14845, Horseheads, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 14845, Horseheads, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.84 percent of residents in 14845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Arnot Ogden Medical Center with a distance of 5.27 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Horseheads, NY (ZIP Code 14845)

Considering a move to Horseheads, New York (ZIP Code 14845), and managing asthma? This detailed assessment provides an "Asthma Score" evaluating the accessibility of healthcare, focusing on transportation options vital for managing this respiratory condition. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering insights into the ease of accessing medical care, a crucial factor for asthma sufferers. This information is vital for anyone considering a move to Horseheads, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

The "Asthma Score" isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive analysis. It weighs the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities for those living with asthma in this Chemung County community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For many Horseheads residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is critical. The nearest urgent care, Guthrie Corning Hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, primarily via New York State Route 17 (also known as the Southern Tier Expressway) and County Route 64. Traffic is generally manageable, but rush hour (typically 7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:00 PM) can extend travel times, particularly on Route 17.

Specialty care, including pulmonologists and allergists, might necessitate a trip to larger medical centers in Elmira, about a 10-15 minute drive via Route 17 and Interstate 86. Elmira also hosts Arnot Ogden Medical Center, a major regional hospital. Emergency situations require swift transport. The proximity to both Guthrie Corning and Arnot Ogden is a definite advantage.

The availability of pharmacies is another crucial factor. Several pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, are readily accessible within Horseheads, often a short drive via local roads like Main Street or Franklin Street. This proximity is particularly beneficial for refilling prescriptions and obtaining necessary asthma medications.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation in Horseheads is provided by Chemung County Transit (CCT). While not as extensive as in larger urban areas, CCT offers routes that can be useful for accessing healthcare. Route 11, for example, serves the Horseheads area and connects to Elmira, providing access to hospitals and medical offices. Route 11 also connects to the Elmira-Corning Regional Airport.

However, relying solely on CCT presents challenges for asthma sufferers. The frequency of buses might not always align with appointment schedules. Furthermore, the routes may require transfers, extending travel times. CCT does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring access for individuals with mobility limitations, a crucial consideration for those with asthma who may experience breathing difficulties. Checking the CCT website for schedules and route maps is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding the Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Horseheads area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially offering greater flexibility and convenience for medical appointments. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. They can be invaluable for those with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. Researching local medical transport providers and understanding their services is crucial.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands serve the 14845 area. These services are vital for individuals requiring specialized assistance.
* **Care Transportation:** Offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **SeniorCare Transportation:** Specializes in transportation for seniors, including medical appointments.
* **First Transit:** Provides a range of transportation services, including medical transport, and may operate within the area.

**Pharmacies**

* **CVS Pharmacy:** Multiple locations in Horseheads, convenient for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications.
* **Walgreens:** Another readily accessible pharmacy chain in the area.
* **Local Pharmacies:** Consider exploring local pharmacies for personalized service and potentially quicker access to medications.

**Assessing the Asthma Score: A Holistic View**

The "Asthma Score" in Horseheads, NY, is moderate. While the proximity of healthcare facilities, including urgent care and hospitals, is a significant advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles for optimal access is apparent. Public transit offers a viable, albeit limited, alternative. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, enhancing accessibility.

For individuals with asthma, the score reflects a need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs. Living in Horseheads offers good access to healthcare, but it is essential to factor in the potential for longer travel times during peak hours and the limitations of public transit.

**Recommendations for Asthma Management in Horseheads**

* **Establish a Relationship with a Local Physician:** Having a primary care physician familiar with your asthma management plan is crucial.
* **Maintain a Well-Stocked Asthma Action Plan:** Keep your medications readily available, including rescue inhalers and any necessary medications.
* **Explore Transportation Options in Advance:** Familiarize yourself with CCT routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport providers.
* **Plan for Weather Conditions:** Be prepared for potential delays due to weather, especially during winter months.
* **Consider Proximity to Pharmacies:** Choose a residence near a pharmacy for easy access to medications.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Supporting local efforts to improve public transit can benefit the entire community, including those with asthma.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Moving to Horseheads, NY, presents a favorable environment for managing asthma, particularly due to the proximity of healthcare facilities. However, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. By carefully considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about healthcare access and ensure a comfortable and healthy lifestyle in their new community. This detailed assessment provides the necessary information to navigate the transportation challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals to thrive in Horseheads.