14174, Youngstown, New York COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 14174, Youngstown, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.43 percent of residents in 14174 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount St. Mary's Hospital & Health Center with a distance of 6.30 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Youngstown, NY (ZIP Code 14174)

Youngstown, New York, nestled along the Niagara River, presents a unique landscape for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The ability to access healthcare, particularly for those with breathing difficulties, is a critical factor in their quality of life. This write-up, designed as a "COPD Score" assessment, analyzes the transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 14174, focusing on their accessibility and suitability for individuals with COPD. We will examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, offering insights for those considering moving to Youngstown or seeking improved healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Youngstown is undoubtedly the proximity to Niagara Falls and the broader Buffalo-Niagara metropolitan area. However, the reliance on personal **transportation** is significant. For those residing in 14174, the primary route to medical facilities involves driving. The most direct route to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, a key healthcare provider, typically utilizes the Robert Moses Parkway. This scenic route, while offering beautiful views, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and tourist seasons. Drive times average around 15-20 minutes under normal conditions, but can easily extend to 30 minutes or more during rush hour.

For those needing to access specialized care or facilities further afield, the options expand. Heading south on the Robert Moses Parkway will eventually connect to the I-190, the Niagara Thruway. This major highway provides access to Buffalo and its numerous hospitals, including the highly-regarded Buffalo General Medical Center and the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The drive to Buffalo, however, is considerably longer, typically taking 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey can be challenging for individuals with COPD, who may experience breathing difficulties during extended periods of sitting and exposure to car exhaust.

The availability of public **transportation** in Youngstown is limited. The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) operates bus routes in the region, but their service within 14174 is minimal. The primary route serving the area is the #50 bus, which travels along Lake Road, connecting Youngstown to Niagara Falls. While this route offers a potential option for accessing healthcare in Niagara Falls, the frequency of service is limited, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, individuals with COPD need to consider the accessibility of the buses. While the NFTA provides ADA-compliant buses with features like ramps and designated seating, the reliance on public transport can still pose challenges, particularly during inclement weather or when needing to carry medical equipment.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential **transportation** alternative. These services are generally available in the Youngstown area, providing on-demand rides to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips. Moreover, the reliability of these services can vary, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. For individuals with COPD, the ability to schedule rides in advance and communicate specific needs to the driver is crucial.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, are also available in the region. Companies like AMR (American Medical Response) and other private ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are often covered by insurance, but it is important to verify coverage and pre-authorization requirements. The availability of these services in Youngstown is generally good, providing a crucial lifeline for individuals with COPD who cannot drive or utilize public **transportation**.

The location of pharmacies is another important consideration. Several pharmacies, including national chains and local pharmacies, are located in Niagara Falls and are accessible via the Robert Moses Parkway. The ability to conveniently fill prescriptions is essential for managing COPD, and the proximity of these pharmacies is a positive aspect of healthcare access in Youngstown.

Considering the factors outlined above, the "COPD Score" for healthcare access in ZIP code 14174 can be assessed as moderate. While the proximity to Niagara Falls and Buffalo offers access to a wide range of medical facilities, the reliance on personal **transportation** and the limited public **transportation** options present challenges. Individuals with COPD need to carefully consider their ability to drive, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the costs of medical **transportation**.

For those considering **moving to Youngstown**, it is crucial to assess their individual healthcare needs and **transportation** capabilities. While the area offers a pleasant living environment and access to essential services, proactive planning is necessary to ensure seamless access to healthcare. This includes identifying preferred healthcare providers, understanding insurance coverage for **transportation** services, and exploring options for obtaining assistance with **transportation** to medical appointments.

The quality of life for individuals with COPD is directly linked to their ability to access timely and appropriate medical care. The assessment of **healthcare access** in Youngstown, NY, underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach, combining personal **transportation**, public **transport**, and specialized services to ensure that individuals with COPD can receive the care they need. The availability of medical **transportation** services and ride-sharing options provides vital support for those who cannot drive, mitigating some of the challenges associated with limited public **transportation**.