14779, Salamanca, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14779, Salamanca, New York is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.12 percent of residents in 14779 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Olean General Hospital with a distance of 16.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Salamanca, NY (ZIP Code 14779)

Considering a move to Salamanca, New York (ZIP Code 14779)? This assessment provides a detailed “Asthma Score” focusing on healthcare access, a critical factor for individuals managing asthma. The score considers transportation options, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities for those seeking reliable healthcare within this rural setting. This analysis aims to empower potential residents with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions, particularly concerning healthcare access and its impact on quality of life.

Salamanca, nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, presents unique transportation challenges. The city's relative isolation and limited public transit options necessitate a careful evaluation of healthcare access. The “Asthma Score” will reflect the practicality and efficiency of reaching medical facilities from various points within the 14779 ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents in Salamanca. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the New York State Route 17 (future Interstate 86) and U.S. Route 219. The Salamanca Regional Hospital, the primary healthcare provider, is centrally located, making it relatively accessible for most residents. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the location within the ZIP code and prevailing traffic conditions.

Residents living closer to the hospital, such as those near Wildwood Avenue or Broad Street, can expect drive times of under 5 minutes. However, those residing in more remote areas, like those along the Allegheny River or further north on Route 219, might face drive times exceeding 15 minutes, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. These extended drive times can be a significant concern for individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations.

The road network, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to delays during winter months due to heavy snowfall. This factor further emphasizes the need for reliable transportation and preparedness for potential emergencies. Route 17/I-86 provides access to larger medical centers in Olean (approximately 30 minutes) and Jamestown (approximately 1 hour), offering specialized care options. However, these longer distances necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential travel delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options within Salamanca are limited. The Seneca Nation Transit provides some bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent and primarily serve specific areas. This limits the accessibility of public transit for healthcare appointments. ADA-accessible features are available on some buses, but the overall system is not designed to serve the diverse needs of the population.

The lack of frequent and comprehensive public transit creates a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This limitation disproportionately affects seniors, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities, potentially hindering their ability to access timely medical care. The Seneca Nation Transit's website and local information sources should be consulted for current route information and schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Salamanca, but their availability is often inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in remote areas. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments or urgent care needs. The potential for surge pricing during peak demand can also add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. However, these services are typically reserved for emergencies or individuals with specific medical needs. NEMT services, often provided by private companies, require pre-booking and may have limited availability. This adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access, particularly for those with chronic conditions like asthma.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

The “Asthma Score” for Salamanca, NY (14779) reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to the Salamanca Regional Hospital contribute positively to the score. Longer drive times, especially in adverse weather conditions, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Limited public transit options negatively affect the score. The lack of frequent routes and ADA-accessible features further diminishes the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** Inconsistent ride-sharing availability and potential surge pricing negatively impact the score.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and accessibility of medical transportation services positively influence the score, but the need for pre-booking and potential limitations must be considered.
* **Proximity to Specialized Care:** The distance to larger medical centers in Olean and Jamestown, while offering specialized care, negatively affects the score due to longer travel times.
* **Seasonal Challenges:** The impact of winter weather on road conditions and transportation reliability negatively impacts the score.

**Moving to Salamanca with Asthma:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Salamanca, a proactive approach is essential. Thoroughly research healthcare providers, assess the proximity of your residence to medical facilities, and familiarize yourself with available transportation options.

Consider the following recommendations:

* **Choose a location with convenient access to the Salamanca Regional Hospital:** Prioritize locations with shorter drive times to minimize travel during asthma episodes.
* **Explore the availability of ride-sharing services:** Understand the limitations and potential costs associated with ride-sharing.
* **Investigate medical transportation options:** Identify available NEMT providers and understand their booking procedures.
* **Plan for winter weather:** Prepare for potential travel delays during winter months by having a backup transportation plan and ensuring a sufficient supply of medication.
* **Establish a relationship with a local healthcare provider:** Ensure you have a primary care physician and a pulmonologist who can provide ongoing care and support.
* **Consider the impact of environmental factors:** Be aware of local air quality and potential allergens that may trigger asthma symptoms.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding and improving public transportation options within Salamanca.

**Conclusion:**

Salamanca, NY (14779) presents a mixed bag for individuals managing asthma. While the Salamanca Regional Hospital offers accessible healthcare, the limited transportation options, particularly public transit and ride-sharing, pose challenges. The “Asthma Score” for this area will be influenced by these factors. By carefully considering the transportation landscape, assessing individual needs, and proactively planning for healthcare access, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the challenges and enjoy a fulfilling life in Salamanca. Understanding these complexities is key to ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier but a bridge to well-being.