13788, Hobart, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 13788, Hobart, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.37 percent of residents in 13788 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is O'Connor Hospital with a distance of 14.27 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hobart, NY (ZIP Code 13788)

The crisp air of Hobart, New York, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, offers a certain allure, especially for those seeking a slower pace of life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of **healthcare access** in this rural landscape demand careful consideration. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 13788, assesses the complexities of **transportation** to healthcare facilities, providing a "COPD Score" to illuminate the challenges and opportunities facing potential residents. This is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Hobart** with COPD.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical constraints. Hobart, a small village, is surrounded by rolling hills and winding roads. The nearest major healthcare providers are located in Oneonta (approximately 25 miles) and Stamford (approximately 15 miles). These distances translate directly into travel time, a critical factor for COPD patients who may experience shortness of breath and fatigue.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

The primary route to Oneonta from Hobart is via New York State Route 28. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. The drive typically takes 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The road quality is generally good, but winter conditions can present significant challenges, including snow and ice, potentially delaying or even preventing travel.

Alternatively, for healthcare in Stamford, residents would typically travel on New York State Route 10. This route, also a two-lane highway, is generally less congested than Route 28 but is more winding and mountainous. The drive time is approximately 25-35 minutes. Again, winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety on both routes.

For those requiring more specialized care, travel to larger cities like Albany (approximately 90 miles) or Syracuse (approximately 130 miles) becomes necessary. These trips, involving a combination of Routes 28, 23, and potentially Interstate 88, can take upwards of two to three hours, making them impractical for routine appointments and exacerbations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Hobart are severely limited. Delaware County Public Transit operates a demand-response service, requiring advance booking. This service, while potentially offering a lifeline, is not specifically designed for healthcare appointments and may not be readily available for same-day needs. The limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking significantly restrict its utility for COPD patients.

There are no fixed-route bus services connecting Hobart to Oneonta or Stamford. This lack of reliable public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** options. The lack of readily available public transit, coupled with the rural landscape, creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without their own means of **transportation**.

**ADA Accessibility:** The Delaware County Public Transit does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service. However, the limited scope of the service and the need for advance booking still present challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence in Hobart is sporadic and dependent on driver availability. Reliance on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments is therefore unreliable. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, particularly for longer distances to Oneonta or Albany.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are available. These services are primarily intended for emergencies or individuals with significant mobility limitations. While they offer a critical safety net, they are not a practical solution for routine appointments or preventative care. NEMT providers, such as MedTrans and FirstCall, may be available, but availability varies and requires prior arrangements.

**COPD Score and Considerations:**

Based on the analysis, the "COPD Score" for ZIP Code 13788 reflects the challenges faced by individuals with COPD. The score is significantly impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for weather-related delays.

The score is also affected by the distance to healthcare providers, the potential for exacerbations requiring immediate medical attention, and the availability of specialized care. The lack of readily available **transportation** options creates a significant barrier to timely **healthcare access**, particularly during emergencies.

**Recommendations for COPD Patients:**

For individuals with COPD considering **moving to Hobart**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. Owning a reliable vehicle is crucial. Developing a comprehensive plan for medical appointments, including pre-booking **transportation** and considering alternative options, is essential.

Establishing a strong relationship with local healthcare providers, including a primary care physician and pulmonologist, is paramount. Exploring the possibility of telehealth appointments, where appropriate, can help reduce the need for frequent travel.

Furthermore, understanding the local emergency services and their response times is critical. Ensuring that emergency contacts are readily available and that a plan is in place for managing exacerbations is essential.

**Conclusion:**

While Hobart offers the tranquility of rural living, the realities of **healthcare access** for COPD patients demand careful consideration. The "COPD Score" highlights the **transportation** challenges, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and a robust support system. For those considering **moving to Hobart**, a realistic assessment of their **transportation** needs and a commitment to proactive healthcare management are crucial for ensuring quality of life.