14806, Andover, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14806, Andover, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.17 percent of residents in 14806 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Jones Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.56 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Andover, NY (ZIP Code 14806)

The crisp air of Andover, New York, nestled in the heart of Allegany County, offers a bucolic charm that draws many seeking a quieter life. But for individuals managing asthma, the allure of rural living necessitates a critical assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 14806, evaluating the feasibility of reaching essential medical care, particularly in the event of an asthma exacerbation. This analysis is crucial for prospective residents, including those considering moving to Andover, ensuring their health needs are met.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is rapid access to medical attention. In Andover, the nearest hospitals equipped to handle acute respiratory distress are located in Wellsville, approximately 15 miles south, and Hornell, roughly 25 miles northeast. This distance necessitates a thorough understanding of available transportation options, especially considering the unpredictable nature of asthma attacks.

**Private Vehicle: The Foundation of Mobility**

The most direct route to Wellsville from Andover is via New York State Route 417. This two-lane highway offers a relatively smooth journey, typically taking around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Route 417, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during inclement weather, particularly snow and ice, common in the region.

Accessing Hornell involves a more complex route. One option is to take County Route 17, which intersects with Interstate 86. I-86, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a faster, although potentially longer, travel time to Hornell. The drive, including time on County Route 17, usually takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic flow on I-86.

For those without personal vehicles, the transportation landscape presents a significant challenge. Public transit options are limited in this rural setting, impacting healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

The availability of public transportation in Andover is extremely limited. The primary provider in the region is the Allegany County Transit (ACT). However, ACT's services in Andover are infrequent, primarily focused on demand-response transportation. This means riders must schedule rides in advance, making it impractical for emergency situations.

ACT's routes are not specifically designed for frequent trips to medical facilities. While they may offer transportation to Wellsville or Hornell, scheduling and availability are significant hurdles. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is limited, potentially hindering individuals with mobility challenges. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those unable to drive or without access to a private vehicle.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Andover. The sparsity of population and the distance to larger population centers make it economically unviable for these services to operate regularly. This further restricts transportation options for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are available, but their use comes with its own set of considerations. Ambulance services are reserved for emergencies, and their response times can be affected by the distance to the nearest hospital. NEMT services, while designed for scheduled medical appointments, require prior booking and may not be readily available for sudden asthma exacerbations.

**Assessing the Asthma Score: Factors and Considerations**

The "Asthma Score" for Andover, NY (14806) is significantly impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a barrier for those without them. The lack of robust public transit, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the dependence on pre-scheduled medical transport services, all contribute to a potentially compromised healthcare access.

The drive times to the nearest hospitals, while manageable in ideal conditions, can be significantly affected by weather and traffic, potentially delaying critical medical intervention during an asthma attack.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Andover, careful planning is essential. Prioritizing access to a reliable personal vehicle is paramount. Familiarizing oneself with the routes to Wellsville and Hornell, including alternative routes in case of road closures, is crucial.

Establishing a relationship with local emergency services, including understanding ambulance response times, is highly recommended. Having a clear emergency plan, including designated drivers or alternative transportation options, is vital.

Individuals should also explore the possibility of arranging NEMT services for routine medical appointments, ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Trade-offs**

The allure of Andover's rural tranquility must be balanced against the realities of healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options pose a significant challenge for individuals managing asthma.

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 14806 reflects the need for proactive planning, emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation, readily available emergency services, and a comprehensive healthcare plan. Prospective residents, especially those considering moving to Andover, must carefully weigh these factors to ensure their health and well-being. The ability to rapidly access medical care during an asthma exacerbation is paramount, and the transportation infrastructure in Andover presents a unique set of challenges that require careful consideration. The decision to reside in Andover should be made with a full understanding of these limitations and a commitment to mitigating the risks associated with limited healthcare access.