14627, Rochester, New York Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 14627, Rochester, New York is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.40 percent of residents in 14627 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Strong Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.35 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 14627**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. Beyond the emotional and physical toll of the disease, navigating the logistical hurdles of transportation to appointments, treatments, and support services can significantly impact a patient’s well-being and treatment adherence. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 14627, focusing on healthcare access for individuals facing breast cancer, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options.

ZIP code 14627, encompassing a significant portion of the city of Rochester, New York, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Rochester, particularly those with existing or potential healthcare needs. This exploration considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport options, providing a comprehensive overview of healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. In 14627, several major roadways serve as lifelines to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries are the Interstate 490 (I-490), a critical east-west thoroughfare, and the Outer Loop (I-590), which provides north-south connectivity. These highways, while offering relatively swift travel, are susceptible to rush-hour congestion, potentially extending travel times, particularly during peak commuting periods.

Access to Strong Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare hub, from various points within 14627 involves navigating these highways. A drive from the eastern edge of the zip code, perhaps near East Avenue, to Strong Memorial Hospital, typically requires a journey west on I-490, with a potential drive time of 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, reaching Rochester General Hospital, located north of the zip code, often involves using I-590 and driving north, with a drive time also ranging from 10 to 20 minutes.

Navigating local roads, such as Monroe Avenue and Winton Road, can offer alternative routes, but these streets are often subject to traffic lights and local congestion. Understanding these drive times and traffic patterns is essential for planning appointments and ensuring timely arrival at healthcare facilities.

**Public Transit: A Network of Connections**

The Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), operating under the brand name RTS (Regional Transit Service), provides public transportation within 14627. Several bus routes traverse the zip code, offering varying degrees of accessibility to healthcare facilities. Route 1, a key route, connects the city center with the eastern suburbs, passing near Strong Memorial Hospital. Route 7, another critical route, provides access to the University of Rochester Medical Center and surrounding areas.

RTS buses offer ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier to healthcare access. Waiting times can be lengthy, and the potential for transfers can add considerable travel time to appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to public transportation and personal vehicles. Their availability in 14627 provides on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources or frequent appointments. Surge pricing, common during peak hours, can further exacerbate these costs.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than other transportation options.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering the factors discussed above, a "Breast Cancer Score" for 14627 would reflect the following:

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** Moderate. While major highways provide relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, particularly during peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Moderate. RTS provides bus service to healthcare facilities, but frequency, particularly during off-peak hours, and the need for transfers can be a barrier. ADA accessibility is available.
* **Ride-Sharing Accessibility:** Moderate. Uber and Lyft offer convenient on-demand transportation, but cost and potential surge pricing are significant considerations.
* **Medical Transport Accessibility:** Moderate. Specialized medical transport services are available, offering door-to-door service, but they typically require pre-booking and may be costly.

**Overall Score:** The Breast Cancer Score for 14627, based on the above assessment, would be **Moderate**. This score reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While access to healthcare facilities is possible, challenges related to traffic, public transit frequency, cost, and the need for pre-planning can significantly impact the experience of individuals facing breast cancer.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

For individuals residing in or considering moving to Rochester, NY, and specifically to 14627, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, especially for those managing breast cancer. The moderate Breast Cancer Score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of all available transportation options.

Individuals should familiarize themselves with bus routes and schedules, assess the cost and availability of ride-sharing services, and explore the possibility of utilizing specialized medical transport if needed. Planning appointments during off-peak hours, when traffic congestion is less severe, can also help minimize travel times.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with transportation coordination and appointment scheduling, can significantly enhance healthcare access. As Rochester continues to evolve, improvements in public transportation infrastructure, the expansion of ride-sharing options, and increased support for patients with transportation needs will be crucial to improving the Breast Cancer Score and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all residents. This is a vital consideration for anyone moving to Rochester.