13751, Davenport Center, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13751, Davenport Center, New York is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 13751 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aurelia Osborn Fox Memorial Hospital with a distance of 8.62 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Davenport Center (ZIP Code 13751)

The air hangs crisp and clean in Davenport Center, New York (ZIP Code 13751), a rural haven nestled amongst the rolling hills of Delaware County. Yet, for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the tranquility of this landscape can be deceptive. The very beauty of the area, its remoteness, presents a significant challenge: accessing timely and reliable healthcare. This write-up assesses the COPD Score, evaluating the ease with which individuals with COPD can access essential medical services, focusing on transportation options from Davenport Center.

The COPD Score considers factors like travel time, transportation availability, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities. It is designed to inform potential residents or current inhabitants about the practical realities of managing a chronic respiratory condition in this specific geographic location. Understanding these transportation limitations is critical for individuals contemplating moving to Davenport Center or for those already residing there who may be experiencing worsening symptoms.

The primary concern for those with COPD is the potential for exacerbations – sudden worsening of symptoms that require immediate medical attention. This necessitates a careful examination of all available transportation options, from personal vehicles to emergency services, to gauge the speed and reliability of healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions**

The primary route out of Davenport Center is via New York State Route 23, a two-lane highway that winds its way east and west. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Oneonta, approximately 20 miles to the east, and Delhi, roughly 20 miles to the west. Under ideal conditions, the drive to either location takes about 30-45 minutes. However, conditions can quickly deteriorate.

Winter weather, common in this region, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make Route 23 treacherous, potentially doubling or tripling drive times. Secondary roads, such as County Route 10, which connects Davenport Center to other towns, are often less well-maintained and more susceptible to hazardous conditions. This is a critical consideration for individuals with COPD, who may be more vulnerable during periods of respiratory distress.

The drive to Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, a more comprehensive healthcare facility, is approximately 45 miles, and requires travel on Route 23 and then Route 28. This journey can take upwards of an hour, further increasing the risk of delays during an emergency. The condition of the roads and the distance to the nearest hospitals are significant factors impacting healthcare access for residents of Davenport Center.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Davenport Center are extremely limited. Delaware County Public Transportation offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is not a regularly scheduled bus route and requires a phone call to arrange transportation. Availability is limited, and scheduling can be challenging, particularly for urgent medical needs.

The demand-response system is required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring vehicles are accessible for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on pre-arranged scheduling and the potential for delays make it a less-than-ideal option for those with COPD experiencing sudden respiratory distress. The lack of readily available public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for residents of Davenport Center.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Davenport Center or the surrounding rural areas. This further restricts transportation options for those without access to a personal vehicle. Reliance on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is not a viable option.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available, but response times can be longer in rural areas. The Delaware County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provides ambulance services, but the distance to the nearest hospital and the potential for inclement weather can impact response times.

Specialized medical transport services, designed to transport patients between facilities or to appointments, are available in the region. These services, such as Rural Medical Transport or Care Ride, offer non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services require pre-booking and are not designed for immediate emergency transport. The availability and cost of these services can be a significant consideration for individuals with COPD.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score**

The COPD Score for Davenport Center (ZIP Code 13751) reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment. The limited transportation options, the potential for weather-related delays, and the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged services create significant barriers for individuals with COPD.

For those considering moving to Davenport Center, it is essential to carefully evaluate the availability of transportation and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The ability to drive, or have access to a reliable driver, is crucial. The availability of a support network to assist with transportation is also a significant factor.

Individuals with COPD who already reside in Davenport Center should proactively develop a plan for managing their healthcare needs. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, having a readily available emergency contact, and understanding the limitations of local transportation options.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Davenport Center requires a multi-faceted approach. Increased investment in public transportation, including expanding the frequency and coverage of the demand-response service, would be beneficial. Promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, or exploring partnerships with existing medical transport providers, could also improve healthcare access.

Furthermore, telemedicine services can play a vital role in bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Expanding access to telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups can help individuals with COPD manage their condition more effectively, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

Finally, community education and awareness programs can help to educate residents about the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. This includes providing information about available transportation options, emergency preparedness, and the importance of proactive healthcare management.

The COPD Score for Davenport Center highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address the transportation and healthcare access challenges faced by individuals with COPD. By addressing these issues, the community can improve the quality of life for its residents and ensure that everyone has access to the care they need. The beauty of Davenport Center should not be overshadowed by the difficulties of navigating its healthcare landscape.