADA-accessible features if needed.
* **Embrace ride-sharing:** Keep ride-sharing apps installed and ready for use, especially during emergencies.
* **Plan for medical transport:** Consider pre-booking medical transport services for regular appointments.
* **Develop a contingency plan:** Have a backup plan in place for transportation during peak hours or inclement weather, including a designated driver or readily available ride-sharing options.
* **Consider air quality:** Research air quality data for the area and take steps to mitigate exposure to triggers, such as pollen or pollution.

**Conclusion:**

The 14612 ZIP code offers a mixed bag of transportation options for individuals with asthma. While the area boasts access to excellent healthcare facilities, navigating transportation challenges requires careful planning and awareness. By understanding the intricacies of drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, potential residents can make informed decisions and ensure timely access to healthcare, ultimately improving their quality of life. The Asthma Score serves as a guide, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and make the best choices for their needs when moving to Rochester.