14625, Rochester, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14625, Rochester, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.19 percent of residents in 14625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Rochester General Hospital with a distance of 5.13 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 14625

Choosing a new home involves a multitude of factors, and for individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for the 14625 ZIP code in Rochester, New York, focusing on **transportation** options and their impact on reaching essential medical services. It's designed to help prospective residents understand the practicalities of managing their condition within this specific geographic area, a crucial consideration when **moving to Rochester**.

The 14625 ZIP code, encompassing the vibrant neighborhoods of Beechwood and Maplewood, presents a mixed bag of **transportation** possibilities. Its proximity to downtown Rochester offers both advantages and disadvantages when considering the needs of an asthmatic individual. While the area benefits from a relatively dense network of roads, the reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, can present challenges.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries facilitating **transportation** within and around 14625 include the Inner Loop (Route 490), the Genesee Expressway (Route 390), and major thoroughfares like Clifford Avenue and Dewey Avenue. Traveling to the Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating the Inner Loop and then utilizing Elmwood Avenue. During off-peak hours, the drive is usually manageable, taking approximately 10-15 minutes. However, during rush hour, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, this commute can easily stretch to 20-30 minutes, exposing individuals to increased air pollution and stress, both of which can trigger asthma symptoms.

To reach Rochester General Hospital, another significant medical facility, residents would likely utilize Dewey Avenue and then navigate the surrounding streets. This drive is generally shorter, taking around 10 minutes under ideal conditions. However, traffic on Dewey Avenue can be heavy, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times. The presence of stop-and-go traffic, along with the potential for idling vehicles, could exacerbate respiratory issues.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology appointments at the University of Rochester Medical Center, the journey involves similar routes, potentially utilizing the Inner Loop and Elmwood Avenue. The variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning ahead and factoring in potential delays when scheduling medical appointments. The presence of construction zones, which are common in Rochester, can further complicate travel and increase exposure to particulate matter.

**Public Transit: Navigating the RTS Network:**

The Rochester **transportation** system, operated by the Regional Transit Service (RTS), provides a network of bus routes serving the 14625 area. Several routes are particularly relevant for accessing healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, travels along Dewey Avenue, offering direct access to Rochester General Hospital. Route 2, which runs along Clifford Avenue, provides access to various medical offices and clinics. Route 19, servicing Maplewood, offers a connection to the Inner Loop and Elmwood Avenue, thus facilitating access to Strong Memorial Hospital.

RTS buses are generally equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features, making them accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service can vary depending on the route and time of day. During peak hours, buses run more frequently, but during evenings and weekends, the wait times can be considerably longer. This can be a significant disadvantage for individuals with asthma who may require urgent medical attention.

Furthermore, the air quality inside buses can be a concern for asthmatics. While RTS maintains its fleet, the presence of diesel fumes and other pollutants can potentially trigger symptoms. The limited ventilation in some older buses may also exacerbate these issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options in 14625. These services provide on-demand access to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or personal vehicles. The convenience of ride-sharing is particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or who prefer not to drive due to their medical condition.

However, ride-sharing can be more expensive than public transit, and the availability of vehicles can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Furthermore, the air quality inside ride-sharing vehicles can be a concern, as the vehicles may not always be as well-maintained as public transit buses.

Medical **transportation** services, such as AMR (American Medical Response) and other specialized providers, offer non-emergency medical transport for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door service and are equipped with trained personnel to assist with medical needs. However, these services can be costly and may require advance booking.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

The "Asthma Score" for 14625 is a nuanced assessment. While the area offers a reasonable degree of **healthcare access** through a combination of driving, public transit, and ride-sharing options, several factors warrant careful consideration.

The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can increase exposure to air pollution, a known asthma trigger. The variability in drive times necessitates careful planning and scheduling of medical appointments.

Public transit, while accessible, may present challenges related to frequency of service, air quality, and potential exposure to diesel fumes. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be more expensive and may not always guarantee optimal air quality.

The presence of several major healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage, providing residents with a range of options for managing their condition. However, the overall **transportation** landscape requires a proactive approach to mitigating potential risks.

**Recommendations for Asthmatics:**

Individuals with asthma considering **moving to Rochester** and specifically to the 14625 ZIP code should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and preferences. It is recommended to:

* **Assess Drive Times:** Utilize online mapping tools to estimate drive times to healthcare providers during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Explore Public Transit:** Familiarize themselves with RTS bus routes and schedules, particularly those serving their preferred healthcare facilities.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing Options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Consider Medical Transport:** Explore the possibility of utilizing medical **transportation** services for non-emergency appointments.
* **Monitor Air Quality:** Utilize air quality monitoring apps to track pollution levels and plan travel accordingly.
* **Consult with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss their **transportation** needs and preferences with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized asthma management plan.

In conclusion, while 14625 offers reasonable **healthcare access**, individuals with asthma must proactively manage their **transportation** choices. By carefully considering the available options and taking appropriate precautions, residents can mitigate potential risks and maintain their health and well-being within this vibrant Rochester community.