13774, Fishs Eddy, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13774, Fishs Eddy, New York is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.17 percent of residents in 13774 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delaware Valley Hospital, Inc with a distance of 13.90 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fishs Eddy, NY (ZIP Code 13774)

The crisp air of Fishs Eddy, New York, nestled in the heart of the Catskills, offers a certain allure. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), however, the beauty of this rural setting must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape in and around ZIP code 13774, focusing on commute times, available public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering a move to Fishs Eddy or seeking to improve their healthcare access while residing there.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the promptness and ease of reaching medical appointments. The ability to swiftly access healthcare is paramount, especially during exacerbations. The COPD Score aims to illuminate the realities of transportation in this specific area, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities.

**Driving Distances and Times:**

The geography of Fishs Eddy presents a significant challenge. The closest major medical facilities are located in Binghamton and Oneonta, both requiring considerable travel. The primary route for accessing these centers is via New York State Route 17, a crucial artery that connects the region. However, Route 17 can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, which is a frequent occurrence in the Catskills.

To reach UHS Binghamton General Hospital, a journey of approximately 50 miles, one would likely embark on Route 17 West. The drive typically takes around one hour and fifteen minutes, but this can easily extend to two hours or more depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey involves navigating winding roads and potential delays, adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

For appointments at Bassett Healthcare Network in Oneonta, a drive of roughly 45 miles is necessary. This route involves a combination of Route 17 West and local roads. The travel time is usually around one hour, but again, this is subject to variability. These drive times, while not insurmountable, pose a considerable burden on individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue during travel.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities exist in the surrounding towns, such as Hancock, NY, which offers a closer option. The drive to Hancock is a more manageable 15 to 20 minutes via local roads, such as County Route 17B, making it a more feasible option for less urgent medical needs.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Fishs Eddy are limited. The Broome County Transit (BCT) system, which serves Binghamton and the surrounding areas, does not directly extend into Fishs Eddy. Therefore, relying on public transit to reach major medical facilities is not a practical solution.

The lack of readily available public transportation presents a significant hurdle for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or who are unable to drive. The absence of regular bus routes or other public transit options necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, potentially increasing the cost and complexity of healthcare access.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. While specific details about ADA-compliant features on any available public transit options are unavailable, the lack of regular routes presents a major barrier to healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver density, which tends to be lower in rural areas. Even if available, ride-share fares can be expensive, especially for longer distances to Binghamton or Oneonta.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Companies like CareRide or local ambulance services may provide this service. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. The availability of these services and their associated costs should be carefully researched.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The transportation challenges in Fishs Eddy significantly impact healthcare access for COPD patients. The long drive times, limited public transit, and potential reliance on expensive ride-share or medical transport services can create barriers to timely medical care.

These factors can lead to delayed appointments, increased stress, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to urgent care during exacerbations are crucial for managing COPD effectively. The transportation limitations in Fishs Eddy can hinder these essential aspects of care.

**Making Informed Decisions: Moving to Fishs Eddy**

For individuals considering a move to Fishs Eddy with COPD, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. A thorough assessment of personal mobility, financial resources, and the availability of support networks is crucial.

Before making a move, prospective residents should investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. They should also explore the potential for utilizing telehealth services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel.

Furthermore, it is vital to understand the local healthcare infrastructure. Knowing the location of nearby clinics, urgent care facilities, and hospitals is crucial. Building relationships with local healthcare providers and support groups can also be beneficial.

**Conclusion:**

The "COPD Score" for transportation in Fishs Eddy, NY (13774) reveals a landscape of challenges. While the area offers scenic beauty and a peaceful lifestyle, the limitations in transportation create significant hurdles for individuals with COPD. Long drive times, the absence of robust public transit, and the potential reliance on expensive ride-share or medical transport services demand careful planning and consideration. For those contemplating a move to Fishs Eddy, a thorough assessment of transportation options, healthcare access, and personal needs is paramount to ensure the best possible quality of life.