14620, Rochester, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14620, Rochester, New York is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

88.10 percent of residents in 14620 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland Hospital with a distance of 0.34 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rochester's 14620

The quest for optimal healthcare, especially for individuals managing asthma, necessitates a deep understanding of accessibility. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 14620 in Rochester, New York, delves into the complexities of transportation, highlighting potential barriers and opportunities for those seeking to relocate or simply improve their access to vital medical services. The score isn't a single number but a multifaceted evaluation of how easily residents can reach healthcare providers, considering factors crucial for asthma management: timely appointments, emergency access, and regular medication refills.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is transportation. For residents of 14620, a predominantly residential area, the car remains a dominant mode of transport. The convenience of personal vehicles, however, is often counterbalanced by traffic congestion and the inherent costs of ownership. Therefore, we'll examine driving times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all impacting the Asthma Score.

Driving, of course, is a primary consideration. From the heart of 14620, accessing the major healthcare hubs like Strong Memorial Hospital or Rochester General Hospital typically involves navigating routes that can vary significantly depending on the time of day. A trip to Strong, utilizing **Interstate 490 East**, could take anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Similarly, a journey to Rochester General, likely via **Interstate 490 West** and then **Route 590 North**, could range from 15 to 30 minutes. Rush hour, naturally, amplifies these times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms through increased stress and exposure to vehicle emissions. Smaller clinics and specialized practices located closer to the ZIP code, accessed via local roads like **Winton Road South** or **Culver Road**, offer quicker travel times, often under 10 minutes.

Public transportation, provided by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. Several bus routes serve 14620, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. The **Route 1** and **Route 2** lines provide access to downtown Rochester, where many specialist offices are located. The **Route 10** and **Route 11** lines, traversing key arteries, may connect patients to hospitals and clinics located further afield. However, bus travel times are inherently longer than driving, and schedules may not always align with appointment times. Furthermore, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially posing difficulties for those requiring urgent care or regular medication refills. RGRTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the system, but the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel experience require careful consideration.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient middle ground. They can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, bypassing the complexities of public transit and the costs of owning a car. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. The availability of these services, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas of 14620, can also be variable.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, represent another option. These services often cater to individuals with specific mobility needs, providing door-to-door assistance and specialized vehicles. While offering a higher level of care and convenience, these services typically come with a premium price tag, making them less accessible to some residents.

The Asthma Score for 14620 isn't just about travel times; it's about the overall experience. Factors like the availability of parking at healthcare facilities, the ease of navigating those facilities once arrived, and the ability to secure appointments in a timely manner all contribute to the score. For individuals managing asthma, these factors can significantly impact their ability to adhere to treatment plans and maintain optimal health.

When considering a move to Rochester, or within the city, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape in 14620. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of diverse transportation options, and the overall accessibility of these services are crucial considerations. The Asthma Score framework, therefore, encourages a holistic assessment, moving beyond simple travel times to encompass the broader context of healthcare access.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of transportation options, allowing residents to choose the most appropriate mode based on their individual needs and circumstances. For example, a patient might drive to a routine check-up, utilize public transit for a follow-up appointment, and rely on a ride-sharing service for an urgent care visit. The key is flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

The role of technology is also increasingly important. Telemedicine, for example, can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine follow-ups or medication refills. The availability of telehealth services from local healthcare providers, therefore, becomes another factor in the Asthma Score. Furthermore, online appointment scheduling and prescription refill services can significantly improve convenience and reduce the burden of managing asthma.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 14620 highlights the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access. While driving offers convenience, public transit provides a more affordable option, and ride-sharing services offer a flexible alternative. Medical transport caters to specific needs, and telemedicine offers remote care possibilities. For individuals managing asthma, a thorough understanding of these transportation options, coupled with a proactive approach to healthcare management, is essential for ensuring timely access to care and maintaining optimal health. The ability to navigate these complexities is a critical component of the Asthma Score, ultimately impacting the quality of life for residents of 14620.