13437, Redfield, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13437, Redfield, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.76 percent of residents in 13437 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lewis County General Hospital with a distance of 22.33 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Redfield, NY (ZIP Code 13437)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding Redfield, NY (ZIP Code 13437), to assess the ease with which residents can access necessary medical services. We will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a COPD Score assessment reflecting the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in this rural community. The goal is to offer a clear picture for residents, especially those considering moving to Redfield, and to highlight potential areas for improvement in transportation infrastructure and healthcare access.

Redfield, nestled within Oswego County, presents unique transportation challenges due to its rural character. The vastness of the area and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located outside the immediate vicinity, demanding a careful evaluation of travel times and available alternatives. A high COPD Score indicates significant obstacles to healthcare access, while a low score suggests a more favorable environment.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary roads serving Redfield are State Route 17 and County Route 23. Travel times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the COPD Score. The closest major hospital, Oswego Health, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions, primarily via State Route 17. This drive can be particularly challenging during winter months, with snow and ice significantly impacting road conditions.

Specialist appointments and more advanced medical care may necessitate travel to Syracuse, approximately an hour and 15 minutes to an hour and a half away, utilizing Interstate 81. This longer commute increases the burden on individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue during travel. The COPD Score is negatively impacted by these extended drive times, especially considering the potential for unexpected delays.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation in Redfield is extremely limited. The Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) provides a demand-response transit service, offering door-to-door transportation within Oswego County. However, the frequency of service and the need for advance booking can pose challenges for individuals with COPD who require immediate or frequent medical attention. OCO buses are ADA-accessible, ensuring they can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The lack of fixed-route bus service significantly impacts the COPD Score. The absence of regular, predictable transit options forces residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles or the limited demand-response service, potentially delaying or preventing access to essential healthcare. The COPD Score is penalized by the absence of robust public transit infrastructure.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have limited presence in rural areas such as Redfield. Availability is often unpredictable, and wait times can be lengthy, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is therefore not a reliable option, negatively impacting the COPD Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more tailored solution. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services can be booked in advance and often offer assistance with mobility, providing a more suitable option for individuals with COPD. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier to access, further influencing the COPD Score.

**Assessing the COPD Score**

Considering the factors discussed above, the COPD Score for healthcare access in Redfield, NY (ZIP Code 13437) is moderate to high. The primary challenges include extended drive times to hospitals and specialized care, limited public transit options, and the unreliable availability of ride-sharing services. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their cost and the need for pre-planning can create barriers.

For individuals with COPD, the transportation challenges in Redfield demand careful consideration. Prospective residents must factor in the time and effort required to access healthcare, especially during emergencies or for routine appointments. The COPD Score reflects the need for proactive planning and the potential for increased reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation services.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

To improve healthcare access for residents with COPD, several strategies could be implemented. Expanding the availability and frequency of the OCO demand-response transit service would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to improve service reliability and affordability could also be valuable.

Furthermore, promoting telemedicine and telehealth services could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management. Supporting initiatives that encourage healthcare providers to establish satellite clinics or offer mobile medical services in Redfield would also be a significant step forward.

For individuals considering moving to Redfield with COPD, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and access to healthcare is crucial. The COPD Score highlights the importance of planning for potential travel challenges and exploring all available transportation options. Consulting with healthcare providers and local transportation services is essential to ensure that medical needs can be met effectively.

**Conclusion**

The COPD Score for Redfield, NY (ZIP Code 13437) underscores the importance of transportation planning and the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals with COPD. By understanding the existing limitations and actively seeking solutions, residents can navigate the complexities of healthcare access and maintain their quality of life. The community could benefit from initiatives that improve public transit, expand telemedicine options, and support medical transportation services. These improvements would ultimately lower the COPD Score and enhance the well-being of residents with COPD.